Ian Talks Urban Fantasy Tropes A-Z: TropesAtoZ, #1

By Ian Eress

Embark on a thrilling exploration of the captivating world of urban fantasy in this comprehensive reference guide for aspiring writers and avid readers alike. "Ian Talks Urban Fantasy Tropes A-Z" by Ian Eress unravels the intricate tapestry of urban fantasy tropes, empowering newcomers to understand and masterfully utilize these narrative devices to create immersive, spellbinding stories.

 

You will learn:

 

- An A-Z overview of essential urban fantasy tropes, like magical creatures, hidden worlds, and supernatural powers.

- How to integrate these tropes into your stories to craft engaging narratives and intriguing plotlines that captivate readers.

- Essential techniques for subverting and reimagining classic tropes to create fresh and original urban fantasy tales.

- Strategies for building complex, multidimensional characters that resonate with your audience and drive your story forward.

- Best practices for world-building and weaving magic systems into your urban settings to create a seamless and believable universe.

 

This book is your go-to resource for mastering the art of urban fantasy storytelling, with clear explanations and practical examples. It offers an invaluable resource for harnessing the enchanting, mysterious, and action-packed elements of urban fantasy and is tailored with beginners in mind.

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Handmade Books
• Release date: May 29, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223684749

Ian Eress

Born in the seventies. Average height. Black hair. Sometimes shaves. Black eyes. Nearsighted. Urban. MSc. vim > Emacs. Mac.

Book preview

Ian Talks Urban Fantasy Tropes A-Z

TropesAtoZ, Volume 1

Ian Eress

Published by Handmade Books, 2023.

While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.

IAN TALKS URBAN FANTASY TROPES A-Z

First edition. May 29, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 Ian Eress.

ISBN: 979-8223684749

Written by Ian Eress.

Table of Contents

Preface

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

Index

For Caitlyn

Preface

Welcome to Ian Talks Urban Fantasy Tropes A-Z, a comprehensive guide designed for aspiring authors and avid readers who are just beginning their journey in the vast universe of urban fantasy tropes. This book should serve as your go-to source for learning about the many tropes that have had a significant impact on the urban fantasy genre.

You'll discover as you read this book that it is organized alphabetically. This makes it simple for you to explore and get the information you need. I have written each entry with the novice in mind, emphasizing the fundamentals of each trope, its use in stories, and its major characteristics.

In this book, you will come across:

Urban Fantasy Tropes: Popular and recurring themes, elements, and devices that shape the urban fantasy genre. Examples include magical systems, supernatural creatures, and secret societies.

Character Archetypes: Commonly used character types in urban fantasy, such as the reluctant hero, the mentor, and the love interest.

World-building: creating believable, immersive, and intriguing urban fantasy settings that blend the magical and the mundane.

This book will teach you how to identify and use the most popular and influential urban fantasy tropes in your own writing. As you improve your skills and develop interesting stories, this information will help you make informed decisions.

Urban fantasy and the tropes within it are constantly evolving. This book cannot cover all tropes. Therefore, use this book as a starting point and learn about the ever-growing urban fantasy landscape on your own.

The creators, contributors, and fans of urban fantasy deserve thanks. Their hard work and passion have made this genre exciting, diverse, and ever-expanding. I hope this book inspires you to join them and further enrich the world of urban fantasy.

Happy trope hunting!

Ian

A

IN THIS CHAPTER we will discuss:

A Mythology Is True: The idea that the myths and legends of a particular culture are actually true in the story's world.

Alien Among Us: A character who is not human and is trying to blend in with human society.

Alternate History: The story takes place in a world where history has taken a different path than our own.

Anti-Hero: The protagonist is not a traditional hero, but a flawed character who may have questionable morals or motivations.

---

1/4 A Mythology Is True: (WHO THIS IS FOR..) How does A Mythology Is True incorporate classic urban fantasy tropes? What makes A Mythology Is True unique and interesting? How does A Mythology Is True challenge the reader's preconceived notions of fantasy? The estimated reading time is approximately eleven and a half minutes.

Importance (1-10): 7

Difficulty Level (Easy, Normal, Hard): Normal

Estimated Time to Master: 20-30 hours

Relevance Rating (1-10): 8

Real-World Application: Understanding and incorporating mythology in urban fantasy writing can enhance the depth and complexity of the fictional world, creating a more immersive experience for readers. It can also provide a unique perspective on the human condition and explore universal themes that resonate with readers across cultures and time periods.

00:30  (OVERVIEW).

In urban fantasy, A Mythology Is True is a common trope where mythical creatures and legends that people believe to be fictional in the real world actually exist and play a significant role in the story. This means that creatures like:

 - vampires

 - werewolves

 - faeries

 - and gods and goddesses from diverse mythologies

 are depicted as real and interact with the human world.

