Fantasy has always been a genre of boundless imagination, transporting readers to worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. Throughout its history, fantasy has explored themes of heroism, destiny, and the battle between good and evil. However, for much of its existence, it largely centered on heteronormative narratives, leaving queer identities in the shadows.
Representation in media plays a crucial role in shaping cultural perceptions and fostering inclusivity. For LGBTQ+ individuals, seeing themselves reflected in fantasy worlds validates their existence and offers a sense of belonging in stories that transcend reality. Over the decades, the genre has slowly evolved, shifting from implicit queer subtext to more explicit and celebrated representations of diverse identities.
This journey has been marked by struggles, breakthroughs, and triumphs, as writers and readers alike have pushed for authentic portrayals of queer characters. From allegorical storytelling in early fantasy to the flourishing of LGBTQ+ voices in contemporary works, queer representation in fantasy has transformed into a rich and essential part of the genre’s landscape.
The Early Years: Queerness in Subtext (Pre-20th Century – Mid-20th Century)
For much of the pre-20th century, society’s rigid norms around sexuality meant that any portrayal of queerness in literature, especially in fantasy, had to be veiled or hidden. Explicit queer representation was largely absent due to laws, censorship, and cultural taboos that stigmatized LGBTQ+ individuals. As a result, writers often resorted to subtle, indirect forms of queer expression, using allegory, subtext, and coded characters to suggest alternative sexualities or gender roles.
In these early works, queerness often appeared as an undercurrent rather than a central theme. Many characters who could be interpreted as queer were depicted in ways that allowed readers to infer their identities without overtly stating them. This meant that fantasy novels often used symbolism, ambiguity, and metaphor to address themes of desire and identity in a way that was both covert and accessible to those who might read between the lines.
One example of this is the way queer subtext appears in classic fairy tales and myths. Many of these stories, such as The Little Mermaid or Sleeping Beauty, deal with themes of transformation, identity, and the breaking of societal norms, elements that can be interpreted as subtle references to queer experiences. These tales often feature characters who defy traditional gender roles, and in the case of The Little Mermaid, the theme of unrequited love and self-sacrifice can be read through a queer lens.
Another example is Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray (1890). Though not explicitly about queerness, the novel explores themes of vanity, sexual desire, and moral corruption, which Wilde subtly layers with queer undertones. The relationship between Dorian Gray and Lord Henry Wotton, with its intense emotional and intellectual connection, is often analyzed through a queer perspective, even though Wilde had to mask his own identity under the strict codes of his time.
These early instances of queerness in fantasy and literature often required readers to engage in interpretation and reading between the lines, highlighting the tension between artistic expression and societal constraints. While queer characters and themes were not openly acknowledged, these works laid the groundwork for the later inclusion of more direct and visible representations of LGBTQ+ identities in fantasy fiction.
The Underground Movement: 1970s–1990s
The 1970s to the 1990s marked a period of significant social change, with the rise of the feminist and LGBTQ+ movements pushing for greater visibility and acceptance. These movements had a profound impact on fantasy literature, gradually shaping the genre to reflect a more inclusive and diverse range of identities. However, despite these advancements, mainstream fantasy literature still struggled with overt queer representation, and the presence of LGBTQ+ characters remained limited and often coded.
As LGBTQ+ activism gained momentum, the demand for more diverse and inclusive narratives grew. This led to the emergence of indie and underground publications that featured queer themes. Small presses and self-published works began to explore LGBTQ+ stories, offering marginalized voices the opportunity to tell their own tales outside the constraints of mainstream publishers and societal norms. These independent publishers played a crucial role in providing space for queer characters and themes, often challenging traditional tropes and expanding the possibilities of what fantasy literature could address.
One of the key authors to emerge during this period was Ursula K. Le Guin, whose landmark 1969 novel The Left Hand of Darkness made a bold statement in the realm of speculative fiction. Le Guin’s exploration of gender and sexuality in the world of Gethen—where inhabitants can change sex—was groundbreaking for its time. Though not explicitly focusing on queer relationships, the novel opened the door for conversations about non-binary gender identities and fluidity, laying the foundation for more nuanced queer representation in later works.
During the same period, Mercedes Lackey’s Heralds of Valdemar series (beginning in the late 1980s) also broke barriers with the inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters, even if their roles were often secondary. In Lackey’s world, characters from different sexual orientations existed alongside the central, heteronormative narrative, which was still a relatively rare sight in mainstream fantasy at the time. While the inclusion of queer characters was still somewhat peripheral—often as side characters or in the form of subtle romantic relationships—it represented a shift toward more visibility for LGBTQ+ people within fantasy settings.
