Worldbuilding

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Worldbuilding is a technique widely used by authors to create diverse and believable constructed worlds in which to base their stories, the process usually involves the creation of maps, listing the backstory of the world and the people of the world, amongst other features.

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[edit] Steps

Worldbuilding is a complex process, but it can be broken down into smaller categories.

[edit] Geography

It is vital to have clear and concise maps that display the locations of key points in the story - both so the author can be sure to be consistent and so the readers can get a clearer picture of the world being described. Two examples of famous maps in both literature and modern media are Middle-earth and the world of Azeroth.

[edit] Ecology

Many authors create their own fauna and flora to enrich their world. Imaginary herbs are a large part of many fantasy novels, Kingsfoil in The Lord of the Rings being one such example, the spice Melange in Dune is another.

[edit] Anthropology

The different cultures that inhabit the world are another important aspect of worldbuilding. These are often based on real cultures, such as Vikings, the Middle Ages, ancient China, or Bedouins.

[edit] Written history

Creating a history for an imaginary world adds a depth and flavour that can help to draw readers into it. Created history can be based on anything, but many science fiction and fantasy authors base their novels in worlds where a major war has occurred in the past, is occurring, or will occur in the near future. Examples of such writing include The Lord of the Rings, the Shannara series, and the Belgariad series.

[edit] Physics and magic

Another major aspect in worldbuilding is creating a world based either on a) Physics or b) Magic. The former is favoured by Science Fiction authors, who use technology in accordance with theories of the universe to create "magic-like" circumstances. In some fantasy worlds, the laws of physics are changed to create a story. For example, in The Edge Chronicles, certain rocks and types of wood are naturally buoyant and wil float given enough mass. Hyperdrive or faster than light travel is a common factor in most science fiction, and is an example of Physics. The latter is favoured by fantasy authors, who will give some (or all) characters magical talent. Authors such as David Eddings and Holly Lisle use Limited Magic, whereas authors such as J. R. R. Tolkien and Fiona McIntosh prefer Limitless magic. Combinations of physics and magic are becoming a common occurrence, such as The Dark Tower and Star Wars.

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