Discussing Politics in Mordor: Subversion, Critical Distance, and Multicultural Fantasy Literature for the Antiracist Classroom

• In Event: 60.069 - Critical Engagements With Graphic Novels and Fantasy Texts

Abstract

Fantasy literature written by people of color, or multicultural fantasy, is beginning to blossom in terms of critical recognition and increased readership though it is largely absent from scholarly inquiry. While the texts are growing in popularity, they still remain absent from classroom that would benefit from their inclusion, particularly the anti-racist classroom. This position paper argues for the viability of multicultural fantasy literature as a tool for anti-racist pedagogy. Particular focus is spent on fantasy literature’s dual tension between the subversive aspects of the text and the critical distance the text affords when engaging with difficult issues of privilege and systemic racism. This dual tension helps circumnavigate some of the typical resistance found in anti-racist classrooms.

Author

• Bevin Roue, Michigan State University