Magic plays an important role in fantasy literature as well as in traditional literature. Whether it's Jack and his magic beans or Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings," the ability to conjure up supernatural powers counts as a common thread that runs through these stories. Very often these themes also center around the effect that magic has on its bearer and to those around him, instead of solely on the interesting things that the magic can do. For example, in "The Lord of the Rings," the magic of the One Ring gives Sauron great power, but has a devastating effect on the races of men, elves and hobbits who try to wield its power.