In this trope, mythical beings sometimes have their own society and rules, and they may have their own agendas that conflict with those of humans. The main character in the story may be a human who realizes the existence of these creatures and gets caught up in their world, or they may be a member of one of these mythical beings themselves.

/!\ Overall, A Mythology Is True adds an element of magic and wonder to the urban setting, creating a unique and intriguing world where anything is possible.

01:30  FACTS AND FIGURES.

☛—Magic: Magic exists and features prominently in the stories. It could be practiced by specific characters or more widespread in the world.

☛—Monsters: Monsters and other fantastical creatures frequently appear and may play antagonistic or supporting roles. Think dragons, vampires, werewolves, etc.

☛—Gritty tone: The stories have a darker, grittier tone compared to more traditional fantasy.

☛—Modern settings: The stories take place in contemporary, real-world settings like cities rather than completely invented worlds.

☛—Blending of worlds: The fantasy and non-fantasy worlds intersect and blend rather than being completely separate.

☛—Lost magic: Magic that was once more common has faded and is harder to find in the modern world.

☛—Protagonists: Ordinary human characters, sometimes with day jobs, discover they have connections to the magical world.

02:30  (GIVE IT A TRY).

Choose a mythology: The first step is to choose a mythology that you want to explore in your story. It could be Greek, Norse, Egyptian, or any other mythology that you find interesting.

Create an urban setting: Once you have decided on the mythology, it's time to create an urban setting for your story. This could be a big city like New York or London or a smaller town with a supernatural twist.

Develop your protagonist: Your protagonist should be someone who is caught up in mythology and has to navigate its complexities. They should have a unique set of skills or abilities that will help them confront the challenges that arise.

Introduce a supernatural element: In an urban fantasy story, there is some kind of supernatural element that is woven into the fabric of the world. This could be vampires, werewolves, wizards, or any other creature or entity you can imagine.

Build the mythology into the story: As you write, you should gradually build the mythology into the story. We can do this through dialogue, descriptions, and actions that reveal the underlying mythology and its impact on the world.

Create a conflict: Every good story needs a conflict, and an urban fantasy story is no exception. The conflict could be between the protagonist and a supernatural antagonist, or it could be an internal conflict that the protagonist must overcome to achieve their goals.

Add twists and turns: To keep your readers engaged, add twists and turns to the story. These could be unexpected plot developments, revelations about mythology, or new supernatural elements that come into play.

Resolve the conflict: As the story nears its end, the conflict should come to a head and be resolved in a satisfying way. This could involve a final battle between the protagonist and the antagonist or a more subtle resolution that ties up all the loose ends.

Edit and revise: Once you have completed your first draft, go back through the story and edit and revise it. Look for typos, inconsistencies, and areas that need more development. Get feedback from beta readers to help you improve the story.

Share your story: Finally, once you are happy with your story, it's time to share it with the world. You can publish it online, submit it to literary magazines or anthologies, or even self-publish it as an e-book or paperback. Whatever you choose to do, celebrate your accomplishment and keep writing more stories!

03:30  (BOOKS AND REFERENCES).

https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/UrbanFantasy

https://allthetropes.org/wiki/Tom_Holt

https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/AMythologyIsTrue

04:30  (SELF-STUDY QUESTIONS).

- I.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a human who is aware of the existence of supernatural creatures and the magical world?

- II.) Which mythical creature is sometimes portrayed as a shape-shifter in urban fantasy?

- III.) In A Mythology Is True, what is the name of the protagonist who discovers that the gods and goddesses of ancient mythology are real?

- IV.) What is the term used to describe the magical energy that powers spells and other supernatural abilities in urban fantasy?

- V.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a powerful supernatural being who rules over a specific territory or group of creatures?

- VI.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a wizard and private investigator in Chicago?

- VII.) In A Mythology Is True, which mythological figure does the protagonist initially encounter and help to escape from a monster?

- VIII.) Which urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a vampire detective living in St. Louis?

- IX.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a group of supernatural creatures who live together and follow a strict hierarchy?

- X.) In A Mythology Is True, which ancient mythological figure does the protagonist have to face to save the world?

05:30  (TRUE OR FALSE?).

- I.) In urban fantasy, we can present mythology as true.

- II.) Urban fantasy sometimes features mythical creatures from various cultures.

- III.) Urban fantasy authors rarely take creative liberties with mythology.

- IV.) Mythology is only used as a backdrop in urban fantasy stories.

- V.) Urban fantasy can sometimes blend multiple mythologies together.

- VI.) Mythology in urban fantasy is always presented as accurate and factual.

- VII.) Urban fantasy authors must have extensive knowledge of mythology to incorporate it effectively.

- VIII.) Mythology in urban fantasy can serve as a commentary on modern society.

- IX.) Urban fantasy stories can challenge traditional beliefs about mythology.

- X.) Mythology in urban fantasy is used to explore themes of power and control.

