Minefields
Minefields are locations where explosive mines have been buried. These areas may be in fields, along borders, along roads, in no man’s land, or they may be underwater minefields or space minefields. Minefields often remain after a conflict has ended, so fictional worlds may include old minefields that pose hazards. There may be hidden routes through a minefield known only to a few.
| Synonyms: mined lands |
| Example Mythonyms: Northern Exclusion Zone, No Man’s Land |
Designing Fictional Minefields
Archetypes
Overview
Fictional minefields are often found in muddy fields, destroyed forests, or in locations that are in juxtaposition to the danger the mines present, such as flower fields or peaceful meadows. As minefields are created to deter or slow an attack, they are often located on borders between hostile nations or on the battlefield.
Mines
Fictional minefields often contain mines that are unique or display unusual or fictionalized properties. They may be highly magnetic, they may self-activate, they may possess programming or intelligence that allows them to pose a greater threat.
Real World Context
The use of mines in warfare is controversial. They are indiscriminate in their targets and can remain active long after a conflict has ended. International efforts have been made to ban their use.
