In recent years, the representation of LGBTQIA+ characters in literature has gained significant momentum, particularly within the fantasy genre. Fantasy literature, known for its imaginative worlds and boundless possibilities, provides an ideal platform to explore diverse identities and experiences. The inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters and themes not only enriches these stories but also reflects the evolving nature of our cultural understanding of identity, love, and self-expression.
At the same time, cultural mythologies have always played a pivotal role in shaping fantasy narratives. From the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece and Norse tales to the spirits and legends of African, Asian, and Indigenous mythologies, these rich traditions provide a foundation for complex and captivating worlds. The merging of these mythologies with LGBTQIA+ themes offers unique opportunities to explore identity, transformation, and acceptance in ways that resonate with contemporary readers.
This article will delve into some of the top LGBTQIA+ fantasy books inspired by cultural mythologies, highlighting how authors weave elements of ancient legends into modern narratives, offering diverse characters and stories that celebrate both myth and identity. Whether you’re a lover of fantasy or looking for diverse representation in your reading, these books offer a thrilling journey through the intersection of mythology and LGBTQIA+ experiences.
The Importance of Mythology in Fantasy Literature
Cultural mythologies have long been a rich source of inspiration for fantasy literature. These mythologies, passed down through generations, encapsulate the values, fears, dreams, and imaginations of societies across the globe. The stories of gods, heroes, legendary creatures, and epic quests provide a fertile ground for authors to build intricate worlds filled with magic, mystery, and wonder. Whether drawing from Greek, Norse, Egyptian, Asian, or Indigenous traditions, fantasy authors often turn to these ancient tales to construct complex narratives that resonate with readers on both an emotional and intellectual level.
Mythological elements are integral to fantasy literature, serving as the foundation for the world-building that defines the genre. From pantheons of gods who shape the world’s fate to mythical creatures that guard ancient secrets, these elements infuse the narrative with a sense of the supernatural and the divine. Legendary quests, where protagonists must overcome impossible odds or unlock ancient mysteries, are often modeled on mythological archetypes like the hero’s journey or the descent into the underworld. These tropes are familiar, yet they allow for endless creative reinterpretation in the hands of skilled authors.
The significance of integrating LGBTQIA+ themes into these mythological frameworks is both powerful and transformative. Mythologies have long been a reflection of the complexities of human nature, often exploring themes of identity, power, love, and conflict. By incorporating LGBTQIA+ characters and experiences into mythological narratives, authors can reframe traditional myths in a way that aligns with contemporary values of diversity and inclusivity. Many mythologies themselves feature characters who challenge conventional gender roles or engage in same-sex relationships, offering a foundation for modern authors to build on.
For example, in ancient Greek mythology, relationships such as that between Achilles and Patroclus, or the love between gods like Apollo and Hyacinthus, were part of the cultural fabric. By reimagining these stories with LGBTQIA+ protagonists at the center, authors can make these mythological themes more relatable and resonant for today’s readers, while also providing space for more varied expressions of love, identity, and belonging. This not only broadens the scope of fantasy literature but also allows LGBTQIA+ readers to see themselves reflected in the stories of gods and heroes, empowering them to connect with these universal themes on a deeper level.
In short, mythology offers a rich, multifaceted backdrop for fantasy literature, one that is flexible enough to accommodate the full spectrum of human identity and experience. By weaving LGBTQIA+ narratives into these mythological traditions, authors not only breathe new life into ancient stories but also help to shape the future of fantasy literature in ways that reflect a more inclusive and diverse world.
Top LGBTQIA+ Fantasy Books Inspired by Cultural Mythologies
In this section, we will explore five exceptional LGBTQIA+ fantasy novels that are deeply inspired by diverse cultural mythologies. These books not only feature rich world-building and fascinating characters but also bring to life mythological elements from different traditions, blending them seamlessly with LGBTQIA+ themes.