06:30  (KEEP LEARNING).

Subscribe to newsletters or join online communities where you can discuss urban fantasy tropes and receive recommendations for recent works that explore the A Mythology Is True trope. Check out these steps to help you become a master of A Mythology Is True in urban fantasy tropes:

Explore advanced A Mythology Is True concepts. Set aside time to read urban fantasy books or engage with other media that use the A Mythology Is True trope.

07:30  (FLASH CARD).

Front: Urban Fantasy Tropes

/?\ Q: Is the notion that Mythology is true a common trope in urban fantasy literature?

Back:

A: Yes, the idea that mythology and folklore are real and influence the world is a popular theme in urban fantasy.

Additional info 1: In urban fantasy stories, mythical creatures and gods sometimes coexist with humans, and their interactions shape the plot.

Additional info 2: This trope allows authors to explore and reinterpret familiar myths and legends, adding new twists and layers to the stories. It also creates a sense of wonder and awe, as readers get to experience a world where the impossible becomes possible.

08:30  (TWEETS).

@instructor: Hey there! Are you enjoying our lesson on urban fantasy tropes and the concept of A Mythology Is True?

@student: I'm confused. How can mythology be true? Isn't it a bunch of stories and legends?

@instructor: Ah, I can see why you might think that. But in urban fantasy, these mythologies and legends are actually based on actual events and creatures that exist in our world.

@student: Really? So. This includes, vampires and werewolves are real?

@instructor: Well, in the world of urban fantasy, yes! The mythology surrounding these creatures is true, and they exist alongside humans in secret. It's a way of exploring our world through a different lens and adding a sense of wonder and magic to it.

@student: That's pretty cool, I guess. But how do we know what's real and what's not in urban fantasy?

@instructor: It's all about the rules established by the author. They create a world where certain mythologies and creatures exist and follow those rules consistently throughout the story. It's up to the reader to accept those rules and immerse themselves in the fantasy world.

@student: I think I get it now! Many thanks for explaining it to me.

@instructor: No problem! Urban fantasy can be tricky to wrap your head around at first, but it's a really fun genre to explore.

09:30  (THE FUTURE).

Continued Growth: The popularity of urban fantasy that incorporates mythology is likely to continue to grow in the coming years. As more people become interested in mythology and its cultural significance, the demand for stories that incorporate these themes is likely to increase.

Modern Ideas: With the rise of social media and digital platforms, urban fantasy authors will have opportunities to explore mythology in innovative ways. Incorporating modern technologies and ideas is likely to become more prevalent, as authors seek to engage younger audiences and explore new dimensions of the genre.

Expanding Community: As the urban fantasy genre continues to grow, so too will the community of readers and authors who are passionate about mythology. This community is likely to become more diverse and inclusive, as authors explore new cultural perspectives and engage with readers from around the world.

---

2/4 Alien Among Us: (WHO THIS IS FOR..) How does Alien Among Us use classic urban fantasy tropes? What makes Alien Among Us stand out from other fantasy stories? How does Alien Among Us explore the idea of aliens living among us? The estimated reading time is approximately eleven and a half minutes.

Importance (1-10): 6

Difficulty Level (Easy, Normal, Hard): Easy

Estimated Time to Master: 10-15 hours

Relevance Rating (1-10): 7

Real-World Application: The Alien Among Us trope in urban fantasy can explore themes of otherness and acceptance, and to add an element of mystery and intrigue to the story. This trope can be relevant in contemporary society, where issues of immigration and belonging are increasingly important. In addition, the trope is used to create interesting and complex characters, who must navigate the challenges of fitting in with a society that is not their own.

00:30  (OVERVIEW).

In urban fantasy, Alien Among Us is a common trope where a character of non-human origin. This includes an extraterrestrial or a supernatural creature, that lives among humans in disguise. This character may have their own agenda or mission on Earth, and they sometimes struggle to keep their true identity a secret while navigating human society.

The Alien Among Us trope can create tension and intrigue in the story, as the character must balance their desire to remain hidden with their need to interact with humans and accomplish their goals. They may face prejudice and discrimination from humans who are unaware of their true nature.

The main character in the story may be the alien themselves, or they may be a human who discovers the truth about the non-human character and becomes involved in their world. Overall, the Alien Among Us trope adds a unique twist to the urban fantasy genre, blending elements of science fiction and fantasy with the everyday world.

01:30  FACTS AND FIGURES.

☛—Alien in disguise: An alien secretly lives among humans disguised as a human

☛—Observing humans: The alien observes and studies human behaviors and culture to blend in.

☛—Developing emotions: The alien develops humanlike emotions the longer they live among humans.

☛—Romantic subplot: The alien may form an unexpected romantic connection with a human.

☛—Coming of age: The alien experience living as a human acts as a coming of age story for the alien character.

☛—Learning life lessons: The alien learns important life lessons from humans about empathy, love, pain, etc.

