There are many elements that show up throughout the fantasy genre in different guises. Worldbuilding in particular has many common conventions, as do, to a lesser extent, plot and characterization.

• Destiny
  • Stableboy becomes king (or the like)
  • Prophecy
• Good vs. Evil
  • Downfall of a tyrannical ruler or evil wizard
• Magic
  • Magical Artifacts
    • Swords
    • Gems
    • Stones
• Medieval (usually European) Setting
  • Feudal Government
  • Primitive technology (almost always pre-gunpowder)
• Mythological Creatures
  • Dragons
  • Gryphons
  • Non-Human Races (or variants of them specific to each work)
    • Dwarves
    • Elves
    • Fairies
    • Trolls
• Quests