“The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon
Overview of Plot and World-Building: Set in a sprawling world where dragons rule the skies, The Priory of the Orange Tree is an epic fantasy novel that draws from a variety of mythological traditions, particularly Asian and European mythologies. The novel is set in a world divided between kingdoms that worship different deities and cultures, including a dragon-riding matriarchy in the East and a kingdom in the West that faces an impending dragon apocalypse. The world-building is immersive, with dragons, elemental magic, and ancient prophecies playing central roles in the story’s unfolding.
LGBTQIA+ Representation: The book is notable for its positive and diverse representation of LGBTQIA+ characters. One of the main storylines involves the relationship between Tané, a dragon-rider from the East, and her complex feelings toward a fellow female warrior. Another central LGBTQIA+ character, the mage Ead Duryan, is also involved in a romantic relationship with a woman. These relationships are depicted with sensitivity and depth, exploring the complexities of identity, love, and loyalty in a world that is still figuring out how to define power and morality.
Mythological Elements: Shannon integrates dragons as both mystical creatures and symbols of divine power, deeply rooted in mythological traditions. The concept of elemental magic, linked to the elements of fire, water, and air, adds a layer of connection to natural forces. Ancient prophecies drive much of the action, setting the stage for heroic quests and the clash between good and evil, mirroring the epic scale of classic mythological tales.
“A Song of Wraiths and Ruin” by Roseanne A. Brown
Overview of Plot and World-Building: Set in a world inspired by West African mythology, A Song of Wraiths and Ruin introduces readers to a rich, vibrant universe filled with powerful deities, spirits, and ancient magic. The novel follows Malik, a refugee seeking vengeance for his family, and Karina, a princess on a journey to revive her mother’s soul. Their paths intersect when Malik is forced to kidnap Karina as part of a dangerous pact to save his sister. Their quest is intertwined with spirits, gods, and blood magic, and the stakes are high as the fate of their world hangs in the balance.
LGBTQIA+ Themes: The story centers on the developing relationship between Malik and Karina, and although their bond begins as one of survival and tension, it grows into something deeper. Both characters experience a journey of self-discovery, with Malik exploring his queerness and Karina challenging the expectations placed upon her as a princess. The book is an exciting exploration of LGBTQIA+ themes, where love, desire, and loyalty are tested by their world’s supernatural forces.
Mythological Elements: Brown’s novel is heavily influenced by West African spiritual beliefs, featuring deities that embody nature’s forces and wraiths that have the power to control life and death. The world-building is filled with rituals, magic, and powerful spiritual beliefs, making it a thrilling blend of folklore and fantasy. The use of ancestral magic and divine intervention plays a significant role in the characters’ destinies.
“The Gilded Wolves” by Roshani Chokshi
Overview of Plot and World-Building: Set in an alternate history during the French Revolution, The Gilded Wolves is a fast-paced fantasy novel that incorporates elements of mythology from various cultures, including European and Egyptian traditions. The story follows a group of thieves who are on a mission to uncover powerful artifacts tied to ancient magic. They navigate the glamorous, opulent world of Parisian society while unraveling secrets about magic, history, and their own identities.
LGBTQIA+ Representation: The book is notable for its diverse representation of LGBTQIA+ characters, particularly through the character of Enrique, who grapples with his feelings for another male character. The novel offers an insightful look at the complexity of queer relationships, identity, and belonging, all set against the backdrop of a thrilling heist. The romance is woven into the larger story of self-discovery and the search for truth.
Mythological Elements: Chokshi infuses the narrative with mythological references, such as the use of the Egyptian god Anubis and the concept of cursed artifacts imbued with magical power. Themes of fate and divine intervention are explored through the relics the characters seek, often tying back to ancient myths and the idea that the past is never truly gone but continues to shape the present.
“Wicked Saints” by Emily A. Duncan
Overview of Plot and World-Building:Wicked Saints is a dark fantasy novel that draws heavily on Slavic and Eastern European mythology, exploring themes of religion, power, and revolution. The story follows Nadya, a cleric who can speak to the gods, and her journey to stop a war that threatens her world. Along the way, she encounters a prince and a soldier who are drawn into the conflict, each struggling with their personal demons and the tension between duty and desire.