☛—Powers revealed: The alien's true identity and powers are revealed, though not always intentionally.

02:30  (GIVE IT A TRY).

Choose an alien race: The first step is to choose an alien race you want to explore in your story. It could be an established race from science fiction or a unique race you create yourself.

Create an urban setting: Once you have decided on the alien race, it's time to create an urban setting for your story. This could be a big city like New York or London or a smaller town with a supernatural twist.

Develop your protagonist: Your protagonist should be someone who is caught up in the arrival of the alien among humans and has to navigate its complexities. They should have a unique set of skills or abilities that will help them confront the challenges that arise.

Introduce a supernatural element: In an urban fantasy story, there is some kind of supernatural element that is woven into the fabric of the world. This could be vampires, werewolves, wizards, or any other creature or entity you can imagine.

Establish the alien's presence: As you write, you should gradually establish the alien's presence in the story. We can do this through dialogue, descriptions, and actions that reveal the alien's impact on the world.

Create a conflict: Every good story needs a conflict, and an urban fantasy story is no exception. The conflict could be between the protagonist and the alien, or it could be between the protagonist and another faction that wants to capture or exploit the alien.

Add twists and turns: To keep your readers engaged, add twists and turns to the story. These could be unexpected plot developments, revelations about the alien's origins or abilities, or new supernatural elements that come into play.

Explore the alien's culture: Besides the conflict between the protagonist and the alien, you can also explore the alien's culture and how it differs from human culture. This can add depth and richness to the story, and help readers to understand the alien's motivations and actions.

Resolve the conflict: As the story nears its end, the conflict should come to a head and be resolved in a satisfying way. This could involve a final confrontation between the protagonist and the antagonist, or a more subtle resolution that ties up all the loose ends.

Edit and revise: Once you have completed your first draft, go back through the story and edit and revise it. Look for typos, inconsistencies, and areas that need more development. Get feedback from beta readers to help you improve the story.

Share your story: Finally, once you are happy with your story, it's time to share it with the world. You can publish it online, submit it to literary magazines or anthologies, or even self-publish it as an e-book or paperback. Whatever you choose to do, celebrate your accomplishment and keep writing more stories!

03:30  (BOOKS AND REFERENCES).

https://www.studysmarter.us/explanations/english-literature/literary-elements/anti-hero/

https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/AlienAmongUs

04:30  (SELF-STUDY QUESTIONS).

- I.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a non-human creature who lives among humans in disguise?

- II.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a half-human, half-demon private investigator in Los Angeles?

- III.) In Alien Among Us, what is the name of the protagonist who is a member of an alien species living on Earth in secret?

- IV.) What is the term used to describe the magical ability to manipulate the elements, like fire, water, and earth, in urban fantasy?

- V.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a group of magical practitioners who come together to perform spells and rituals?

- VI.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a werewolf and private investigator in Chicago?

- VII.) In Alien Among Us, what is the name of the government agency tasked with monitoring and controlling supernatural and extraterrestrial activity on Earth?

- VIII.) Which urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a witch and private investigator in New York City?

- IX.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a powerful magical artifact that can grant immense power to the wielder?

- X.) In Alien Among Us, what is the ultimate goal of the alien species living on Earth, and how does the protagonist play a role in achieving that goal?

05:30  (TRUE OR FALSE?).

- I.) Urban fantasy can feature aliens as a type of creature.

- II.) An alien among humans is a common trope in urban fantasy.

- III.) Urban fantasy authors sometimes explore the theme of otherness through alien characters.

- IV.) The presence of an alien among humans is always welcomed in urban fantasy stories.

- V.) Urban fantasy rarely addresses the cultural differences between aliens and humans.

- VI.) The appearance of an alien in urban fantasy is used to comment on real-world issues.

- VII.) Alien characters in urban fantasy are sometimes portrayed as physically superior to humans.

- VIII.) The alien among humans trope is more common in science fiction than in urban fantasy.

- IX.) Urban fantasy authors must create a detailed backstory for their alien characters.

- X.) The alien among humans trope is used to explore the concept of identity in urban fantasy.

06:30  (KEEP LEARNING).

Subscribe to newsletters or join communities where you can discuss urban fantasy tropes, learn from professionals in the field, and discover recent works that delve into the Alien Among Us trope. Remember, urban fantasy offers an array of possibilities, so keep expanding your knowledge and embrace the excitement of exploring the Alien Among Us trope in the modern world! Check out these steps to enable you to become a master of Alien Among Us in urban fantasy tropes:

Dig into more sophisticated Alien Among Us concepts.

07:30  (FLASH CARD).

Front: Urban Fantasy Tropes

/?\ Q: What is the Alien Among Us trope in urban fantasy literature?

Back:

A: The Alien Among Us trope refers to the idea of a non-human creature or entity living among humans, sometimes in disguise.

