Phantastes: A Faerie Romance for Men and Women

Although the title declares the story to be written for men and women, the women in the story are all representations of archetypes or ideals, whereas the men are more like real people who guide Anodos toward manhood. How might the representation of the feminine be read or interpreted differently by women than by male readers?

How might the story be different if the protagonist were the maiden whose magic globe (heart) is broken by Anodos?

The behavior of Anodos’s shadow changes throughout the story. Sometimes it is more intrusive than others. What do the shadow’s behaviors signify about Anodos’s mental states?

Why does MacDonald use the vehicle of fantasy to explore the idea of spirituality, belief, and enlightenment rather than a sermon, seeing that he was a minister? What does it say about him that he employed fantasy rather than fire and brimstone?

The farmer and his son illustrate two potential views of atheism. The son is unhappy and malicious. The farmer is depicted as a good and kind man. What is MacDonald saying by showing an unbeliever to be a good and happy person? If pursuing enlightenment and the divine isn’t the only way to be good or happy, what is it for?

The story has many songs and poems, usually expressing wisdom or new understanding. Choose one and take it line by line, exploring its meaning and significance.

The Romantics reacted against the Age of Enlightenment and what they saw as a cold and mechanistic view of the universe. What are the relative merits of the two philosophies? What does each contribute to society? Does one contribute more value than the other?

Past tears are present strength. How do various characters learn wisdom and strength through sorrow?