Heroic or epic fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy often inspired by Celtic, Norse or Greek mythology, typically set in an alternate world where magic is real. Also known as high fantasy, the setting of epic or heroic fantasy may be medieval, ancient or technologically backward, and can include mythological or fantastic beings. One common feature or recurring theme is that of a main character who lives a conventional life until something happens to change their life completely, transforming them into a hero. The Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R Tolkien is one of the best-known examples of epic fantasy.
