From Cosmic Fluidity to Rebellious Intimacy: The Evolution of Queer Fantasy from the Mahabharata to Mo Dao Zu Shi

Abstract

This research paper traces the evolution of queer representation in fantasy literature through a comparative analysis of the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata between c. 400 BCE–400 CE and the contemporary Chinese danmei novel Mo Dao Zu Shi, which is also known as Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation, 2015–2016 by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. Despite separation by over two millennia and distinct cultural contexts, both works deploy fantasy frameworks. One concentrates on the divine transformation while the other deals with spiritual cultivation, but both engage in the identities and relationships that challenge heteronormative structures. This paper argues that the Mahabharata establishes a paradigm of queerness as cosmic instrumentality, wherein gender fluidity serves karmic or dharmic purposes, while MDZS represents a shift toward queerness as rebellious intimacy, wherein queer bonds become the emotional and moral center that exposes systemic hypocrisy.