LGBTQIA+ Representation: The novel features LGBTQIA+ themes through the complex and evolving relationship between Malachiasz and Nadya. Their bond is fraught with tension, both romantic and emotional, highlighting the dangers and complications of love in a world consumed by war and divine politics. Wicked Saints doesn’t shy away from exploring how identity and desire can coexist with the broader forces of fate and destiny.
Mythological Elements: The book draws inspiration from Slavic mythology, with gods and magical rites playing a central role in the plot. The gods of the world are active participants in the lives of the characters, and their influence is felt in the magic they wield and the powers they challenge. The use of ancient rites and magical systems inspired by folklore adds depth and intrigue to the narrative.
“The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
Overview of Plot and World-Building: Set in a whimsical world where magical children live in isolated orphanages, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heartwarming and thought-provoking fantasy. The story follows Linus Baker, a by-the-book government worker who is sent on a special assignment to a mysterious orphanage. There, he meets a group of magical children and their enigmatic caretaker, Arthur, and begins to question his rigid beliefs about love, family, and acceptance.
LGBTQIA+ Themes: At the heart of the book is the romance between Linus and Arthur, which develops gently and beautifully. The narrative focuses on themes of love, acceptance, and what it means to belong, with LGBTQIA+ characters at its core. The relationship between Linus and Arthur is tender and transformative, showcasing the power of love to change lives and challenge prejudices.
Mythological Elements: The book is inspired by whimsical and classic mythological themes, where magical creatures and beings are central to the plot. These beings are not just magical—they represent diversity, individuality, and the possibility of creating chosen families. The world itself feels like a blend of myth and reality, where magic exists in everyday life and shapes the destinies of its inhabitants.
These five novels showcase the brilliant blending of LGBTQIA+ themes with rich mythological elements, creating worlds where identity, love, and destiny intertwine in magical and meaningful ways. Whether inspired by African, European, Slavic, or classic mythical traditions, these books offer diverse, inclusive narratives that push the boundaries of fantasy literature while celebrating the richness of cultural mythologies.
Why Cultural Mythologies Make a Perfect Backdrop for LGBTQIA+ Stories
Cultural mythologies have long provided a deep well of inspiration for storytellers, offering the flexibility to explore complex themes of identity, transformation, and nonconformity—central issues within the LGBTQIA+ community. By drawing from these ancient traditions, authors can reimagine and reinterpret mythological tales to reflect and explore the diverse experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. This intersection not only allows for richer, more inclusive narratives but also provides opportunities to challenge long-held cultural norms and offer fresh perspectives on what it means to love, be loved, and exist in the world.
The Flexibility of Mythologies to Explore Themes of Identity, Transformation, and Nonconformity
Mythologies, by their very nature, are flexible and adaptable. The gods and heroes within these stories often embody multiple facets of human experience, including the fluidity of identity and the transformative power of love and change. These characteristics make mythological frameworks perfect for exploring LGBTQIA+ themes, where identity is often not fixed, and the journey toward self-discovery and self-acceptance is a central narrative.
In many mythological traditions, gods and magical beings undergo transformations that challenge or break traditional boundaries. For example, Greek mythology is rich with stories of gods changing genders, forms, or even relationships—such as the story of Hermaphroditus, the son of Hermes and Aphrodite, who was born as a male and later transformed into a hermaphrodite. This malleability of form is a powerful metaphor for the experiences of individuals who do not fit into conventional gender norms or sexual identities. By reimagining these stories with LGBTQIA+ characters at the center, authors can celebrate the freedom of self-expression and the beauty of transformation—both physical and emotional.
The ability of mythologies to explore transformation also speaks to the experience of growth and change in the LGBTQIA+ journey. Many queer individuals experience significant transformations in how they perceive themselves and their place in the world. By placing LGBTQIA+ characters in mythical settings, authors can draw on the metaphors of metamorphosis, growth, and rebirth, creating narratives that mirror the process of personal evolution and acceptance.
