Episode 278: Sins of the Father - Inherited Curses, Crimes and Responsibilities in Speculative Fiction

'Sins of the Father' in SFF is a trope that is very popular without many people really knowing what it is. But who doesn't love a bloodline curse? Or a hero who fears they will not be able to live up to an illustrious (potentially evil or erring) forebear? Who doesn't find narrative satisfaction in a main character being punished for something an ancestor did, rather than simply because the universe is unjust? This week the dragons dig deep on just why this trope appeals, linking it with revenge arcs, character development and just what we can all take away from the trope in real life.

On the slab this week: Lord of the Rings, The Little White Horse - Elizabeth Goudge, The Punisher and many more.

 

Title music: Ecstasy by Smiling Cynic