Magical Realism in Contemporary English Fiction

Abstract

Magical realism is a distinctive literary mode that blends realistic settings with extraordinary or supernatural elements presented as ordinary aspects of everyday life. In contemporary English fiction, magical realism enables writers to explore history, identity, memory, culture, and social transformation through imaginative narratives. This paper examines the characteristics of magical realism, its development in contemporary English literature, and its significance as a literary technique. It argues that magical realism broadens narrative possibilities by challenging conventional perceptions of reality while encouraging readers to reflect on complex human experiences.