„Grimdark fantasy” and the Matter of Worldbuilding on the Example of Joe Abercrombie's „The First Law” Series

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to provide an analysis of Joe Abercrombie’s ten volume cycle The First Law which can be seen as a conscious subversion against traditional fantasy tropes, especially that of Tolkien’s. Abercrombie’s cycle is analyzed in regard to its plot structure, worldbuilding, narration and narrative strategies, as well as numerous allusions to historical events. Abercrombie’s protagonists’ pessimistic worldview and general sense of despair, hopelessness and nihilism lead to creation of a new fantasy sub-genre called grimdark fantasy. Connotations of the said term are analyzed with emphasis on its vague meaning and often arbitrary use. The consequences of Abercrombie’s literary strategy are then confronted with conventional strategies of fantasy worldbuilding with the conclusion that the author’s approach is, at least in some degree, destructive to traditionally associated with the fantastic literature goals such as escapism or worldbuilding sensu stricte. Ultimately The First Law becomes a grim social commentary book cycle somewhat reminiscent of Terry Pratchett’s late Discworld novels.