Additional info 1: This trope is sometimes used in urban fantasy to explore themes of identity, belonging, and otherness.

Additional info 2: Examples of Alien Among Us characters in urban fantasy include vampires, werewolves, faeries, and demons, who must navigate the human world while hiding their true nature. This trope can also subvert expectations and challenge stereotypes, as the non-human character may defy the reader's preconceptions or assumptions about their kind.

08:30  (TWEETS).

@instructor: Hi there! Today, we're going to talk about the urban fantasy trope of Alien Among Us. Are you ready?

@student: Um, I'm not sure. What does that even mean?

@instructor: Well, in urban fantasy, sometimes there are characters who appear to be human but are actually aliens from another world. They might have special abilities or knowledge that sets them apart from regular humans.

@student: Oh, I think I get it. Like in the Men in Black movies?

@instructor: Exactly! The Men in Black are a great example of the Alien Among Us trope in action. They look and act like humans, but they're actually aliens from another planet who are secretly protecting Earth from other extraterrestrial threats.

@student: That's pretty cool. But why do authors use this trope?

@instructor: It's a way of exploring what it means to be human and how we interact with other beings in the universe. By introducing aliens into the mix, authors can ask questions about identity, belonging, and what it means to be part of a community.

@student: I see. So, how do we know when a character is an Alien Among Us in a story?

@instructor: It's revealed over time as the story unfolds. The character might exhibit unusual behavior or have knowledge that they shouldn't, and the other characters will suspect that something is off. Ultimately, the truth is revealed and the character has to grapple with their identity and place in the world.

@student: That sounds really interesting! I'm excited to read more stories with this trope.

@instructor: Urban fantasy is a really fun genre to explore because it allows us to imagine new and exciting worlds that are a little different from our own. I'm glad you're enjoying it!

09:30  (THE FUTURE).

Continued Growth: The theme of aliens among us is likely to continue to grow in urban fantasy tropes. With the increasing interest in science fiction and the possibility of extraterrestrial life, readers are likely to continue to be drawn to stories that explore the idea of aliens living among humans.

Modern Ideas: As technology advances and society changes, the portrayal of aliens in urban fantasy is likely to become more modern and innovative. Authors will likely incorporate new ideas.

Expanding Community: As the urban fantasy genre continues to expand, the community of readers and authors who are interested in the theme of aliens among us will probably grow as well. With the increasing interest in science and technology, this community is likely to become more diverse and inclusive, as authors explore new cultural perspectives and engage with readers from around the world.

10:30  (RECAP).

The Alien Among Us trope is common in science fiction. But we can also find it in urban fantasy. While this trope is more commonly found in science fiction, we can also use it in urban fantasy settings. In Resident Alien, a benign alien crash-lands on Earth and takes on the persona of a semi-retired doctor.

---

3/4 Alternate History: (WHO THIS IS FOR..) How does Alternate History incorporate classic urban fantasy tropes? What makes Alternate History unique and interesting? How does Alternate History challenge the reader's preconceived notions of fantasy? The estimated reading time is approximately eleven and a half minutes.

Importance (1-10): 8

Difficulty Level (Easy, Normal, Hard): Hard

Estimated Time to Master: 50-100 hours

Relevance Rating (1-10): 9

Real-World Application: Alternate history in urban fantasy tropes can offer a unique and intriguing spin on historical events, and provide a thought-provoking exploration of what might have been. It's challenging to create a believable alternate history that is consistent with the real-world events and social norms of the time. It requires a significant amount of research and a deep understanding of the historical context. The application of this trope can be seen in popular urban fantasy series like The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher and The Laundry Files by Charles Stross, which both explore alternate historical timelines and their impact on contemporary society.

00:30  (OVERVIEW).

In urban fantasy, Alternate History is a common trope where the story is set in a world where historical events have unfolded differently than in our reality. This means that the story takes place in a world that is like ours but with significant differences in how events have played out.

For example, a story set in an alternate history may imagine a world where a major historical figure or event turned out differently. This includes if the Nazis had won World War II or if magic existed in the world during a particular era of history. This can create a rich and complex world for the story to take place in, as characters navigate the consequences of these altered events.

The Alternate History trope can add an element of mystery and intrigue to the urban fantasy genre, as readers are drawn into a world that is familiar yet different from our own. It can also allow for the exploration of important historical themes and events in a new and imaginative way.

01:30  FACTS AND FIGURES.

Alternate history differs from urban fantasy, so here are some common tropes of alternate history instead:

☛—Point of divergence: The story has a key event in history that happens differently, creating an alternate timeline.

☛—Historical figures: Important figures from history still exist but play out different roles in the alternate timeline.

☛—Political differences: Countries form differently, have different borders, or have different levels of power from our actual history.

☛—Technology: Technological advancements happen at different rates or in different ways than in our real history.

