Science Fiction Chapter One

Preliminaries, Precursors, Wells

Mark Rose

-A “handy definition” of SF is “neither possible nor desirable.”
• Best bet: SF stories “either portray a world that is in some respect different from our own [or]
describe the impact of some strange element upon our world.”
• Better approach than definition: SF is an historically evolving process rather than a fixed thing;
the stream rather than the fish in it.

Darko Suvin

• SF requires cognitive estrangement
• “Novum”
• Extrapolative model
• Analogical model

Cognitive Estrangement

being analytical (cognitive) about a world made alien to our actual experience (estrangement) in order to encourage readers to question “common
assumptions about the order of things.”

Novum

a “strange newness”; some scientific discovery, technological advancement, or other
feature that distinguishes the SF world from our own.

Extrapolative Model

Based on the world as it is and plausible assumptions about its future,
let’s project forward to imagine what might emerge in order to engage in social critique

Analogical Model

Imagine an entirely different world, not a future version of our own, and compare it to our world in order to engage in social critique.

Enlightenment

Reason (science)—1660 (Royal Society of London)-1789 (French Revolution)

Leads to scientific, rationalistic, empirical treatment of social and moral problems.
The soul does not exist; we’re machines made of meat, mere flesh without spirit

Newton’s Principia Mathematica

solves every scientific problem then known (enlightenment era)

Outcomes of Enlightenment

Dehumanization, French Revolution as bloodbath, disappointment of intellectuals

Romanticism

imagination (fiction)—1789 (French Revolution)-~1900 (20th C)

Embraces the soul, the spirit, passion as what is most important about us.
Individuality, originality, rebellion, nonconformity.
Whole is greater than sum of its parts: synthesis vs. analysis; union w/nature vs. dissection

Outcomes of Romanticism

Will to power, Nietzsche, Napoleon as hero

Metatextuality

This concept involves layers of meaning that reflect on the nature of storytelling, often blurring the line between fiction and reality. It allows authors to engage with their audience by acknowledging the act of creation and the conventions of the medium. Examples include works that break the fourth wall or those that analyze their own narrative structure.

The sublime

A quality that inspires great admiration or awe, often associated with beauty that transcends ordinary experiences. It evokes strong emotions, such as wonder or terror, and is often linked to nature, art, or experiences that challenge human understanding. The concept has roots in philosophy and aesthetics, emphasizing the interplay between the vastness of the universe and human perception.

Exposition

A narrative technique used to introduce background information, setting, and characters to the audience. It establishes context for the story and helps readers understand the situation and motivations of the characters. Commonly found at the beginning of a story, it can also be woven throughout the narrative.

Wells, The Time Machine

This science fiction novel explores time travel, social class disparities, and evolution. The protagonist journeys to the distant future, encountering the Eloi and Morlocks, representing different societal outcomes. It critiques industrialization and warns about the consequences of unchecked technological advancement. The narrative raises questions about humanity's fate and the nature of progress.

Lucian, True History

Written by a Greek author, this narrative features a fantastical journey to the Moon and encounters with various mythical creatures and societies. It critiques contemporary beliefs and explores themes of reality versus fiction, highlighting the absurdities of human nature and society.

Thomas More, Utopia

a work that depicts an ideal society on an imaginary island, exploring themes of political philosophy and social reform Thomas More is the author of this influential 1516 text, which critiques contemporary society and presents a vision of communal living, equality, and justice. The narrative raises questions about governance, property, and human nature.

The Blazing World, Margaret Cavendish

A 17th-century work blending science fiction and philosophical discourse, featuring a protagonist who discovers a parallel universe. The narrative explores themes of gender, power, and the nature of reality through fantastical elements and imaginative worlds. The author, a pioneering woman in literature, challenges societal norms and presents a unique perspective on authority and creativity.

Gulliver’s Travels, Jonathan Swift

A satirical novel published in 1726 that follows the adventures of a shipwrecked traveler who encounters various strange societies and creatures. The story critiques human nature, politics, and society through fantastical lands like Lilliput and Brobdingnag, highlighting themes of perspective, power, and morality.

Frankenstein, Shelley

A novel that explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God. It tells the story of a scientist who creates a sentient being, leading to tragic outcomes. The narrative raises questions about humanity, ethics, and the nature of monstrosity. The work is a cornerstone of Gothic literature and is often regarded as one of the first science fiction novels.

The Balloon Hoax, Edgar Allen Poe

It features a fictional account of a man who claims to have traveled across the Atlantic Ocean in a hot air balloon. The narrative explores themes of adventure and the public's fascination with scientific advancements, ultimately blurring the lines between reality and fiction.

The Journey To the Center of the Earth, Jules Verne

A science fiction novel published in 1864, it follows the adventures of a professor, his nephew, and a guide as they embark on an expedition to explore the Earth's interior. They encounter various prehistoric creatures and geological phenomena, revealing the wonders and dangers hidden beneath the surface. The story combines elements of adventure, exploration, and scientific curiosity, showcasing the imagination of its author.