Phantastes

A young man named Anodos experiences dream like adventures in Fairy Land, where he meets tree spirits, endures the presence of the overwhelming shadow, journeys to the palace of the fairy queen, and searches for the spirit of the earth. The story conveys a profound sadness and a poignant longing for death.
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George MacDonald (1824-1905) was a Scottish author, poet and Christian minister. A pioneer of fantasy literature, he was the mentor of Lewis Carroll. Among his notable works are 'Phantastes' (1858), 'David Elginbrod' (1863), 'At the Back of the North Wind' (1871), 'The Princess and the Goblin' (1872), and 'Lilith' (1895).