What does "magical realism" combine within its narrative?

• A. Strictly realistic events without embellishments
• B. Fantasy elements with realistic settings
• C. High fantasy characters in fantasy worlds
• D. Completely unrelated and nonsensical stories

Answer: (B)

Magical realism is characterized by its unique blend of magical elements with realistic settings, creating a narrative where the extraordinary is accepted as part of everyday life. This genre invites readers to embrace the fantastic alongside the mundane, often presenting magical occurrences in a matter-of-fact manner that highlights the coexistence of the two realms.

In magical realism, the fantastical elements are integrated into a realistic environment, which allows for profound exploration of themes such as identity, culture, and social issues. By combining these fantasy elements with realistic settings, authors can create rich, layered narratives that resonate deeply with readers' experiences, often revealing the extraordinary within the ordinary. This harmonious fusion is what distinguishes magical realism from pure fantasy or strictly realistic fiction, making it a distinctive and compelling narrative form.