The Role of Mythical Creatures and Gods as Metaphors for LGBTQIA+ Experiences
Mythological creatures, gods, and magical beings are often symbolic of the complexities of human nature, power, and desire. These beings frequently transcend human limitations, existing in multiple forms, embodying dualities, or existing outside traditional norms. This makes them ideal metaphors for LGBTQIA+ experiences, where identities and desires may not conform to societal expectations.
For example, many mythological beings, such as shapeshifters, tricksters, and multi-gendered gods, are able to break the rules of nature, much like how LGBTQIA+ individuals may challenge the rules of society and culture regarding gender and sexuality. Gods like the Greek goddess Artemis, who is often depicted as an independent, asexual figure, or Loki, the Norse god who changes gender and shape, illustrate nonconformity and fluidity in ways that resonate with LGBTQIA+ stories. These figures act as metaphors for the fluidity of gender and sexual identity, showing that even in ancient mythologies, there were challenges to the fixed binaries that society imposes.
Similarly, mythical creatures like dragons, phoenixes, and other shapeshifters symbolize the ability to transcend one’s previous form, offering a powerful image of transformation. These creatures are often reborn, redefined, or given the ability to live outside the constraints of their initial identity—an act that mirrors the lived experiences of many LGBTQIA+ people who may experience a process of “rebirth” or a shift in identity over time.
The divine nature of gods and mythical beings also allows them to serve as symbols of power and autonomy. LGBTQIA+ individuals, often marginalized in society, can look to these figures as representations of their own strength and ability to overcome societal oppression or personal challenges. Gods and creatures that transcend mortal limitations become powerful symbols of liberation and resistance, showing that individuals who defy societal expectations can also be powerful and heroic.
The Potential for Reimagining Traditional Stories to Challenge Heteronormative Structures
One of the most exciting aspects of integrating LGBTQIA+ themes into mythological settings is the opportunity to challenge and rewrite traditional narratives that have long been dominated by heteronormative structures. Myths, many of which were passed down through patriarchal and heteronormative societies, often depict love, heroism, and family life in strictly binary and heterosexual terms. By reimagining these stories with LGBTQIA+ characters, authors have the chance to not only give visibility to marginalized identities but also to challenge the assumptions underlying traditional mythologies.
For instance, many mythological tales feature gods who have relationships with both men and women or who engage in sexual activities that don’t align with modern heteronormative norms. By revisiting these stories, authors can emphasize the fluidity of love and attraction, showing that these experiences are not confined to one narrow narrative. In Greek mythology, for example, there are numerous instances of same-sex relationships between gods, heroes, and mortals that are often overlooked in traditional retellings. Rewriting these myths with contemporary LGBTQIA+ characters at the forefront allows authors to reclaim and celebrate these complex relationships, offering new, inclusive narratives that defy the traditional boundaries of heteronormativity.
Additionally, the reinterpretation of mythological archetypes such as the “hero’s journey” or the “tragic love story” can be expanded to include LGBTQIA+ experiences. The hero’s journey, traditionally centered on heterosexual male protagonists, can be reimagined with LGBTQIA+ heroes who navigate their own quests for identity, acceptance, and love. This challenge to heteronormative structures allows LGBTQIA+ individuals to see themselves represented as central characters in epic stories of self-discovery, love, and triumph, encouraging greater inclusivity within the genre.
In conclusion, cultural mythologies provide an incredibly flexible and rich backdrop for exploring LGBTQIA+ themes. The fluidity and transformative power of mythological beings, the symbolic significance of gods and creatures as metaphors for LGBTQIA+ experiences, and the opportunity to reimagine traditional stories all contribute to a narrative space where LGBTQIA+ identities can be celebrated, explored, and integrated into stories that have historically excluded them. By drawing on these ancient tales, authors can create new mythologies that reflect and honor the diverse spectrum of human identity, love, and transformation, making mythology an ideal canvas for telling modern LGBTQIA+ stories.
How LGBTQIA+ Characters Are Redefining Fantasy Archetypes
Fantasy literature has long relied on a set of archetypal roles—heroes, villains, sidekicks, and mentors—that help structure stories and guide character development. However, as the genre evolves, these traditional archetypes are being redefined and reimagined through the lens of LGBTQIA+ characters. By centering queer identities in roles traditionally reserved for cisgender and heterosexual characters, these stories offer fresh perspectives on love, identity, and courage. LGBTQIA+ characters are breaking free from restrictive norms, challenging expectations, and offering empowering new takes on classic tropes.