☛—Cultural changes: Art, music, fashion, and cultural movements change or don't exist because of the different timelines.

☛—Consequences explored: The broad consequences of the altered history are explored in political, social, and cultural terms.

☛—Plausibility: The alternate timeline and events are plausible given the point of divergence.

02:30  (GIVE IT A TRY).

Choose a historical event to alter: The first step is to choose a historical event that you want to alter in your story. This could be a major event like the outcome of a war, or a smaller event like the discovery of a new technology.

Create an urban setting: Once you have decided on the historical event, it's time to create an urban setting for your story. This could be a big city like New York or London or a smaller town with a supernatural twist.

Develop your protagonist: Your protagonist should be someone who is caught up in the altered timeline and has to navigate its complexities. They should have a unique set of skills or abilities that will help them confront the challenges that arise.

Introduce a supernatural element: In an urban fantasy story, there is some kind of supernatural element that is woven into the fabric of the world. This could be vampires, werewolves, wizards, or any other creature or entity you can imagine.

Establish the altered timeline: As you write, you should gradually establish the altered timeline in the story. We can do this through dialogue, descriptions, and actions that reveal the impact of the altered event on the world.

Create a conflict: Every good story needs a conflict, and an urban fantasy story is no exception. The conflict could be between the protagonist and an antagonist who wants to maintain the altered timeline, or it could be between the protagonist and another faction that wants to change the timeline again.

Add twists and turns: To keep your readers engaged, add twists and turns to the story. These could be unexpected plot developments, revelations about the supernatural elements in the story, or new historical events that come into play.

Explore the consequences of the altered timeline: Besides the conflict between the protagonist and the antagonist, you can also explore the consequences of the altered timeline. This can add depth and richness to the story, and help readers to understand the motivations and actions of the characters.

Resolve the conflict: As the story nears its end, the conflict should come to a head and be resolved in a satisfying way. This could involve a final confrontation between the protagonist and the antagonist, or a more subtle resolution that ties up all the loose ends.

Edit and revise: Once you have completed your first draft, go back through the story and edit and revise it. Look for typos, inconsistencies, and areas that need more development. Get feedback from beta readers to help you improve the story.

Share your story: Finally, once you are happy with your story, it's time to share it with the world. You can publish it online, submit it to literary magazines or anthologies, or even self-publish it as an e-book or paperback. Whatever you choose to do, celebrate your accomplishment and keep writing more stories!

03:30  (BOOKS AND REFERENCES).

https://gamerant.com/alternate-history-subgenre-explained/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternate_history

https://www.historians.org/research-and-publications/perspectives-on-history/january-2016/the-past-conditionally-alternative-history-in-speculative-fiction

04:30  (SELF-STUDY QUESTIONS).

- I.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a world where history has taken a different course because of a supernatural event or intervention?

- II.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a wizard and private investigator in an alternate version of Chicago where magic is real?

- III.) In Alternate History, what is the name of the protagonist who discovers that he can travel between alternate realities?

- IV.) What is the term used to describe a magical being who can transform into a wolf or other animal in urban fantasy?

- V.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a group of supernatural creatures who can live for centuries or even millennia?

- VI.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a vampire and private investigator in an alternate version of St. Louis where supernatural creatures have come out of hiding?

- VII.) In Alternate History, what event caused the protagonist's reality to diverge from the main timeline?

- VIII.) What is the term used to describe a magical object that is imbued with powerful spells and can perform supernatural feats in urban fantasy?

- IX.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a human who is born with magical abilities and can perform spells without external sources of magic?

- X.) In Alternate History, how does the protagonist's ability to travel between alternate realities play a role in the resolution of the story's conflict?

05:30  (TRUE OR FALSE?).

- I.) Urban fantasy can incorporate alternate history as a storytelling device.

- II.) Alternate history in urban fantasy sometimes involves supernatural or magical elements.

- III.) Urban fantasy authors must have a thorough understanding of historical events to incorporate alternate history effectively.

- IV.) Alternate history in urban fantasy is always used to create a more realistic and believable world.

- V.) Urban fantasy rarely explores the potential consequences of changing historical events.

- VI.) Alternate history is used to address issues of power and privilege in urban fantasy.

- VII.) Incorporating alternate history in urban fantasy can create a sense of nostalgia for readers.

- VIII.) Urban fantasy authors sometimes use alternate history to comment on current social and political issues.

- IX.) Alternate history in urban fantasy is used to explore the concept of identity and belonging.

- X.) Alternate history is a common trope in urban fantasy because it allows for greater creative freedom in world-building.

06:30  (KEEP LEARNING).

Subscribe to newsletters or join communities where you can discuss urban fantasy tropes, learn from industry professionals, and discover recent works that explore the Alternate History trope. Consider these steps to empower you to become a master of Alternate History in urban fantasy tropes:

Explore advanced Alternate History concepts. Set aside time to read urban fantasy works or engage with media that uses the Alternate History trope.

