The aim of this course will be to examine the nature of the science fiction genre. What makes this genre special and how does it differ from non-sf writing? What inherent values, if any, do sf writing have? Is sf writing better at handling certain discussions and problematics than other literature? The course will also attempt to give an anatomy of the sf genre, examining the poetics which go into creating sf and how they assist in narrating the story.
Another aspect which will also be considered in the course, is why is the film medium apparently so effective in creating memorable science fiction and why is it so much more popular? Is either film or text a better medium for sf than the other?
Although the main theoretical text will be Adam Roberts’ Science Fiction, the course will present other viewpoints of sf, from both sf authors and critics.
1. Introduction to science fiction.
2. Examples of sf and problematising the genre of sf.
3. 2001: A Space Odyssey.
4. Blade Runner.
5. Matrix.
6. Lathe of Heaven.
7. Neuromancer.
8. Closing time.
Bibliography
Adam Roberts - Science Fiction
Ursula Le Guin - The Lathe of Heaven
William Gibson - Neuromancer
