Beyond Ben Wang: Identity and Power in Modern Fantasy Literature

Published on: May 16, 2025

Beyond Ben Wang: Redefining Identity and Power in Contemporary Fantasy

The landscape of contemporary fantasy literature is a vibrant and evolving tapestry, woven with threads of diverse cultures, complex identities, and shifting power dynamics. While acknowledging the foundational contributions of earlier writers, including the undeniable influence of figures like Ben Wang, it’s crucial to examine how modern authors are pushing the boundaries of the genre, forging new paths and exploring uncharted territories. This article delves into the ways contemporary fantasy is moving 'Beyond Ben Wang,' focusing on the intricate themes of identity and power, representation, and the subversion of traditional tropes.

Acknowledging the Foundation: The Legacy of Ben Wang

Before venturing into the new horizons of contemporary fantasy, it’s important to acknowledge the shoulders upon which these narratives stand. Writers like Ben Wang, and others from the mid-20th century, established crucial elements of the genre: intricate world-building, epic quests, and the classic battle between good and evil. These works, while significant, often reflected the socio-cultural norms of their time, sometimes resulting in limited representation and stereotypical portrayals. Recognizing these limitations allows us to appreciate the progress and innovation of contemporary authors.

Reclaiming Identity: Beyond the Chosen One Trope

One of the most significant shifts in contemporary fantasy is the re-evaluation and subversion of traditional tropes, particularly the 'Chosen One' narrative. While the 'Chosen One' (think Harry Potter or Luke Skywalker) was once a staple, modern authors are increasingly exploring alternative narratives that prioritize collective action, community, and the power of ordinary individuals. This allows for a more nuanced exploration of identity and agency.

Collective Agency: Instead of a single hero, stories now often feature diverse ensembles working together to overcome challenges. This emphasizes the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives.
Flawed Heroes: Modern protagonists are often flawed, vulnerable, and relatable. They grapple with internal conflicts and make mistakes, making them more human and less idealized.
Everyday Heroes: Some narratives entirely abandon the 'Chosen One' trope, focusing instead on the extraordinary acts of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

By moving away from the singular heroic figure, contemporary fantasy opens up possibilities for exploring a wider range of identities and experiences. This allows for a more inclusive and representative narrative landscape.

Power Dynamics: Challenging Traditional Hierarchies

Traditional fantasy often reinforces existing power structures, with clear hierarchies and established social orders. Contemporary fantasy, however, is actively challenging these dynamics, exploring themes of oppression, resistance, and the struggle for liberation. Authors are questioning who holds power, how it is wielded, and what the consequences are for those who are marginalized.

Decolonization and Anti-Imperialism: Many contemporary fantasy novels grapple with the legacy of colonialism and imperialism, exploring the impact of these forces on marginalized communities and challenging the dominant narratives of power.
Social Justice and Equality: Themes of social justice, equality, and human rights are increasingly prevalent in contemporary fantasy. Authors are using their stories to raise awareness about issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and ableism.
The Power of the Oppressed: Contemporary fantasy often highlights the resilience and agency of those who are oppressed, showcasing their ability to resist injustice and fight for a better future.

This exploration of power dynamics extends beyond simple good versus evil narratives, delving into the complexities of social systems and the ways in which power can be both abused and used for positive change.

Representation Matters: Diverse Voices and Perspectives

One of the most significant advancements in contemporary fantasy is the increasing representation of diverse voices and perspectives. Authors are actively working to create characters and worlds that reflect the richness and complexity of the real world, challenging the historical dominance of white, male, heterosexual narratives.

Characters of Color: Contemporary fantasy is increasingly featuring characters of color in leading roles, challenging the assumption that fantasy worlds are inherently white.
LGBTQ+ Representation: Authors are creating LGBTQ+ characters and relationships that are nuanced, complex, and authentic. This representation is crucial for normalizing LGBTQ+ identities and challenging heteronormative assumptions.
Disability Representation: Contemporary fantasy is beginning to explore disability in a more nuanced and respectful way, creating characters with disabilities who are not defined solely by their disabilities.
Neurodiversity: Inclusion of neurodivergent characters, reflecting the reality of diverse cognitive styles and perspectives.

