Introduction to Science Fiction

What is Science Fiction? Science fiction is a writing style which combines science and fiction. It is constrained by what we presently regard as the basic physical laws of nature. It is closely related to the fantasy genre.

Science Fiction VS. Fantasy In Science Fiction, there needs to be some possibility that the events could happen. In Fantasy, the author can use far-fetched assumptions, e.g.; unicorns, three- legged creatures, magic, etc.

Sci Fi Definitions Robert A. Heinlein, author: Science fiction is "realistic speculation about possible future events, based solidly on adequate knowledge of the real world, past and present, and on a thorough understanding of the nature and significance of the scientific method"

It is a common science fiction convention that authors should not contradict known scientific fact (e.g., humans flying without on their own without the use of devices), but may do what they wish with commonly- accepted scientific theory (e.g., humans flying to distant planets in a space shuttle). The author of fantasy does not feel such restraints.

Some experts view Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein as the first science fiction novel. She used a scientific rationale to persuade the reader that her story took place in the realm of the possible. Sci-Fi History

H. G. Wells Scholars recognize Wells as the grandfather of English science fiction and the first true science-fiction writer. His novels include: The Time Machine (1895) Island of Dr. Malroux 1896) War of the Worlds (1898)

The Four Motifs of Science Fiction Space Travel Time Travel to the past and future (ie: Back to the Future) Super-Advanced Technology Utopian/Dystopian Society These words are OPPOSITES Both are

The Four Motifs of Science Fiction Perfection No War, Poverty, or Suffering Happiness Equality and Freedom Chaos Mass-poverty War No individual freedom Everything is controlled!!! UTOPIAN DYSTOPIAN

Supernormal powers/talents (ie: Superman, Spiderman, Batman) Science applied to human relations for constructive or destructive purposes (ie: Weird Science) Battle with alien life forms (ie: Signs) Alternate Universe (ie: Star Wars) Other Plot Elements

Science Fiction Story Ideas The Last Man/Woman on Earth The Robot The First Landing Story Time Travel The Alternate World The Lost Civilization

The Alien Encounter The Colonization of a New Planet The End of the World The Long Spaceship Voyage The Computer From the point of view of an alien Science Fiction Story Ideas

Remember: Writers take scientific possibilities and develop them step-by- step from known data to form a story.

Sci Fi Movies in the 90s Edward Scissorhands (1993) is a Frankenstein take-off. Timecop (1994) Mary Shelley's Frankenstein (1994) Independence Day (1996), a wildly- patriotic film, also turned out to be eerily prophetic in the wake of 9/11. Men in Black (1997) Contact (1997)

What are some famous science fiction movies in this decade? Wall-E Iron Man Hot Tub Time Machine New Star Wars Trilogy Spiderman Star Trek Despicable Me Batman Begins/Dark Knight City of Ember Hancock Signs

Why should we study Science Fiction? Entertaining Makes the audience wonder “What If?” Encourages creativity in writing and role-playing Teaches lessons about the value and dangers of advanced technology Enhances imagination

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