Magical realism is a genre of literature that depicts the real world as having an undercurrent of magic or fantasy. Magical realism is a part of the realism genre of fiction. Within a work of magical realism, the world is still grounded in the real world, but fantastical elements are considered normal in this world.

Magical realism portrays fantastical events in an otherwise realistic tone. It brings fables, folk tales, and myths into contemporary social relevance. Fantasy traits given to characters, such as levitation, telepathy, and telekinesis, help to encompass modern political realities that can be phantasmagorical.

The biggest difference between the two is that fantasy takes place in a world other than our own, whereas magical realism focuses on ordinary people going about their ordinary lives in an ordinary world. Everything is normal, except for one or two elements that go beyond the realm of possibility as we know it.

Magical realism can be found in most art forms throughout the world, however the literary movement of magical realism was spearheaded by Latin American authors. Particularly from these Latin American authors it is often read as a genre of political subversion.

While magical realism situates readers in a predominantly realistic world, fantasy takes place in an unreal world with unreal characters. J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy is a popular example of fantasy. While magical realism stays grounded in our own reality, fantasy breaks free of it.

Why do authors of magical realism often use a serious tone in their stories? It helps develop the validity of the author’s work.

Elements of Literary Realism

• Realistic characters and setting.
• Comprehensive detail about everyday occurrences.
• Plausible plot (a story that could happen in your town)
• Real dialects of the area.
• Character development important.
• Importance in depicting social class.