Mind control is a fairly uncommon element in a fantasy series. It is more often seen in sci-fi than it is in fantasy. But that does not mean that fantasy featuring mind control does not exist. There are many great fantasy novels that include elements of mind control, persuasion, and the like. Keep reading to find out more about this fascinating genre and the elements that make it up.Â
Fantasy Featuring Mind Control
Mind control is a popular element in fiction. It is also sometimes seen portrayed as brainwashing, thought control, menticide, or coercive persuasion. No matter how an author portrays mind control, it is essentially the same thing. A person or other entity is being forced to do or think things outside of their control. They are no longer in charge of their own thoughts and actions.
There are many ways that mind control plays out in fantasy. It can be performed by another being, such as a mage, or by an inanimate object, such as a helmet. No matter how the author chooses to feature mind control, the end result is the same.
Mind control is often part of the magic system in a fantasy novel. It could be an ability that someone is born with, or it could be something that they learn and train to do. Though mind control may be more popular in sci-fi novels, it makes a great addition to the fantasy genre, as well.
As we will see below, fantasy authors use mind control in a variety of ways. It is often used as a weapon, but there are cases in which it is used for good. Mind control in and of itself is not something that is typically considered morally correct, so it is generally used for evil in fantasy literature.
Examples of Fantasy Featuring Mind Control
Mind control is featured in fantasy in a variety of ways. The novels and series below each demonstrate how different stories can be, even when they are in the same genre. Fantasy featuring mind control plays out in so many different ways.Â
There is mind control used for good and mind control used for evil. Mind control can be used against the main character, or it can be used by the main character. If you are looking for a great fantasy novel or series that features mind control, look no further than the examples below. Any of these novels or series could be a good place to start if you want to get into this genre.Â
The Traitor God
The Traitor God is the first novel in the Age of Tyranny series by Cameron Johnston. This novel can be read as a standalone, but it is actually part of a duology. It is full of action, magic, and betrayal. There are epic battle scenes, incredible magicians and sorcerers, and fascinating characters.
This novel follows a young mage who is reviled because his specific power is mind control. He is an outcast of society and is on the run hiding from demons. When he returns home to avenge his friend’s wrongful death, he is faced with all kinds of obstacles.
Mind control plays a big part in this novel and the sequel. The city is full of horror and the main character is forced to use his powers for both good and evil. This story is certainly a page-turner. It is a great start if you are looking to get into fantasy featuring mind control.
Raven’s ShadowÂ
The Raven’s Shadow is a series of novels by Anthony Ryan. There are three novels in the main series, but several spinoffs and sequel novels in the canon, as well. This series is a high fantasy featuring an in-depth world, an intricate magic system, and a massive catalog of characters. There are several different genres throughout the series, so just about every fan of high fantasy will be able to enjoy this series.Â
The mind control aspects of this series are most heavily featured in the second novel, Tower Lord. It would be smart to read the first novel before diving into Tower Lord, as there are many characters and storylines from the first novel that carry over into the second. If you are just looking for mind control stories, Tower Lord is going to fill that desire, but the other novels in the series are just as interesting and intriguing in their own ways.
This series follows Vaelin Al Sonora, who is the greatest warrior of his time. He is destined for a future that has been predetermined for him. As he goes about his training he is faced with many obstacles and trials that require him to develop a knack for mind control. Throughout this series, there are battles, murder, betrayal, and plenty of magic. It’s got a lot to offer.Â
The Prince of NothingÂ
The Prince of Nothing is a fantasy trilogy by R. Scott Baker, with publication dates ranging from 2003-2006. This world is full of humans with special abilities, as well as immortal beings who have gone mad, and a race of aliens.Â
This series follows a warrior who is taking control of a war, as well as taking control of the hearts and minds of the leaders of the war. This warrior possesses amazing abilities of persuasion and prediction. He is able to gently control those around him without them ever noticing what is happening.Â
This series also heavily features themes of religion, philosophy, and metaphysics. It is an interesting and thought-provoking series that will leave the reader with more questions about the universe than answers. There are some very deep themes and elements in this story that are both interesting and often hard to approach. It is definitely a series worth giving a try, and it will likely have you scratching your head by the end.Â
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped clarify what this genre is all about and given you some ideas of books to read in this subgenre.
And if you want to read more about unique fantasy subgenres on this blog, check out:
Lastly, feel free to leave a message in the comments below if you have questions about this or another fiction-literature-related topic!