Despite these advances, queer representation in fantasy during the 1970s–1990s remained limited in several ways. Many LGBTQ+ characters were depicted through metaphors or allegories, often placed on the fringes of the story. Queer relationships were still portrayed with a degree of caution, and when they were present, they were often sidelined or used to illustrate a moral or social issue. It would take time before queer characters in fantasy were fully integrated into the main narratives with depth and complexity.
Nonetheless, this period was crucial in the journey of queer representation in fantasy. It laid the groundwork for future generations of authors who would bring LGBTQ+ characters to the forefront, shaping the fantasy genre into a more inclusive and representative space.
The Early 2000s: Growing Visibility and Representation
The early 2000s marked a significant turning point for queer representation in fantasy, as the genre saw an increasing inclusion of more explicit LGBTQ+ characters. This shift was fueled by broader cultural movements that championed diversity, equality, and inclusion, particularly as societal attitudes toward sexuality and gender continued to evolve. Queer characters were no longer relegated to the background or hidden behind subtext; they began to take center stage in fantasy stories, offering readers more authentic and multifaceted portrayals.
One of the most notable changes in the 2000s was the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in a way that was no longer defined by tragedy, stigma, or secrecy. While earlier representations often focused on the “tragic gay” narrative—where LGBTQ+ characters faced tragic fates or existed as symbols of societal punishment—the 2000s saw a move toward more nuanced, humanized portrayals. Queer characters were depicted with more depth, their relationships and identities explored as part of the broader narrative, without being reduced to stereotypes or cautionary tales.
Sarah Monette’s Doctrine of Labyrinths (beginning in 2006) was a pivotal work in this regard. The series features a complex, multi-layered relationship between its two protagonists, Felix and Mildmay, who develop a romantic bond over the course of the story. While the characters face numerous challenges, their relationship is depicted with care and emotional depth, showcasing the realities of love, pain, and healing in a fantasy setting. Monette’s work was significant for its explicit portrayal of queer relationships, without sensationalism or tragedy, offering a more nuanced representation of LGBTQ+ love.
Similarly, Lynn Flewelling’s Nightrunner series, which began in the early 1990s but gained greater attention in the 2000s, introduced readers to two protagonists, Alec and Seregil, whose romantic and emotional bond grows throughout the series. Flewelling’s inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters was groundbreaking at the time, as their relationship was central to the narrative and explored with nuance and respect. While the series began as a tale of adventure and intrigue, it became one of the early examples of queer representation in a fantasy series, showing that LGBTQ+ characters could be protagonists with rich, multidimensional lives.
In addition to literary works, fantasy television and film also began to feature more visible queer characters. Shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003) and Xena: Warrior Princess (1995–2001) played significant roles in shaping the representation of LGBTQ+ characters on screen. Buffy introduced the character of Willow Rosenberg, whose coming-out story and eventual relationship with Tara Maclay became a landmark moment for queer visibility in mainstream television. While Buffy explored a range of supernatural elements, its portrayal of Willow’s relationship with Tara was groundbreaking in its handling of queer love and its acceptance within the show’s broader narrative.
Similarly, Xena: Warrior Princess became an iconic show for LGBTQ+ fans, particularly due to the strong and complex bond between Xena and Gabrielle. While the series never explicitly labeled their relationship as romantic, the deep emotional connection between the characters, combined with the subtextual elements of their partnership, made Xena a beloved cult hit for queer viewers. The show’s blend of adventure, fantasy, and the unspoken chemistry between its leads created an early, albeit indirect, representation of queer relationships in a fantasy setting.
This era marked the beginning of a broader shift in how queer characters were portrayed in fantasy. They were no longer marginal figures, but fully realized characters whose identities were integral to the story. While challenges remained—such as the need for more intersectional representation and the occasional reliance on stereotypes—this period laid the foundation for a more inclusive and authentic representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in fantasy. The 2000s demonstrated that queer characters could exist in central roles, experiencing the same complexities, joys, and struggles as their heterosexual counterparts.