07:30  (FLASH CARD).

Front: Urban Fantasy Tropes

/?\ Q: What is the Alternate History trope in urban fantasy literature?

Back:

A: The Alternate History trope in urban fantasy refers to a story in which historical events are changed or reinterpreted to create a different timeline or reality.

Additional info 1: In urban fantasy, this trope sometimes involves the introduction of magical or supernatural elements that have a significant impact on history.

Additional info 2: Examples of Alternate History in urban fantasy include stories where magic played a decisive role in historical events like wars or political upheavals, or where magical creatures or beings influenced the course of human history. This trope can also explore themes of power, agency, and the consequences of actions, as characters must navigate a world that differs vastly from the one they know.

08:30  (TWEETS).

@instructor: Hi there! Today, we're going to talk about the urban fantasy trope of Alternate History. Are you familiar with it?

@student: Not really. What does that mean?

@instructor: Well, in urban fantasy, sometimes the story takes place in a world where history unfolded differently than it did in our world. For example, the Nazis might have won World War II, or the Roman Empire might still be around today.

@student: That's wild! But why would authors do that?

@instructor: It's a way of exploring what could have been if certain events in history had gone differently. By imagining these alternate worlds, authors can ask questions about power, politics, and what it means to be human.

@student: I see. But how do we know which events in history are different in an Alternate History story?

@instructor: It's explained in the world-building of the story. The author will give clues or outright explain what events in history were different, and how that has affected the world today. It's up to the reader to accept those changes and explore the world created by the author.

@student: That's pretty cool. Do you have any examples of Alternate History stories?

@instructor: One popular example is Philip K. Dick's The Man in the High Castle, which imagines a world where the Axis powers won World War II and divided America between them. Another is Alan Moore's Watchmen, which takes place in an alternate 1980s where superheroes are real and have affected the course of history.

@student: Wow, those sound really interesting! I'm excited to check them out.

@instructor: Urban fantasy is a great genre to explore because it allows us to imagine new worlds that are a little different from our own. I'm glad you're enjoying it!

09:30  (THE FUTURE).

Continued Growth: The alternate history genre is likely to continue to grow in urban fantasy tropes as readers seek new and engaging stories that explore different possibilities and timelines. As the world changes and new challenges emerge, authors will continue to imagine alternate realities that offer unique perspectives on the present.

Modern Ideas: With the rise of new technologies and the increasing complexity of modern society, the portrayal of alternate history in urban fantasy is likely to become more modern and innovative. Authors will incorporate new ideas like:

 - genetic engineering

 - artificial intelligence

 - climate change

to create interesting stories that challenge readers' assumptions and expand their imaginations.

Expanding Community: As the urban fantasy genre continues to expand, the community of readers and authors interested in alternate history will grow as well. This community is likely to become more diverse and inclusive, as authors explore new cultural perspectives and engage with readers from around the world. Through the exploration of alternate histories, readers and authors alike will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and possibilities of the world we live in.

10:30  (RECAP).

The genre sometimes crosses paths with alternate history, cosmic horror stories, dungeon punk, gothic punk, horror, magic realism, new weird, paranormal romance, paranormal investigation, science fantasy, supernatural fiction, and supernatural thriller. The genre uses the tropes of science fiction to explore time travel between histories, psychic awareness of the existence of an alternative universe, and time travel that divides history into assorted time streams. Urban fantasy sometimes crosses paths with alternate history, as it combines common fantasy conventions with a modern setting.

---

4/4 Anti-Hero: (WHO THIS IS FOR..) How does Anti-Hero use classic urban fantasy tropes? What makes Anti-Hero stand out from other fantasy stories? How does Anti-Hero explore the idea of an anti-hero protagonist? The estimated reading time is approximately eleven and a half minutes.

Importance (1-10): 9

Difficulty Level (Easy, Normal, Hard): Normal

Estimated Time to Master: 20-30 hours

Relevance Rating (1-10): 8

Real-World Application: The anti-hero trope in urban fantasy can add depth and complexity to the protagonist, and make for a more interesting and morally ambiguous story. It can also provide an opportunity to explore themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions. The application of this trope can be seen in popular urban fantasy series like The Hollows by Kim Harrison and The Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne, which both feature flawed and morally ambiguous protagonists who must navigate a complex and dangerous world.

00:30  (OVERVIEW).

In urban fantasy, Anti-Hero is a common trope where the protagonist is a character who lacks traditional heroic qualities. They may have negative traits like:

 - selfishness

 - cynicism

 - a willingness to use violence to achieve their goals

Despite their flaws, however, they are still the main character of the story and may even be the only one capable of saving the day.

The Anti-Hero trope can create a complex and morally ambiguous story, where the protagonist's actions may be questionable even when they are trying to do the right thing. This can add tension and conflict to the story, as the protagonist struggles to balance their own desires with the greater good.

