Portrayal of Realism and Fantasy in Children Fiction - Essay Example

? The Portrayal of Realism and Fantasy in Children’s Fiction The Portrayal of Realism and Fantasy in Children’s Fiction Introduction Books play a very significant role in children’s life. They enhance children’s emotional, cognitive and behavioral skills, also enhance child development and take them to a journey of fantasy, giving moral lessons, understanding and empathy among individuals of the society. For these reasons, it is necessary to introduce such books in schools where these attributes can be retained in the children starting from a small age. Novels and book play a significant role on the development of their consciousness and approach to view the world. This document highlights the portrayal of liberalism and fantasy in children’s fiction novels “Christmas Carol” and “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” (Adsit, 2011). Realism and Fantasy in Literature Realism refers to a truthful aspect of life which are put forward after observations of different facts and features of events taking place in the life. In literature, realism is an approach, which describes the understanding of life without a subjectivity of an ideal life, fantasies or romantic interests. These realistic approaches are the product of all the influential bodies pertaining in everyday life and they are placed specially among the lower and middle classes of the society. The social factors of the environment play a very significant role in realistic literature. The psychological elements of individuals are also examined in realistic approach in the literature (Villanueva, 1997). Realism in literature emphasizes on proper documentation of the events, which are taking place, with an insight of all sociological aspects and details of facts and figures of life. There are few elements, which are avoided like poetic diction and melodrama in this approach and the subjects’ issues of lower middle class families of societies are elaborated. (Stoodt, 1996) Fantasy, on the other hand depicts such characters which may not be real, they can vary from fairy tales as well as about demons that take us on a journey of imagination and metaphysical form of literature (Horne, 2011). Most of the Science fiction tales come under this category. The metaphysical literature deals with such subjects which can be supernatural and the characters will inhibit traits of super natural beings like dragons and wizards, fairies or vampires (Miller, 1997). Hence, the fantasy literature incorporates such super natural or unrealistic notions, which may provide an understanding of the structural elements and characteristic features taking place in such setting. (Schmitz, 2008) Most of people enjoy fantasy because of the concepts underlined in the structure of this kind of literature (Hudson, James, & Christopher, 2003). People are more inclined towards the theories in literature, which depict good against evil, magic and demons and explore concepts, which in reality may not be of any use but may have a profound impact on how a person perceives the situation. (James & Mendlesohn, 2012) Studies of Realism and Fantasy Literature in Schools In order to keep children focused on realities of life and the impact of realistic events in the lives of a common man, it is necessary to introduce realism in literature in studies by introducing novels which are depicting which can have a positive impact in their upbringing and development (Adams, 1990). However, practically speaking the idea of realism in fiction novels may differ in different people (Klemmer, Anoop, Chen, Landay, & Aboobaker, 2000). The depiction various scenarios by writers may be perceived differently because there are cases when a realistic event may seem illusory to one person and realistic to another (Wolf, Coats, & Enciso, 2010). Exploration is required in terms of confusion of such realism in literature so that there is understanding of literature as a basic course in children’s school to promote learning through fictional tales. (Cart, 2010) The major advantage of introduction of fantasy novels lies on the fact that, through these studies, exploration of different behaviors and events can be taken place without be confined to the boundaries of real world (Kearns, 1996). Through the depiction of fiction characteristics the children can provide a fresh new perspective on different things (Mikkelsen, 2005). Most of this fantasy literature can depict universal truth of understanding the behaviors of different individuals by using characters that are supernatural (Amp & Black, 2013). In most of the cases, the use of fantasy novels are more introduced in schools so that children can relate to subjects other than that of the realistic and ordinary experience of a common man. (Reginald, 2011) Characteristics of a realistic and fantasy fiction In order to depict realism in course works in schools, it is necessary to relocate children’s literature from an idealistic view to the real life events occurring in the world. The basic characteristic features of such fiction require characters that are engaging with the problems, which are honestly portrayed (Burger, 2010). The theme of the literature should grow with the plot and setting, with emphasis on actions of the characters in their story. The story should reflect the culture and social issues, which are perceived believable in the setting they are residing in. Objective writing is necessary in these tales but should not promote or dictate moral or ethical belief. There can be some violence, to make a moral understanding and not for sensationalism (Villanueva, 1997). There are many characteristic features of a good fantasy novel depicting literature with gripping topics like stories relating to courage, good, evil and greed that portray different behaviors. One of the essential characteristics of such literature is involvement of a myth. The experiences portrayed may not be realistic, they can be enigmatic and a world in recreated to explore new supernatural influences (Habegger, 1982). Analysis of Two Children’s Novels The two novels, which I have taken, that have a profound impact in the history and tradition of children in schools are, “Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens and “ The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by Lyman Frank Baum. Both are fictional writings, which provide an indicative moral standing of socio-cultural aspects in the society. “Summary