The Modern Era: Diversity and Mainstream Recognition (2010s–Present)
The 2010s and beyond have seen a true explosion of queer representation in fantasy literature and media. This period has witnessed not only the rise of LGBTQ+ characters at the forefront of major stories but also a marked shift in how these characters are portrayed. Rather than relegated to side roles or serving as plot devices, queer characters are now integral to the narrative and exist in a variety of forms, reflecting the growing demand for inclusivity and the recognition of diverse identities.
One of the most important developments of the modern era is the rise of authors from diverse backgrounds who bring authentic LGBTQ+ experiences into their works. These authors are not only providing greater visibility for queer individuals, but they are also challenging stereotypes and offering more complex, multidimensional representations of LGBTQ+ characters. As a result, fantasy literature has become a more inclusive space, with new voices contributing to the richness of the genre.
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree (2019) is one such example. This epic fantasy novel features a sprawling world with complex political intrigue, magic, and dragons, but it also stands out for its inclusive representation of LGBTQ+ characters. The book includes multiple queer relationships, with one of the central characters, Tané, having a romantic bond with another woman. Shannon’s work stands out for its positive, respectful portrayal of queer love within a larger, action-packed fantasy narrative, showcasing that LGBTQ+ representation can be both central and seamlessly integrated into high fantasy.
Similarly, Tamsyn Muir’s Gideon the Ninth (2019) brought a new level of queer representation to science fantasy with its portrayal of queer relationships without making them the focus of the plot. The book is known for its smart, irreverent writing and its diverse cast, including characters with various gender identities and sexual orientations. The bond between the two protagonists, Gideon and Harrow, is not only a crucial element of the story but is also handled with nuance, allowing their relationship to develop naturally within the larger, often eerie, narrative of necromancy and mystery.
Tasha Suri’s The Jasmine Throne (2021) is another significant work that builds on this trend of inclusive storytelling. Set in a richly imagined South Asian-inspired fantasy world, the novel includes a central romance between two women—one of whom is a princess, and the other a defiant servant. This love story is intricately woven into the book’s broader themes of power, rebellion, and oppression. Suri’s work demonstrates that queer representation can be both diverse in its cultural setting and nuanced in its portrayal of relationships, offering readers a deeper, richer experience of fantasy.
In the world of television and film, queer representation has also seen an impressive surge. Shows like She-Ra and the Princesses of Power (2018-2020) and The Owl House (2020-2023) have pushed the boundaries of what is acceptable in children’s programming, offering stories that feature LGBTQ+ characters and relationships in a way that is accessible, affirming, and even celebrated. She-Ra prominently features the romance between Adora and Catra, which is a core part of the series’ emotional depth and growth. Similarly, The Owl House follows the journey of Luz, a bisexual teen who forms a romantic bond with another girl, Amity, throughout the show.
In the realm of more mainstream media, Good Omens (2019), based on the novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, also garnered attention for its portrayal of the relationship between Aziraphale and Crowley, two angels whose bond can be read as deeply romantic, even if not explicitly confirmed within the narrative. The series’ treatment of their relationship, full of chemistry and unspoken affection, resonated with many viewers who appreciated its gentle yet significant exploration of queer love in a fantastical setting.
One of the key factors contributing to the surge of queer representation in fantasy has been the rise of social media and self-publishing platforms. Authors who might have previously struggled to find traditional publishing avenues are now able to reach audiences directly through digital platforms like Wattpad, Kindle Direct Publishing, and Patreon. This democratization of publishing has allowed for an explosion of queer-centric fantasy works, where writers can authentically express their LGBTQ+ experiences and connect with like-minded readers. Social media also plays a crucial role in building communities around queer fantasy, allowing fans to engage with and support queer storytelling in ways that have never been possible before.
The modern era has ushered in an exciting time for queer representation in fantasy, with more diverse voices, more nuanced portrayals, and greater mainstream recognition. From books to TV shows, LGBTQ+ characters are no longer just an afterthought but are becoming an essential part of the fabric of fantasy storytelling. As the genre continues to evolve, it is clear that queer representation will remain a vital and celebrated part of its future.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While queer representation in fantasy has made tremendous strides in recent years, the journey is far from over. Despite significant progress, the genre—and broader media as a whole—continues to face several challenges that threaten to undermine the inclusion and visibility of LGBTQ+ characters and stories. These challenges include ongoing censorship, book bans, and pushback from conservative audiences who seek to restrict or silence queer narratives.
