Communities of fantasy are typically centered around a particular fandom, such as Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or Star Wars, and are united by their shared love and fascination with the fictional world and its characters. These communities can take many forms, from online forums and social media groups to in-person gatherings and conventions. Members of these communities often engage in a variety of activities together, such as creating fan fiction, cosplay, and artwork, participating in role-playing games, and discussing and analyzing the world and its mythology.
For many individuals, communities of fantasy provide a safe and supportive space in which they can explore their creativity and connect with others who share their interests. These communities can also serve as a means of escape from the stresses and pressures of everyday life, allowing members to immerse themselves in a world of their own making and to feel a sense of belonging and camaraderie with others who share their passion.
An example of communities of fantasy in an online setting can be seen in the Harry Potter fan fiction community on the website Archive of Our Own (AO3). This community consists of individuals who are passionate about the Harry Potter universe and who have created their own stories and characters set within that world. Members of this community read and comment on each other's work, offer feedback and support, and engage in discussions about the mythology of the Harry Potter universe. Through their shared passion for this fictional world, members of this community have formed connections and friendships that extend beyond the confines of the online space, demonstrating the power of communities of fantasy to bring people together around a common interest.
