Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response

Abstract

Fantasy may be criticized for its lack of practicality or its denial of reality. However, beauty and creativity are parts of creation to be used and enjoyed by mankind before, and fantasy is a valid expression of that creativity. Escapism is an unavoidable and not strictly sinful human activity, and fantasy escapism may even be of spiritual benefit to a Christian. The dangers present in fantasy escapism are exclusive neither to the genre nor the practice, but rather rest in sinful motivation. A heavenward focus and thanks given to God for fantasy can arm the Christian consumer against sin while engaging fantasy.