This increased representation is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating a more inclusive and equitable narrative landscape where everyone can see themselves reflected in the stories being told.

Worldbuilding Beyond Tropes: Cultural Influences and Innovation

Contemporary fantasy is also characterized by its innovative and imaginative worldbuilding. Authors are drawing inspiration from a wider range of cultures, mythologies, and historical periods, creating worlds that are rich, diverse, and unique. They are moving beyond the traditional European-inspired settings that have dominated the genre for so long.

Non-Western Influences: Authors are drawing inspiration from African, Asian, Indigenous, and other non-Western cultures to create unique and compelling fantasy worlds.
Blending Genres: Contemporary fantasy often blends genres, incorporating elements of science fiction, horror, and other genres to create innovative and hybrid narratives.
Ecological Themes: Many contemporary fantasy novels address environmental issues, exploring the relationship between humans and nature and the consequences of ecological destruction.

This willingness to experiment with worldbuilding allows authors to create narratives that are both entertaining and thought-provoking, exploring complex themes and challenging readers to think differently about the world around them.

Examples of Contemporary Fantasy Pushing Boundaries

Several authors and works exemplify the trends discussed above:

N.K. Jemisin's The Broken Earth trilogy: Explores themes of oppression, environmental destruction, and the resilience of marginalized communities in a unique and compelling fantasy world. Features complex characters of color and challenges traditional power structures.
Tamsyn Muir's Gideon the Ninth: A dark and witty blend of science fiction and fantasy with a strong focus on LGBTQ+ representation and unconventional characters.
Rivers Solomon's An Unkindness of Ghosts: A science fiction novel that draws heavily on fantasy tropes to explore themes of race, class, and mental health in a dystopian society. Features a neurodivergent protagonist.
S.A. Chakraborty's The Daevabad Trilogy: Inspired by Islamic mythology and history, this trilogy offers a rich and nuanced portrayal of a diverse fantasy world.
Rebecca Roanhorse's Black Sun: Inspired by pre-Columbian Americas, this epic fantasy novel explores themes of identity, power, and cultural conflict.

These examples demonstrate the breadth and diversity of contemporary fantasy and the ways in which authors are pushing the boundaries of the genre.

The Future of Fantasy: A Continued Evolution

The evolution of fantasy literature is an ongoing process. As society changes and new voices emerge, the genre will continue to evolve and adapt. The trends discussed in this article—reclaiming identity, challenging power dynamics, prioritizing representation, and innovating with worldbuilding—are likely to continue shaping the future of fantasy.

One can expect to see:

More diverse and inclusive narratives: A continued push for greater representation of marginalized communities and a wider range of perspectives.
More complex and nuanced characters: Characters who are flawed, relatable, and morally ambiguous.
More politically engaged stories: Fantasy novels that grapple with real-world issues such as climate change, social justice, and political polarization.
More innovative and experimental worldbuilding: Worlds that are inspired by a wider range of cultures and that blend genres in unexpected ways.

By embracing these trends, contemporary fantasy can continue to be a powerful force for social change, challenging readers to think critically about the world around them and inspiring them to create a more just and equitable future.

Conclusion: Forging New Paths in Fantasy

Contemporary fantasy has moved significantly 'Beyond Ben Wang,' embracing diversity, challenging traditional tropes, and exploring complex themes of identity and power. By amplifying marginalized voices, subverting established hierarchies, and innovating with worldbuilding, modern authors are creating a more inclusive, relevant, and thought-provoking genre. The future of fantasy is bright, promising even greater diversity, complexity, and innovation in the years to come. As readers, it is our responsibility to seek out these stories, support these authors, and continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of fantasy literature.

It's also important to understand the influence of other factors. Modern technology, social media, and the internet allow greater interaction between readers and authors. This interaction encourages dialogue and feedback, which can lead to greater creativity and improved stories.

In summary, moving beyond the work of prior generation figures is essential for contemporary fantasy's continued growth. By embracing diverse voices and perspectives, contemporary authors can create stories that are relevant, engaging, and thought-provoking for modern audiences. The potential is limitless, and the journey is just beginning.