The last epic fantasy series I read, and the current trilogy I am reading, both focus on the main character’s illegitimate birth, although neither author uses that term. I suppose because the phrase “bastard son” is more eye-opening and flirts at the edge of acceptable language usage. The issue for me, however, is not politeness — There is no inherent power in a word unused; it’s goodness or badness depends solely on how it is flung at people.
My issue is with the basic misogyny at the foundation of someone being a bastard.Western society’s definition of the word relates 100% to the martial status of the father. It is a patrilineal concept not typically found in cultures that value women in their own right. In fact, in the United States in the 21st century – it is no longer seen as important. Women are entitled to birth children, whenever and with whomever they wish (unless it’s incestuous or something; that’s still weird.)
Fantasy books involved a tremendous amount of world building. So why do authors trip up on this point? That is what I don’t understand. The female characters can be bad-ass warriors, decorated soldiers, rulers and wizened ancients. But it still comes down to their being chattel valued only for the male genital allowed between their legs.
Let me add here, that I’m not talking Sci-Fi Porn – these are otherwise well-written, spellbinding, exciting stories.