THE FANTASY GENRE IN ENGLISH LITERATURE IN THE WORKS OF J. R. R. TOLKIEN

The fantasy genre occupies a significant position in English literature, particularly through the literary contributions of John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, whose works transformed the development of modern fantasy fiction. This article examines the characteristic features of the fantasy genre through an analysis of Tolkien's major works, including The Hobbit (1937), The Lord of the Rings (1954–1955), and The Silmarillion (1977). The study aims to identify the principal literary devices, narrative structures, mythological elements, and philosophical ideas that contribute to the distinctive nature of Tolkien's fantasy world. The research employs qualitative textual analysis, comparative literary analysis, and a descriptive-analytical approach. The findings demonstrate that Tolkien's literary achievement is based on the creation of a coherent secondary world, the integration of mythology and linguistic invention, the development of morally complex characters, and the use of universal themes such as courage, friendship, sacrifice, power, and responsibility. The article concludes that Tolkien's works represent a foundational contribution to modern fantasy literature and continue to influence contemporary writers, literary criticism, and popular culture.