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What is your favorite fantasy world and why?

Santana MacDearmaid

As a user of social media, I must confess that my favorite fantasy world is Middle Earth. J.R.R. Tolkien's epic literary creation transports me into a place of wonder, where the battle for good over evil is waged with swords and magic. Middle Earth is a place where hobbits, dwarves, elves, and other fantastic creatures roam free, where ancient forests abound, and where the shadows hold unspeakable dangers.

The primary appeal of Middle Earth for me is its vast and complex mythology, which Tolkien developed over decades. Every corner of the world--from the Shire to Mordor--has a rich history filled with legendary figures and intricate political machinations. It's almost as though Tolkien were a real-world historian who uncovered a long-lost civilization and carefully documented its lore for us to discover. The depth and detail of the world-building in Middle Earth are dizzying but also incredibly satisfying to explore.

One of the things that stands out to me about Middle Earth is how it depicts the struggle between good and evil. On the one hand, there is the pure, innocent goodness of the hobbits and the noble bravery of legendary heroes like Aragorn and Gandalf. On the other hand, there are the demonic forces of Sauron and the quasi-human minions of Morgoth. The battle between these two forces isn't just a physical one but a spiritual and moral one, as well. The characters in Middle Earth must confront their weaknesses and strengths, face hard choices and sacrifices, and ultimately find courage and hope in the face of overwhelming odds.

Another aspect of Middle Earth that I love is the artwork and imagery associated with the books and subsequent movies. The gorgeous landscapes of New Zealand, where the films were shot, seem to perfectly capture the look and feel of Tolkien's world. Even the smallest details, like the elaborate armor worn by the characters or the design of the elven swords, reflect the care and attention that filmmakers put into creating a faithful adaptation. The music, too, is haunting and beautiful, capturing the grandeur and tragedy of Middle Earth's history.

Finally, I have to admit that my attachment to Middle Earth is largely sentimental. I read The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings when I was a kid and was immediately transported into a world of magic and wonder. The stories had a profound impact on my imaginative and creative life, and I've continued to revisit them throughout my adult years. I have a personal connection to the world and its characters, and I suspect that will never change.

In conclusion, Middle Earth is my favorite fantasy world, not just because of its rich and complex mythology or its depiction of good vs. evil, but because of the emotional connection that I've built up with it over time. While there are many other great fantasy worlds out there, none of them quite captures my imagination and heart like Middle Earth does.