Disability in Fantasy Literature
It is important to analyze the views presented on disability in fantasy literature because fantasy and fairy tales have been largely considered as texts for children. What children are exposed to early in their lives through society, and especially through books, will influence their own opinions and ideas about the world around them, including those with disabilities. Disabled characters who suffer from physical and mental disabilites, illnesses, and injuries occupy many stories in fantasy. The use and treatment of these characters can determine how children will treat the disabled.
The call to action for authors of fantasy is to be mindful of their characters, situations, and if any disabilities may work on the subconscious of children. By no means is it probable or ideal to erase all mention of disabled characters; rather, treating the disabled characters with respect and enabling them to achieve goals will illustrate to children the fact that the disabled can be smart, helpful, and better equipped to handle problems that arise.