Scifi Midterm

Scientific Romance

Early SF stories that seem more about adventure than science (H.G. Wells and Jules Verne.)

Scientifiction

Coined by Hugo Gernsback in the 1920s, this term was an early attempt to define science fiction as a genre combining scientific fact with fiction.

SF (sf)

abbreviation for science fiction, sometimes debated as meaning speculative fiction

Science Fantasy

A subgenre blending elements of both science fiction and fantasy, such as Star Wars

Pulp Magazines

Cheaply printed magazines from the early 20th century that featured sensational adventure stories, including early sci-fi.

Hard Science Fiction

A subgenre emphasizing scientific accuracy and technical details, often involving physics, engineering, and space exploration

Soft Science Fiction

A subgenre focused on social sciences like psychology, sociology, and politics rather than hard sciences

Utopia

A depiction of an ideal or perfect society, often used in speculative fiction

Dystopia

A portrayal of a future society that is oppressive, nightmarish, or dysfunctional

Cyberpunk

A subgenre set in high-tech, dystopian futures with themes of hacking, artificial intelligence, and corporate control

Steampunk

A subgenre inspired by Victorian-era technology and aesthetics, often featuring steam-powered machinery

Afrofuturism

A movement that explores science fiction, fantasy, and technology through an African or African diaspora perspective (Black Panther)

Space Opera

A subgenre focused on grand, adventurous narratives set in space, often featuring battles, empires, and heroism

Post-apocalyptic

Stories set after a catastrophic event has destroyed civilization, such as nuclear war or a plague

New Wave

A movement in the 1960s-70s that emphasized experimental storytelling, deeper psychological themes, and social critique

Alternate / Parallel Universe

A concept where different versions of reality exist, often used in time travel or multiverse stories

Hugo Awards

Annual awards for excellence in science fiction and fantasy writing, named after Hugo Gernsback.

Nebula Awards

Annual awards presented by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA) for outstanding sci-fi and fantasy literature.

Transhumanism

A philosophy and sci-fi theme focused on using technology to enhance or transcend human limitations

Sad Puppies / Rabid Puppies

Controversial groups that attempted to influence the Hugo Awards in the 2010s by pushing for more "traditional" sci-fi and against diversity-focused narratives.