of Christmas Carol” The novel, “Christmas Carol” is written by Charles Dickens, is one of the finest books used in the literature of children in schools. The story is about a miserly old man by the name of Ebenzer Scrooge who is only concerned with work and minting money (Littlefield, 1967). This is a very intense tale of a person who was very selfish and regarded Christmas or other occasions as meaningless and wastage of time. However, while he was resting in his apartment later one night, he encounters the three ghosts, in his dreams, which completely transformed him into a new person. Scrooge had an old friend and partner, Jacob Marley, who was dead. When he was alive, he was a miser like Scrooge. The novel reveals depiction of selfish characteristics of two selfish people, Scrooge himself and Marley who comes in his dream in heavy chains and as a punishment he was condemned to wander the Earth. In his dream, Marley wants to warn Scrooge of the consequences of his actions that may share the same fate as himself. He informs Scrooge that he will meet three ghosts. He wakes up shortly, and finds himself facing the Ghost of Christmas Past. This ghost travels back in time with Scrooge and takes him into a journey of his past, where he visits his school days and the people who were present in his life at that time. The ghost of the past makes him see, his lustful side for money and greediness, which led him to break his engagement and relationships. Scrooge undoubtedly moved, by this venture and returned back in his bed, but soon another ghost arrived, the ghost of the present. (Dickens, 2011) The Ghost of Christmas Present takes Scrooge towards the hustling, bustling of the events of Christmas that were happening at that time of the year. Scrooge see’s Bob Cratchit, his clerk with his crippled son, Tiny Tim and his hearted swells with love for the courage and humility he saw in their eyes. The ghost takes Scrooge to visit his own nephew who was rejoicing for Christmas festivities. Scrooge seems delightful to see this overwhelming happiness of the festivities and asks the ghost to stay with him longer. Scrooge sees starved children and suddenly the ghost vanishes and notices another specter approaching him. The arrival of ghost of Christmas Yet to Come completely astounds him. This ghost takes him to an era where a dead man is being discussed, the riches and wealth that he accumulated over time. He sees people who appear happy to hear about the man’s death and makes him curious to find the name of the dead man who was spoken of, so unkindly. Scrooge finds himself at the graveyard and went into a shock after seeing his own name written on the gravestone. He was completely taken aback to see that it was he, who was so condemned by people. Scrooge realizes his mistakes, for being so insensitive to people and makes a vow that he would leave his old ways and start living with compassion. All of a sudden Scrooge finds himself back in his apartment, tucked in bed. These events had a deep impact on him and he hurriedly rushed out happily and announced his new found spirit of the festivities and humility and love for people. Scrooge no longer regarded wealth significant instead he provided lavish gifts for the poor and shows compassion and kindness among his fellow beings. (Dickens, 2011) Summary of ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is written by L. Frank Braum, which was first published in 1900. The novel has been illustrated by W. W Denslow and has been reprinted numerous of times under the same name. The novel is an allegory ad metaphor for political, economic and social events of America 1980’s (Littlefield, 1967). The author has associated different characters with the real life events. The story started with when the little farm girl (Kansas), Dorothy Gale and Toto her dog is blown away with tornado. They find themselves in the fairyland called Oz, here they come across unusual characters like Tin Woodman, Scarecrow and Cowardly Lion. Along with them they go to quest to see the Wizard of Oz to accomplish their desires (Rockoff, 1990). In the journey they come across Yellow Brick Road a series of obstacles and then they finally arrive at The Emerald City. They get to know there that if they want to fulfill their grants and wish the Wizard kill the Wicked Witch (Johanna, Hamalainen, & Turkki, 2004). In order to kill the witch they come across several difficulties and dangerous challenges, they all together dispose the Wicked Witch of the West but on the return they realize that the Wizard is a humbug. Therefore, Dorothy and her friends travel to Glinda to seek help of the Good Witch of the South. Significance of “Christmas Carol’ in the history and traditions of children’s literature” “Christmas Carol” has a very significant place in the history of children’s literature because at the time when this book was written, the author Charles Dickens, emphasized on transforming the shallow society in 1840’s where the indebt people were supposed to live at poor houses and they were oppressed. In this novel, the transformation of cruel character into a forgiving and compassionate person enables the children’s literature from that time to present, to provide inspiration for charitable causes and revival of Christmas spirit and traditional festivities associated with it. (Trim, 2004) “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” plays a significant role to understand historical event of 1980’s (Flanagan, 1996). The novel is based on the real socio-political event of America; it represents the influential political reform movement that focused on the monetary reforms to create a progressive and flourishing economy, it aimed to support the farmers, small businessmen and other middle-class groups who suffered after the post-war. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz allows children to understand the significance of the historical events of 1980’s. The events and characters parallel the archetypes and theme that clearly associated with the life and political event experience in Gilded Age America. Key debate: Conception of Child reader While reading this book, children can be sought to explore the fairy tale or gothic features of ghosts, which are having an impact on the life of the miser, transforming him completely. Through this reading, the child reader can become vigilant about the harmful effects of selfishness and greed, which meet a destructive fate. Even though the literature contains few elements of fantasy but children will be able to relate to the plot and characters, which are being portrayed by the author. (Hobsbaum, 1998)The story has a sentimental value with features of social injustice prevailing in the society (James & Mendlesohn, 2012). A child reader of the literature will have a concept that will include values of family life, kindness and also spiritual growth which can explore its historical and literary understanding of issues in the society. However, this is a debatable topic as few critics argue that the concept of the reader may be subject to change with time and the readers may perceive the tale as an exaggerated piece. (Guida, 2006) Moreover, the transformation of the character can be a temporary one which could be revocable. The series of events that take place during the night are the main cause of concern to the children in changing their outlook and moral understanding towards kindness, selflessness and being emphatic towards people. For readers the Scrooge’s character is placed in a literary and historical perspective of the era where there was injustice prevailing for poor people. ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ portrays the reality more than fantasy (Johanna, Hamalainen, & Turkki, 2004). Unlike, other tales the story portrays realistic approach through different imagination. It develops children’s consciousness to understand the magic, equality, self-confidence and independency (Mikkelsen, 2005). The colorful depiction and the wonders of Oz develop children to enhance their ambitions and set objectives in their life. According to Leonard Everett Fishers “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” is “a timeless message from a less complex era, and continues to resonate”. It allows children to be strong and fight back challenges of life fearlessly (Adams, 1990). Furthermore, Baum gave an opportunity for the children to discover the magic in the everyday lives (Guida, 2006). In addition, the story illustrates feminist protagonist, which eliminates gender discrimination among the children. The novel is affective source for the children to understand the real values of life; it encourages children to face the challenges fearlessly. Social Cultural Significance as literary artifacts and as an educational tool The novel “Christmas Carol” explores the ignorance of rich class of the society. At that time when author Charles Dickens in London, saw that the British government changed the welfare system for poor people and they were supposed to work hard on treadmills and work houses (Adams, 1990). The story has very significant place in social cultural events pertaining in that era as it is focused on two themes, social injustice and poverty. (Christ & Jordan, 1995)While going through the plot and events taking place it is noticed that the major focus was on the awareness of these issues to people so that the need of social and political change can be brought in people’s mind. This aspect of the story places a very significant part of literature artifact which are now included as a course subject in schools. (Pettit, 2011) This book is widely used as a major course of literature in schools for primary students, as it provides a basic understanding between good and evil, greed and humility. Children can understand right and wrong easily and the consequences of bad behavior while studying the book (Christ & Jordan, 1995). It is easier for children to associate themselves with the character in the book; hence, it can be used as a literary subject and as an educational tool in schools. (Dicken, 2011) Similarly like “The Christmas Carol”, the Wonderful Wizard of Oz does not portray fantasies and royal lifestyle (Dicken, 2011). Perhaps the plot of the novel reflects the real life, it develops concerns for the children to protect and secure the poor and mediocre people. The theme of the story depicts the social changes that took place in 1980’s; it is more inclined to demonstrate American society more than British culture (Adams, 1990). The language, costumes, lifestyle and culture in the novel is sanctioned on the American popular culture, as it teaches to become distinct and assimilate from through its imaginations and ambitions (Dicken, 2011). The Wizard of Oz is said to be a novel for ‘all ages’ as it narrative offers readers to define how it is to grow up in America (Johanna, Hamalainen, & Turkki, 2004). The character of Dorothy shows the journey of a child to grow mature; it associates the growth of Dorothy with the growth of America. According to the Flanagan (1996) ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ reflects the life of metropolis lifestyle through the Yellow Brick and the Emerald City showing a urban life (Flanagan, 1996). “Christmas Carol” to motivate children to become lifelong readers The book, “Christmas Carol” is a fictional novel, an excellent reading for children eight years old and up, the story is inspiring, contains a series of events which completely engrosses a reader to read it till the end, the character comprises of realistic traits and the plot is intriguing. This book can play a very significant role as a literary subject in schools as it is providing lessons and consequences of bad behavior, which are necessary for children to learn in school. Besides this, there are many versions of this book, with colorful illustration of ghosts, which can motivate child readers into reading (Adams, 1990). There are many dramas, plays and movies, which are made which can inspire the youngsters to go towards reading. The emotional side of “Christmas Carol” has won hearts of the readers and they get inclined towards reading such novels with interest. Reference List Amp, A., & Black, C. (2013). The Reception of Charles Dickens in Europe. New York: bloomsbury Academic. Adams, B. P. (1990). About Books and Children: Historical Survey of Children's Literature. Michiagin: Holt. Adsit, T. L. (2011). Small Schools, Education, and the Importance of Community. New York: R&L Education. Burger, A. (2010). The Wizard of Oz as American Myth: A Critical Study of Six Versions of the Story, 1900-2007. North Carilona: McFarland. Cart, M. (2010). Young Adult Literature: From Romance to Realism. American Library Association. Christ, C. T., & Jordan, J. O. (1995). Victorian Literature and the Victorian Visual Imagination. Los Angeles: University of California Press. Dicken, A. C. (2011). Grace Moore. 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