THE APPLICATION OF THE FANTASY GENRE IN URSULA LE GUIN’S "THE LEFT HAND OF DARKNESS" AND ITS IMPACT ON LITERATURE

Abstract

Ursula K. Le Guin’s The Left Hand of Darkness (1969) represents a pivotal work in speculative fiction, merging elements of science fiction and fantasy to craft a thoughtprovoking narrative. While frequently classified as science fiction, the novel employs fantasy conventions such as rich world-building, mythological frameworks, and symbolic storytelling. This paper examines Le Guin’s integration of fantasy within The Left Hand of Darkness, analyzing how it challenges traditional genre boundaries and critiques societal norms. Further, it explores the novel's lasting impact on literary discourse, particularly its innovative treatment of gender, identity, and cultural relativism, which has inspired subsequent speculative fiction narratives