THE THEME OF A GAME OF GODS IN THE WORKS OF MICHAEL MOORCOCK

Abstract

The paper analyzes the theme of a game of gods in the work of M. Moorcock, a key representative of the British New Wave of science fiction. The sources of ideas about the game of higher powers are traced, which was declared back in the era of Antiquity, and in the following centuries did not lose its relevance. It is concluded that the theme of playing deities is cross-cutting in the works of M. Moorcock and, while maintaining the idea of the struggle of the forces of Good and Evil, declared in the fantasy genre, the theme of the cosmic game of Order and Chaos begins to appear clearly, and they play not only among themselves, but and with people (or other races) who are conceptualized as pieces on the game board.