FictionDefined

FictionDefined is an online platform dedicated to the systematic analysis and classification of fictional works across literature, film, television, and digital media. The project was launched in 2015 by a coalition of literary scholars and data scientists with the aim of providing a comprehensive, searchable database that documents narrative structures, thematic motifs, and character archetypes. The name “FictionDefined” reflects its mission to offer clear definitions and frameworks for what constitutes fiction in various cultural contexts.

The core of FictionDefined is its taxonomy of narrative elements, which includes genre tags, plot device categories, and intertextual references. Users can browse works by grouping criteria such as “Science Fiction with Dystopian Settings” or “Fantasy featuring Non-Human Protagonists.” Each entry in the database contains metadata such as publication date, creator, medium, and a concise synopsis. The platform also hosts scholarly essays that discuss trends in genre evolution and the impact of technological change on storytelling forms.

In addition to static listings, FictionDefined offers analytical tools that allow researchers to visualize citation networks between works, to track the diffusion of specific tropes, and to compare the prevalence of certain character archetypes across time periods. The project has collaborated with major libraries and academic institutions to ensure data accuracy and sustainability. Though currently a volunteer-driven initiative, FictionDefined has begun to secure institutional funding to expand its digital infrastructure and to support user-driven data curation.