Hey there, fellow fantasy enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to talk about an interesting topic that often gets overlooked in our beloved genre: racism among humans in fantasy novels. Yeah, you heard that right. We’re not talking about the classic tensions between elves, orcs, dwarves, and other fantastical races. Instead, we’ll be focusing on how fantasy authors have tackled racial discrimination among humans within their stories. It’s kind of ironic that racism seems to take a backseat in many fantasy worlds, as if it only exists in our reality, right? Well, let’s dive into 10 novels where racism among humans plays a significant role in the story, and see how these authors have approached this complex issue.
1. The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin
In N.K. Jemisin’s The Fifth Season, part of the Broken Earth trilogy, we see a world filled with discrimination based on an individual’s ability to wield the power of orogeny. This power allows people to manipulate the earth and seismic activity. In this world, orogenes are treated as lesser beings and face constant prejudice from those without these abilities. Jemisin uses this discrimination to explore themes of power dynamics, oppression, and resistance.
N.K. Jemisin masterfully interweaves themes of racial prejudice and discrimination with a story of survival, love, and loss. The book is set in a world where systemic racism is deeply ingrained, affecting not only the lives of the characters but also literally shaping the very landscape of the society they inhabit. The novel also highlights the resilience of marginalized communities in the face of adversity, and the power of unity and cooperation to challenge oppressive systems. Jemisin’s compelling storytelling and intricate world-building invite readers to reflect on the parallels between the fictional world of the Stillness and our own, emphasizing the importance of confronting and dismantling racism in all its forms.
2. Half A King by Joe Abercrombie
In Half a King, Joe Abercrombie spins a gripping tale of betrayal, vengeance, and the pursuit of power. The story follows Yarvi, a young prince born with a crippled hand, who must navigate a brutal world filled with prejudice and discrimination. Throughout his journey, Yarvi encounters different cultures and societies, with racism playing a significant role in the world-building and character development.
Abercrombie skillfully examines the complexities of racism and its impact on individuals and communities, all within a richly imagined fantasy setting. The novel serves as a reminder of how prejudice and discrimination can permeate even the most fantastical of worlds, urging readers to reflect on these issues and their relevance in our own lives.
3. The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora is a thrilling fantasy novel set in a city inspired by Venice. The city is divided into distinct districts, each inhabited by different social classes and ethnic groups. Racism plays a significant role in the story, as the protagonist, Locke Lamora, navigates the complex social hierarchy, encounters various forms of discrimination, and forms alliances with characters from different backgrounds. Through the novel’s vivid portrayal of societal divisions and prejudices, Lynch encourages readers to think about the real-world implications of racism and discrimination.
4. An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
Sabaa Tahir’s An Ember in the Ashes is a gripping story set in a brutal, oppressive world inspired by ancient Rome. The novel explores the devastating effects of racism and discrimination through its two main characters, Laia and Elias. Laia, a member of the oppressed Scholar class, struggles to survive and rescue her brother, while Elias, a soldier from the ruling Martial class, grapples with the injustices his people perpetrate. Tahir masterfully highlights the impact of racial and social divisions on both individual lives and society as a whole.
5. The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
In R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War, readers are taken to a world inspired by 20th-century China, where different human ethnic groups vie for power and influence. The protagonist, Rin, is a dark-skinned war orphan from the impoverished south, who faces discrimination and prejudice in her quest for knowledge and power. As Rin navigates the complexities of her society, Kuang explores themes of racism, colonialism, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The Poppy War is a powerful examination of how racism can shape individual lives, and the fate of entire nations.
6. The Broken Empire Trilogy by Mark Lawrence
Mark Lawrence’s The Broken Empire Trilogy is a dark and gritty fantasy series that follows the ruthless and cunning protagonist, Jorg Ancrath. In this post-apocalyptic world, various human ethnic groups struggle for dominance and survival. Racism and prejudice are common, as different cultures clash and vie for power. Lawrence masterfully weaves themes of racism, power dynamics, and the often brutal nature of humanity into a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
7. The Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan
The Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClellan is set in a world where magic and technology coexist, and where humans are divided into different social and racial groups. This series tackles themes of racism, social inequality, and the consequences of prejudice through the eyes of its diverse characters. As the story unfolds, readers witness the impact of racism on individual lives, as well as the broader implications for society. McClellan’s skillful exploration of these themes adds depth and complexity to this captivating fantasy series.
8. The Inheritance Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin
N.K. Jemisin’s The Inheritance Trilogy delves into a rich and complex world where gods and mortals coexist. In this setting, human societies are divided along racial and cultural lines, and the series examines the impact of racism on its characters and the world at large. Jemisin’s powerful storytelling and nuanced exploration of racial dynamics make this series a compelling read for fans of fantasy who are interested in themes of social justice and equality.
The Inheritance Trilogy not only delves into the intricacies of racial discrimination, but also explores themes of power dynamics, colonization, and cultural identity. Jemisin’s rich and complex world-building allows for a nuanced portrayal of the various ways in which race and prejudice can impact individuals and communities. Her characters are beautifully crafted, each with their own struggles and journeys that force them to confront the biases and prejudices ingrained in their world. By addressing these challenging topics through a captivating narrative, Jemisin invites readers to contemplate the real-world implications of racism and the importance of understanding and empathy in overcoming it.
9. Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse
Rebecca Roanhorse’s Trail of Lightning is a thrilling post-apocalyptic fantasy novel that takes place in a world ravaged by climate change. The story centers around Maggie Hoskie, a monster hunter of Dinetah, the Navajo Nation’s homeland. The novel tackles issues of racism, prejudice, and cultural appropriation, as Maggie navigates a world where her people and culture are often misunderstood and marginalized. Roanhorse’s unique perspective and vivid storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in a fresh take on fantasy that also addresses important social issues.
In Trail of Lightning, Roanhorse weaves Navajo mythology and culture into the narrative, creating an immersive and richly detailed world. The exploration of racism and cultural erasure is a central theme, as Maggie encounters characters who hold prejudiced views and attempt to exploit her culture for their own gain. This timely and thought-provoking novel not only entertains but also encourages readers to reflect on the importance of respecting and understanding the diverse cultures that make up our world.
10. The Power by Naomi Alderman
Naomi Alderman’s The Power is a speculative fiction novel that imagines a world where women suddenly gain the power to emit electrical shocks, altering the balance of power between genders. While the novel primarily focuses on gender dynamics, it also touches on issues of race and racism. As power structures shift, characters of various racial backgrounds are forced to navigate a new and unfamiliar world.
The Power’s exploration of race and racism is a subtle but important part of the narrative, highlighting how the struggle for power and control can manifest across different social hierarchies. Alderman’s novel invites readers to consider how a shift in power dynamics might impact not only gender relations but also racial dynamics, encouraging reflection on our own world’s complexities and challenges.
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In conclusion, the fantasy genre has a lot to offer when it comes to exploring themes of racism and discrimination among humans. These ten novels showcase a variety of ways in which authors have tackled this important and complex issue, offering readers both entertainment and food for thought. By diving into these stories, we can gain a greater understanding of the impact of racism and prejudice on individuals and societies, and perhaps even take steps towards a more just and equitable world.
So, if you’re a fantasy fan looking to explore these themes or simply want to expand your reading list, don’t hesitate to pick up one of these engaging and thought-provoking novels.
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