Phantasmion by Sara Coleridge
"Phantasmion" is a fantasy tale centered around the adventures of its titular character, Phantasmion, the king of the magical realm of Palmland. The narrative explores his quest to win the heart of Princess Iarine while simultaneously defending his kingdom from the formidable Glandreth of Rockland, who represents a significant military threat due to his access to metal resources for weaponry. The story intricately weaves in elements of magical realism, featuring malevolent spirits like Seshelma and Melledine that create additional challenges for Phantasmion.
Despite the obstacles he faces, including imprisonment and deception by dark forces, Phantasmion is supported by his guardian spirit, Potentilla, who grants him unique abilities. As the story unfolds, he gains allies, including Penselimer and Ulander, and discovers iron mines that empower his struggle. Ultimately, Phantasmion's determination leads to his victory over his adversaries, the restoration of rightful rulers in neighboring kingdoms, and the successful union with Princess Iarine, symbolizing triumph and unity. The tale not only emphasizes courage and perseverance but also highlights themes of love, friendship, and the importance of solidarity against adversity.
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Phantasmion
First published: 1837
Type of work: Novel
Type of plot: Fantasy—magical world
Time of work: Undefined
Locale: Palmland and four other imaginary kingdoms
The Plot
The story follows the fantastic adventures of Phantasmion, king of the imaginary realm of Palmland, as he tries to acquire as his queen the island Princess Iarine and to protect his kingdom from invasion by the mighty conqueror Glandreth of neighboring Rockland. One of his difficulties is that his fertile, agricultural kingdom of Palmland has no metal for armor and weapons, whereas Rockland is rich in metals and its people skilled in manufacturing. He is opposed not only by human enemies but also by malevolent spirits, such as Seshelma, “the fishy woman” who lives in the sea, and Melledine, who can induce sleep and derange the senses.
Phantasmion has only his own courage and ideals and the aid of his guardian spirit Potentilla, the fairy queen of the insects, who provides him with wings and other insect attributes appropriate for his different encounters. Phantasmion has many trials: He is imprisoned, detained in a cave, and rendered insensible by both magic potions and beatings. He often is deceived by the spells and disguises of evil spirits. The magic silver pitcher that bestows on its possessor the love of Iarine continually eludes him and remains in the hands of his enemies.
Phantasmion’s perseverance begins to prevail. He finds human allies in Penselimer, king of Almaterra, and Ulander, chieftain of Nemorosa. Three spirits—Valhorga, the god of the underworld, Feyeldeen, the fairy queen of flowers, and Oloola, goddess of the storm—switch their allegiance to his side. Phantasmion also finds iron mines in Gemmaura, a neighboring province under his control. Phantasmion’s enemies are vanquished, the rightful rulers are placed on the thrones of all the neighboring kingdoms and unite in peace with Palmland, and three weddings bring happiness to the worthiest of the young people, especially Phantasmion, who at last acquires the silver pitcher and the hand of Iarine.