A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FOLKLORE AND FANTASY IN THE WORKS OF NEIL GAIMAN AND J.R.R. TOLKIEN

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between folklore and fantasy in the literary works of Neil Gaiman and J.R.R. Tolkien, focusing particularly on American Gods and The Hobbit. The study explores how traditional myths, legends, and folkloric motifs are transformed into modern fantasy narratives. Using a comparative literary analysis within the IMRaD structure, the article investigates the similarities and differences between Tolkien’s classical fantasy approach and Gaiman’s contemporary reinterpretation of mythological traditions. The research identifies the role of folklore in shaping fictional worlds, characters, symbolism, and cultural identity. Furthermore, the article highlights the influence of mythology on narrative structure and thematic development. The findings demonstrate that both authors successfully preserve folkloric heritage while adapting it to the literary expectations of different historical periods and audiences