Abstract

In this thesis I explore the concept of transformational learning through the reading of and immersion into the world of fantasy fiction with an application to my own biography. I explore the way fantasy literature has played a part in my own self-discovery and aim to explain how fantasy fiction can be used for educational and not merely entertainment purposes. By exploring the works of theorists such as Mezirow, Greene, Freire and Dashiell, amongst others, I try to make the case for fantasy fiction to become another tool with which classroom teachers can teach intangible concepts to their students such as integrity, passion, valour, and compassion. I also explore the value of fantasy fiction and imagination as integral parts of learning. I then discuss the way fantasy fiction compares to and integrates with our ordinary world in order to bring about an extraordinary learning experience. Finally, I posit that with the integration of fantasy literature into the classroom, we may open up, for some students and teachers, yet another way of acquiring or imparting knowledge in a safe, neutral environment, where ideas can be shared and discussed openly, leading to transformational experiences in learning and self-discovery.