One of the most troubling challenges is the rise of book bans targeting LGBTQ+ content. In various parts of the world, especially in more conservative regions, books featuring LGBTQ+ characters or themes are being removed from school libraries and public shelves. This backlash has sparked widespread debates about freedom of expression and the role of literature in fostering understanding and empathy. These book bans particularly affect young adult fantasy works that feature LGBTQ+ characters, restricting access to stories that could help young readers feel seen and understood.
Alongside censorship, there is also resistance from conservative audiences who often argue that queer representation in media is “too political” or inappropriate, especially for younger viewers or readers. This opposition, fueled by political ideologies and societal norms, has resulted in pushback against LGBTQ+ characters in television, film, and literature. The idea that queer characters are being “forced” into stories or that their presence detracts from the core narrative is a common refrain among these critics, though such arguments fail to recognize the inherent value of representation for marginalized communities.
Despite these challenges, it is vital that the conversation about queer representation in fantasy continues to grow. The importance of continued advocacy for authentic and varied LGBTQ+ representation cannot be overstated. While the increasing visibility of queer characters in fantasy is encouraging, it’s essential to recognize that representation must not be one-dimensional. Queer characters, like all characters, should be multifaceted, flawed, and real, reflecting the full spectrum of human experience. This means portraying not just romantic or sexual identities but also exploring the complexities of queerness—such as intersectionality, gender identity, and the experiences of marginalized queer communities.
Advocacy for this type of representation comes from various sources, including authors, publishers, and readers. Writers continue to play a key role in breaking new ground by writing inclusive, diverse stories that center queer identities without reducing them to mere plot devices or stereotypes. Publishers have an equally important responsibility to support and promote LGBTQ+ authors, ensuring that these voices are given space in the literary world. This includes being willing to take risks on non-traditional narratives and diverse characters, even if they may not align with mainstream market trends. Readers, too, can advocate for queer representation by supporting works that showcase diverse LGBTQ+ voices, sharing those books with others, and amplifying the work of underrepresented authors.
The future of queer fantasy depends on the collective efforts of these three groups—authors, publishers, and readers—to push for a continued expansion of LGBTQ+ narratives. As more diverse voices find their place in the genre, the landscape of fantasy will become richer, more inclusive, and more reflective of the world we live in. However, to ensure that this progress continues, we must remain vigilant in advocating for authenticity and variety in representation, while also resisting efforts to erase or silence queer stories.
While the road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, the growth of queer representation in fantasy signals an exciting and transformative future. With continued support and dedication, queer narratives will not only endure but thrive, enriching the fantasy genre for generations to come.
Conclusion
The journey of queer representation in fantasy has been long, complex, and often challenging, but the progress made over the past several decades is undeniable. From subtle subtext and allegorical references to full, complex portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters, queer identities have slowly but surely found a more visible and respected place in fantasy literature and media. The shift from marginalization to mainstream recognition reflects not only the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in society but also the increasing understanding of how essential diverse representation is to a vibrant and evolving genre.
For readers, this evolution is incredibly significant. It’s more than just the inclusion of queer characters—it’s about the validation and affirmation of LGBTQ+ experiences and the broadening of fantasy to reflect the complexity of the human condition. Queer characters are now allowed to take center stage, not as side notes or afterthoughts but as protagonists and integral parts of the narrative. Their struggles, victories, and relationships are portrayed with depth, complexity, and humanity, helping to foster empathy and understanding in readers of all backgrounds. This shift not only enriches the genre but also opens up new possibilities for storytelling, showing that fantasy is a space where all kinds of identities can exist and thrive.
The continued growth of queer representation in fantasy is not only a victory for LGBTQ+ individuals but also for the genre itself. Fantasy is about pushing boundaries, imagining new worlds, and challenging conventions—and the inclusion of diverse voices is a natural extension of these core values. The richness of queer narratives brings new layers of complexity and perspective to the genre, broadening its scope and appeal.
As readers and fans, it’s essential that we continue to support and uplift diverse queer voices in fantasy. Whether through purchasing books by LGBTQ+ authors, sharing recommendations, or engaging with queer-themed media, we have the power to help shape the future of the genre. By championing authentic, varied queer representation, we can ensure that fantasy remains a genre where everyone has the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the stories they love.
In closing, the road to queer visibility in fantasy is far from over, but the strides we’ve made so far offer hope for an even brighter future. By continuing to celebrate diverse queer voices, we contribute to a fantasy landscape that is more inclusive, empathetic, and reflective of the world we all inhabit.
