Why does the fantasy genre have such a bad reputation?

[Chrischa]

Very interesting discussion. I agree that Fantasy is a study of myths, but I also think that it goes further then that; it broadens the mind to other possibilities. I think that, if you can integrate yourself in a completely made-up fantasy world with different laws, morals, religions and behaviours, it will also help you to form a deeper understanding towards Earthly cultures that are different from your own. I think that this, in combination with the study in mythology and history that it offers, is something which should not be underestimated.

But I also think that Fantasy is looked down upon because many people like to think of books as Art. The holy cow that must be worshipped. I spend ten years in art school and if there's one thing that is left with me from that time, it's a hatred of Art. That blasé attitude of being better and higher then anything else, something that must be revered and worshipped... bah. So I think that when these Arty people have to consider something like romance or fantasy to be part of their branch of Art, it makes them shiver in their shoes, and they'd much rather pretend it was beneath themselves.
Not to say anything bad about your uncle, though, Albertosaurus Rex, I'm sure he's a lovely person and it's most likely an opinion that's filtered down to him from other people, like so many things we do and feel.

That's my opinion anyway... it's something I feel quite strong about.