I’m trying to write a fantasy novel using the common trope of a conquered people rising up against an oppressive empire. My main character is a legendary female general who is tall, muscular, and is extremely skilled in swordsmanship and physical combat. She has a tragic backstory, brutal in battle, but also cares deeply about her troops.
The most important thing about her though, is her ability to inspire her fellow troops around her. Through a combination of her battle feats, her legendary war speeches, and her silent charisma, her army never envisions defeat in the face of the enemy, only victory.
The problem: I’m struggling to find similar characters in the high fantasy genre. Basically every strong female character I’ve read about is only strong because of magic or some special ability, almost never just physically strong. Also, I’ve rarely, if ever, seen female generals leading armies in main conflicts. If yall know any characters like this, I would appreciate it.
by ResponsiblePlane4434
1 Comment
Historically there’s been a few.
Joan of Arc, Olga of Kyiv, Khutulun, Zheng Yi Sao, Fu Hao, Artemisia of Halicarnassus, Cynane of Macedon, Boudicca, Zenobia.
In literature, there’s fewer I can think of.
Hua Mulan, Gordafarid, Honor Harrington, Nausicaa,