Fantasy Sweet

Alright, I admit it. I am a complete sucker for epic fantasy/sci fi fiction. I am tickled that the two series, “House of the Dragon” and “Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power,” are both premiering as we close summer of 2022. All of my escapist tendencies are being matched by superb storytelling and breathtaking attention to visual detail.

To be sure, I have not lost sight of the fact that our upcoming midterm elections could spell the beginning of the end for our democracy. Given that fact and the extremely small influence I have over the future chain of events, I desperately need a story of victory over evil right now.

While the world also observes the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, it’s important to note how deeply English history influences two of the most popular programs on television right now. Regardless of the variety of feelings that exist concerning the monarchy and British imperialism, Queen Elizabeth II represents the latest segment of a through-line that reaches back centuries into a history that shaped much of our modern western culture (for better or worse). In a world that today feels like a wrecking ball off its chain, the continuity she brought was felt by a broad swath of people as (at least) something of a constant. Because of that, her loss is felt in ways that differ from ‘normal’ circumstances.

I won’t pretend to be an expert on English history, however I have had a general interest in the evolution of many tribes that made up both Celts and Britons. Druids shaped the spirituality of these tribes. There are many nods to these tribes and their spiritual beliefs in the scenery and design of both “Lord of the Rings” and “House of the Dragon.” You can pick up many themes in the set and costume design for these shows. It’s easy to see why these themes would be compelling given our challenges today. Here are just a few examples:

An abundance of nature. You will see scroll motifs, filigree, leaves, and trees in the detailed embroidery and etchings found throughout the sets. There is a spiritual connection between humans and the natural world. There is a belief that strength is derived from a connection to nature and a deep reverence for the natural world. Evil is derived from a rejection of these principles.

Presence of curves and circles vs. straight lines and squares. In keeping with the connection with the natural world, the presence of circles and curves more accurately represents what is found (and to be appreciated) from the natural world. Circles and spirals represent the eternal nature of life as a series of recurring cycles.

Femininity is associated with the divine, giving life and continuing the cycle. Curves are typically associated with the female sex, especially when accompanied by lush interiors and ample attention to the decorative arts. While the experience of women is complicated throughout history, their close association with the cyclical nature of our world gives them strength and gives men pause.

So yes, not hard to see why these themes in popular television are deeply relevant while still offering some form of escape. Trying to wrest autonomy and power from women as life-givers? Attempting to deny the natural world it’s dominion over our very existence? Celebrating excesses amidst horrific suffering? Wow, have we learned anything at all?

An ugly history can sure be made to look lovely, from a very safe distance.