Elements of Science Fiction

What is Science Fiction? A writing style that combines science and fiction It is driven by the desire to ponder the question “What if…” It is only limited by our imagination!

“Science Fiction is a story about human beings, with a human problem and human solutions which would not have happened at all without its scientific content.” ~ Theodore Sturgeon Science Fiction author

Science Fiction vs. Fantasy Science Fiction- a form of fiction that draws imaginatively on scientific knowledge and speculation in its plot, setting, theme, etc. Ender’s Game, Dune, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, I am Legend. *It always ties back to science.* Fantasy- stories set in fanciful, invented worlds, an alternate and more fanciful version of our own world, or in a legendary, mythic past. Fantasy fiction stories generally involve magic, mystical elements, or supernatural creatures. Harry Potter, Twilight, Lord of the Rings, Eragon

Elements of Science Fiction All Science Fiction stories have some elements in common: Time or space Possibility of the event happening Affect on humans Advanced technology

Advanced Technology Mutants and Zombies- X- Men, I am Legend Robots and Androids- “Data”, “C3PO” Mutants and Zombies- X- Men, I am Legend Ray Guns - Star Trek Teleportation Devices – Star Trek, Stargate Space Ships- Star Wars, Serenity

Setting Another planet Under the oceans Another dimension of space May be in the future May take place in the present but in an alternate reality May include time travel to the past, or future

Dystopian Fiction A subgenre of Science Fiction is Dystopian Fiction. Dystopian Fiction is set in a post-apocalyptic world. Characters are restricted in one or more ways. This could be as literal as actual walls that restrict movement. It could also be cultural where characters are limited by laws or curfews. Hunger Games, Divergent, Matched

Characters Protagonist (Hero) Antagonist (Villain) These characters may be human, a creature, a robot, alien, etc.

Conflict Man vs. Man Kirk vs. Spock in Star Trek 2009 Man vs. Self Luke Skywalker in Star Wars Man vs. Society The Federation vs. the Klingons in Star Trek Man vs. Technology Man vs. the Decepticons in Transformers

Themes/Ideas in Science Fiction Unexplained Phenomena- Stories featuring UFO’s, pyramid power, paranormal abilities, telekinesis, ESP, and other psychic possibilities and how those talents affect humans. (Super 8, Independence Day) Telekinesis- The ability to move an object with the power of one's thoughts. (The Fire Starter)

The Individual versus Society- Self- Knowledge- Stories emphasizing the ability to know and accept our humanity. May include situations challenging gender identities or other preconceived notions. (X-Men, Speaker for the Dead.) The Individual versus Society- Tales where the society has certain guidelines for compatible living, but situations occur that the rules don’t cover. A strong individual accomplishes daring feats and sometimes this requires breaking rules. (Hunger Games, The Giver, Ender’s Game, I, Robot)

People in Time or Space- Stories involving humans traveling in time or space. Situations include the beings humans encounter, and how the humans react to the unfamiliar surroundings. (Star Trek, Timeline, Back to the Future, Dr. Who.) Humans and Technology- Stories describing how humans interact with computers, nanotechnology, bioengineering, virtual reality, artificial intelligences, or other parts of technologically driven society. These stories often question the concept of what it means to be human. (I, Robot, Terminator)

Often, there is a serious comment about the world and a warning for mankind. * the potential of technology to destroy mankind * the dangers of genetic engineering * the dangerous implications of space travel and alien species

Why study Science Fiction? Entertaining Encourages creativity in writing and role-playing Introduces students to a new literary genre Teaches lessons about the value and dangers of advanced technology Enhances imagination Encourages the audience to wonder “What If?” Introduces students to the importance of Science Fiction to the world today.