The Evolution of Modern Fantasy
From Antiquarianism to the Ballantine Adult Fantasy Series

In this comprehensive study, Williamson traces the literary history of the fantasy genre from the eighteenth century to its coalescence following the success of Tolkien's work in the 1960s. While some studies have engaged with related material, there has been no extended study specifically exploring the roots of this now beloved genre.

1. Introduction: Charting the Terrain 2. The Eighteenth Century: The Forgotten Past 3. Romantic Transformations 4. From Verse to Prose: The Victorian Period 5. Twentieth Century: The Literary Canon 6. Twentieth Century: Popular Fantasy 7. Conclusion: 1960-1980