Breaking Down the Traditional Fantasy Tropes: Heroes, Villains, and Sidekicks
In classic fantasy, the “hero” is typically a cisgender, heterosexual male who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, often facing off against a villain—usually another male character—who represents an evil force. The “sidekick” often serves to support the hero, typically a loyal companion who contrasts with the hero’s personality and enhances the narrative’s dynamic. These roles, while effective in many stories, have been limited by heteronormative structures that center on traditional gender and sexual dynamics.
However, LGBTQIA+ characters are transforming these archetypes in several ways:
- Heroes Redefined: The “hero” archetype is expanding beyond the stereotypical cisgender, heterosexual male protagonist. LGBTQIA+ characters are now taking center stage as heroic figures who embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, bravery, and defiance. These heroes may not fit neatly into traditional gender or sexual molds, yet they display the same qualities of courage, determination, and resilience as their predecessors. The inclusion of queer heroes allows readers to see themselves reflected in the central role of the narrative—where their identity, love, and personal struggles are as vital as any other hero’s journey.
- Villains with Complexity: The villain in fantasy stories is often portrayed as an antagonist whose personal desires or moral failings clash with the protagonist’s goals. Traditionally, villains are almost always straight and cisgender, serving as foils to the hero’s virtues. However, by introducing LGBTQIA+ villains or anti-heroes, authors can explore the complexities of these characters, humanizing them in ways that make their motivations more nuanced. LGBTQIA+ villains may not simply be evil for the sake of evil; they can embody themes of rejection, societal pressure, and self-loathing, or perhaps fight for causes that conflict with the hero’s ideals, offering readers a more multifaceted view of “good” and “evil.”
- Sidekicks with Agency: Sidekicks have often been sidelined in fantasy, taking secondary roles in the hero’s journey. Now, LGBTQIA+ characters are stepping into sidekick roles with their own depth and significance. These characters are no longer just there for comic relief or to provide support to the hero—they have their own motivations, struggles, and identities. In many cases, they may even become the heart of the story, challenging and reshaping the definition of what it means to be a secondary character.
The Empowering Effect of Having LGBTQIA+ Characters in Roles Traditionally Reserved for Straight or Cisgender Characters
One of the most empowering aspects of LGBTQIA+ representation in fantasy is the subversion of traditional roles. In a genre where heterosexuality and cisgender identities have dominated, seeing LGBTQIA+ characters take on heroic, villainous, and sidekick roles can be incredibly validating for queer readers. It affirms that these characters, no matter their gender or sexual identity, are just as capable of facing down monsters, saving the world, or grappling with moral dilemmas as any cisgender, heterosexual character.
For instance, when LGBTQIA+ characters are cast in heroic roles, it sends a powerful message: that queer people are not only deserving of love and happiness but are also capable of great feats, heroism, and growth. These characters help dismantle the idea that being queer makes someone less heroic or less worthy of leading a story. Similarly, having LGBTQIA+ characters as villains or anti-heroes provides an opportunity to explore how queer identity can be linked to resistance, subversion, and personal struggle, making these characters complex and layered in ways that go beyond stereotypes.
This representation also empowers readers by validating their own experiences and allowing them to see themselves in a broader array of roles. Whether queer readers identify with the hero, the sidekick, or the villain, the presence of LGBTQIA+ characters in these roles can affirm that they, too, can be powerful, complex, and central to the narrative of their own lives.
Examples from the Books Listed Above: New Perspectives on Love, Identity, and Courage
Several of the books listed in this article offer fresh takes on traditional fantasy archetypes, showing how LGBTQIA+ characters are redefining what it means to be a hero, villain, or sidekick.
