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Originally Posted by DiapDealer
I'm of a mind that the word "Epic" has a tendency be misused slightly in the fantasy genre. It seems it's come to simply mean huge word- book-counts, anymore. I like to think there are some stylistic requirements to be met as well. I've read some stand-alone books that felt just as "epic" in scope to me as several of the more massive tome-filled series. Sure... that's probably pretty rare, but still... I just think there should be a distinction between "Epic Fantasy" and "Really Long Fantasy Series Full of Giant Books." *shrugs*
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I agree completely, but Malazan Book of the Fallen really is epic. In both the proper meaning of the word, as well as in length. It stretches across an entire world (what's known of it anyway, which is a lot) and across vast gulfs of time. Plots and plans millennia in the making are gradually revealed and come to fruition, as vast armies march, engulfing entire continents and whole races in war.
I really can't think of a series or book which better embodies the term "epic".
Quote:
Originally Posted by DiapDealer
In addition to a central quest, I've always felt a (at least somewhat) central hero is a prerequisite for "Epic Fantasy," too.
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This I can't really relate to though.