The main character in the story may have a tragic backstory or traumatic experiences that have contributed to their flawed personality. But they may have redeeming qualities. This includes loyalty to their friends or a desire to protect the innocent. Overall, the Anti-Hero trope can add a layer of depth and complexity to the urban fantasy genre, as readers are drawn into the struggles and motivations of a flawed yet interesting protagonist.

01:30  FACTS AND FIGURES.

☛—Flawed protagonist: The main character is morally ambiguous and may act selfishly or use questionable means to achieve their goals.

☛—Grey morality: The distinction between good and evil is blurred, with anti-heroes existing in the grey area.

☛—Unconventional methods: Anti-heroes will use violence, deception or operate outside the law.

☛—Self-serving motives: The motivations of anti-heroes are more self-serving rather than for the greater good.

☛—Complex personality: Anti-heroes are sometimes complex and multifaceted characters with both likable and unlikable traits.

☛—Relatable struggles: Despite their flaws, anti-heroes have relatable struggles that audiences can sympathize with.

☛—Personal redemption: Some anti-heroes undergo an arc of personal redemption as they develop a conscience and moral code.

02:30  (GIVE IT A TRY).

Create an urban setting: The first step is to create an urban setting for your story. This could be a big city like New York or London or a smaller town with a supernatural twist.

Develop your anti-hero: Your anti-hero should be someone who is flawed and morally ambiguous, but still has an interesting story to tell. They should have a unique set of skills or abilities that will help them navigate the challenges that arise.

Introduce a supernatural element: In an urban fantasy story, there is some kind of supernatural element that is woven into the fabric of the world. This could be vampires, werewolves, wizards, or any other creature or entity you can imagine.

Create a conflict: Every good story needs a conflict, and an urban fantasy story is no exception. The conflict could be between the anti-hero and an opposing force, or it could be an internal conflict that the anti-hero must overcome.

Add depth to your anti-hero: To make your anti-hero more interesting, add depth to their character. This could include revealing their backstory, exploring their motivations and desires, and showing how they are affected by the supernatural elements in the story.

Explore the gray areas: An anti-hero is not a traditional hero, and their actions and decisions may not always be clearly right or wrong. Explore the gray areas of your story and challenge your readers to question their own moral compass.

Add twists and turns: To keep your readers engaged, add twists and turns to the story. These could be unexpected plot developments, revelations about the supernatural elements in the story, or new challenges that the anti-hero must face.

Create a supporting cast: While the anti-hero may be the focus of the story, create a supporting cast of characters that are equally interesting. These characters can help to flesh out the world and provide additional perspectives on the events in the story.

Resolve the conflict: As the story nears its end, the conflict should come to a head and be resolved in a satisfying way. This could involve the anti-hero making a hard decision, or it could be a more ambiguous ending that leaves the reader questioning what comes next.

Edit and revise: Once you have completed your first draft, go back through the story and edit and revise it. Look for typos, inconsistencies, and areas that need more development. Get feedback from beta readers to help you improve the story.

Share your story: Finally, once you are happy with your story, it's time to share it with the world. You can publish it online, submit it to literary magazines or anthologies, or even self-publish it as an e-book or paperback. Whatever you choose to do, celebrate your accomplishment and keep writing more stories!

03:30  (BOOKS AND REFERENCES).

https://knowyourarchetypes.com/anti-hero-archetype/

https://allthetropes.org/wiki/Anti-Hero

https://www.studysmarter.us/explanations/english-literature/literary-elements/anti-hero/

https://literarydevices.net/anti-hero-archetype/

04:30  (SELF-STUDY QUESTIONS).

- I.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a protagonist who lacks traditional heroic qualities, like morality, selflessness, and courage?

- II.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a vampire and former assassin, struggling to come to terms with her violent past?

- III.) In Anti-Hero, what is the name of the protagonist who is a supernatural creature with a dark past and a tendency toward violence?

- IV.) What is the term used to describe a magical ability? It allows a character to control the minds of others in urban fantasy.

- V.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a group of supernatural creatures who can turn humans into one of their own kind through a bite or other means?

- VI.) Which popular urban fantasy series features a protagonist who is a wizard and private investigator, known for his sarcastic wit and tendency to bend the rules?

- VII.) In Anti-Hero, what event in the protagonist's past led to her turning away from traditional heroism and embracing her darker impulses?

- VIII.) What is the term used to describe a magical being who feeds on the life force of others to sustain their own existence in urban fantasy?

- IX.) In urban fantasy, what is the term used to describe a powerful, ancient being who possesses immense magical abilities and sometimes acts as a mentor or antagonist to the protagonist?

- X.) In Anti-Hero, how does the protagonist's struggle with her darker impulses and violent tendencies play a role in the story's resolution?

05:30  (TRUE