Hello!!!!
How do you view such types of characters making an appearance in high fantasy stories where the setting is similar to that of the medieval ages? Is it a rare thing to see such types of characters in high fantasy novels?
I think as long as it fits the "meta" of the world, it's fine. Though genetically the bodies are different and women will typically be weaker than male counterparts in the majority of physical competitions, that does not rule them out from being capable warriors, hunters, mages, etc. So long as there is drive, mentorship, and experience, gender is merely an identifier. Thus, for me, as long as there is a good enough foundation to explain the
why when a woman beats a man, I don't really think twice about it. Then again I also expect the same
why to be provided when it's two dudes fighting.
In High Fantasy, the gender-gap is even less necessary and can be thrown out entirely (unless there is a plot device with keeping it). Not because of the "Fantasy" setting, but because of what that Fantasy setting brings to the table in terms of available tools for an individual. There are far more things within these worlds that erase the Male genetic "betterness" when it comes to physical ability. Women in such settings can utilize magic to enhance their bodies or cast aside physical fighting entirely for magic, something that doesn't care about whether you dangle or not. There are many other ways that "Betterness" gets nullified but I just use magic as an example.
Even in the real world, women have shown that they are just as capable even without those Fantasy-esque buffs. They have regularly shown just as much will and drive to do what most men are scared to do; go to war and fight. Time and time again we see in battlefield history that women have either snuck into the ranks to fight or volunteered for it. That evidence shows that the mindset to face danger, choose violence, and take up arms in defense of oneself/country isn't just a Male one. Thus, we can say that women, with proper motivation and "Excuse", will face the same challenges men will. Beyond war and conflict, women have regularly taken roles alongside their husbands to provide for their families and, like any mother in nature, will do anything required to ensure their offspring have the best chance at life that they can provide.
Of course, this isn't a universal rule as back in the day when gender-roles were less blurred and more clear cut (Males Hunt, Women tend to Young) most women just remained within the villages and didn't challenge or really break the mold. It's more when civilization expands, changes, and the opportunity presents itself that we see gender not really matter. There's also more "aggressive" cultures where we see women take on a wider range of roles than just house warmers. Viking Women, for example.
I'm ranting so I'ma stop here.
