Function of Fanciful Motives in Present Czech Literature for Children

In my thesis paper entitled "The Function of Fanciful Motives in Present Czech Literature for Children" I begin by theoretically exploring the problems of fantasy literature and fantasy motifs. I then discuss the lives and work of various authors and focus on an analysis of their literary works with child heroes and fantasy motifs. I have selected texts for interpretation on the basis of the following conditions: the books are specifically intended for children and adolescents; the stories have a realistic level and the fantasy area is somehow part of this; the fantasy world is logically incorporated into the fictional world corresponding to our everyday experiences and this imaginary world therefore applies to real life; the fantasy motifs serve a specific function; and the fantasy motifs appear as an equal element to the realistic ones. The following works in particular are examined in this thesis paper: Emma and the Magic Book by Petra Braunová, Gabriela's Magic World by Pavel Brycz, The Enchanted Classroom by Ivona Březinová, Lenka and Nelka or AHA by Daniela Fischerová, The Magic Saturdays by Miloš Kratochvíl, Ghosts from Nerudova Street by Ivana Vostřáková and the books Wednesday Tastes Good, The Main Victory, The Owl's Song, Jožin goes to Africa, Eliáš and the Grandma from the Egg, Where has..