Monsters and Morals: From Polish Folklore to Fantasy Phenomenon
No book blog about Polish-inspired fantasy could be complete without mentioning The Witcher Series by Andrzej Sapkowski, who has a huge international cult following and is probably one of the most famous Polish writers of our time.
Andrzej Sapkowski’s “The Witcher” series is a remarkable foray into the depths of fantasy, blending the traditional with the unique. Set in a fairy-tale medieval Europe, the series revolves around Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher – a genetically enhanced sword-for-hire tasked with slaying monsters. However, his adventures delve into the complexities of justice, good, and evil.
The series is enriched with a cast of compelling characters: the powerful sorceress Yennefer, the enigmatic Ciri, a warrior-princess with the ability to traverse time and space, and Dandelion, Geralt’s loyal friend and minstrel.
The Series at a Glance:
- The Last Wish — A short story collection, which is commonly recommended as a starting point to the series. The first season of the Netflix serial “The Witcher” is based on this book. The timeline of this first collection (and season 1) is fragmented.
- Sword of Destiny — A short story collection, often recommended as book of the series, since it continues many of the stories from The Last Wish.
- Blood of Elves — A full-length novel, continuing the story of Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri.
- The Time of Contempt
- Baptism of Fire
- The Tower of Swallows
- Lady of the Lake — Often seen as the final novel in The Witcher saga, Ciri has entered another dimension, where she seem to travel through time.
- Season of Storms — This short story collection is seen as a kind of epilogue to the Witcher saga.
The novels are a deep dive into Polish mythology, bringing to life creatures like strzygas and kikimoras. This aspect was particularly fascinating, offering a glimpse into a rich, less-explored mythological world.
However, the series is marked by intense violence, catering to an adult audience. (Read: NOT FOR KIDS.)
A striking difference from the television adaptation is the portrayal of Geralt. In the books, he is far from the stoic figure seen on screen. Instead, he’s a deeply philosophical and talkative character, often engaging in profound discussions with Dandelion about morality. This introspective version of Geralt adds layers to the character and the narrative, enriching the reader’s experience.
Sapkowski’s series is more than a fantasy saga; it’s a complex exploration of philosophical themes, set against a backdrop of rich Slavic folklore and relentless action. While the graphic violence might not be for everyone, the series offers a unique and engaging experience, especially for those intrigued by the depth and diversity of European mythology.
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