- “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon: In this novel, we see a wide range of LGBTQIA+ characters, such as Ead Duryan and Tané, who defy traditional gender roles and expectations. Ead is a strong, capable woman who plays a central role in the fight against evil, while her love for another woman is depicted with nuance and depth. The heroic role traditionally occupied by men in many epic fantasies is taken up by these female characters, showing that strength, courage, and leadership come in many forms, not just the traditional cisgender, heterosexual male archetype.
- “A Song of Wraiths and Ruin” by Roseanne A. Brown: Malik, one of the protagonists, is a complex character who navigates his feelings toward both men and women, offering a rich portrayal of queer identity in a high-stakes, magical world. His journey of self-discovery and bravery in the face of impossible odds provides a refreshing take on the hero’s journey. At the same time, Karina, the princess, redefines what it means to be a strong and vulnerable woman in a position of power. Their evolving relationship challenges the standard narrative of heterosexual love and highlights the complexity of queer identities within a mythologically rich world.
- “The Gilded Wolves” by Roshani Chokshi: Enrique, a key member of the heist crew, is openly queer and plays a vital role in the plot, providing both emotional depth and strength. His relationship with another character is central to his development, and his journey challenges traditional notions of romantic love and loyalty. The book uses its diverse, complex characters to explore the theme of identity and how personal desires intersect with broader historical and magical conflicts.
- “Wicked Saints” by Emily A. Duncan: Malachiasz and Nadya’s relationship is one of the most intriguing elements of the story, blending romantic tension with moral ambiguity. As characters grappling with love, power, and personal destiny, they break the mold of traditional fantasy heroes and villains, offering readers a complex portrayal of identity and desire in a world filled with divine politics and magical rituals.
- “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune: Linus and Arthur’s love story redefines the romantic arc in a fantasy novel. Rather than focusing on external battles or epic quests, the novel explores personal growth and the power of love to heal and transform. The story challenges the idea that fantasy must always revolve around grand, world-altering events, and instead highlights the quiet, powerful ways in which love and connection can be heroic.
In conclusion, LGBTQIA+ characters are redefining traditional fantasy archetypes by taking on heroic, villainous, and sidekick roles that challenge and expand the boundaries of gender and sexual identity. By doing so, these characters offer fresh perspectives on love, identity, and courage, providing empowering narratives that validate the experiences of queer readers and offer new dimensions to the fantasy genre. Whether as central figures or supporting players, LGBTQIA+ characters are reshaping the landscape of fantasy, ensuring that their stories are not only seen but also celebrated.
Conclusion
Representation in literature is not just about visibility; it’s about validation, connection, and the power of seeing oneself reflected in the stories that shape our imaginations. In the realm of fantasy literature, LGBTQIA+ characters are playing a crucial role in reshaping the genre, offering fresh perspectives on age-old themes of identity, love, and heroism. The incorporation of cultural mythologies adds an extra layer of depth, weaving together the richness of diverse traditions with the vibrancy of modern queer narratives. These stories remind us that mythology is not fixed—it can be transformed, reimagined, and expanded to include all identities, regardless of gender or sexuality.
LGBTQIA+ fantasy books inspired by cultural mythologies are not just challenging traditional narratives; they are rewriting the rules of what fantasy can be. By blending the timeless magic of myths with queer representation, these books create a space where readers can see themselves as heroes, villains, sidekicks, and everything in between. The power of myth is that it can evolve, and in doing so, it opens up new possibilities for storytelling and representation.
As we look toward the future of fantasy literature, it’s clear that LGBTQIA+ characters and mythological influences will continue to shape and define the genre in exciting and transformative ways. These books offer a vision of fantasy that is not only inclusive but also a celebration of the diversity of the human experience—reminding us that the magic of stories lies in their ability to evolve and adapt to the world we live in.
We encourage you to dive into the books listed above, exploring the rich worlds they create and the LGBTQIA+ characters who lead them. Whether you’re drawn to epic battles, tender romances, or transformative journeys, these books offer something for every reader. And if you have your own favorite LGBTQIA+ fantasy books that are inspired by cultural mythologies, we’d love to hear your recommendations! Share them in the comments or with your fellow readers, and let’s continue to celebrate the diverse voices and stories that make fantasy literature so magical.
