George MacDonald

George MacDonald (1824–1905) was a pioneering figure in the field of fantasy literature and a mentor to fellow writer Lewis Carroll. His influence can be seen in the works of later authors such as C.S. Lewis, who considered him a spiritual father, and J.R.R. Tolkien. Born in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, MacDonald originally studied to be a minister but found his true calling in writing. With a deep spiritual undercurrent and fairy-tale quality, MacDonald's stories hinge on the themes of redemption, love, and the victory of good over evil. His forays into fantasy and his reworking of mythological themes were innovative for his time. Among his notable works are the classic 'Phantastes' (1858) and 'Lilith' (1895), which are considered seminal in the genre of fantasy literature. MacDonald's 'The Princess and the Goblin' (1872) and its sequel, 'The Princess and Curdie' (1883), are recognized for their influence on future generations of fantasy writers. An accomplished poet, MacDonald's collections, such as 'Poetry' (1893), bear his characteristic blend of profound spirituality and a deep empathy for the human condition. His narrative style, imbued with a pastoral lyricism and evocative of the Victorian era, captures his visionary beliefs and his confidence in the perpetual struggle between light and darkness. MacDonald's legacy extends beyond his literary achievements; his philosophical and theological reflections contributed significantly to Christian thought during the 19th century.