Download It's all about the Sci-Fi and more Lecture notes English in PDF only on Docsity! I. What is Science Fiction? ➢ Science fiction, popularly shortened as sci-fi, is a genre of fiction that creatively depicts real or imaginary science and technology as part of its plot, setting, or theme. The fiction part of science fiction means, of course, that it’s a fictional story—not a real-life account. ➢ The word science refers to the fact that the story in some way involves science or technology that—no matter how advanced—is depicted as being based on real scientific principles, as opposed to involving magic or the supernatural. ➢ Science fiction is a form of fiction that deals principally with the impact of actual or imagined science upon society or individuals II. DIFFERENT TYPES OF SCIENCE FICTION o Hard sci-fi novels are based on scientific fact. They’re inspired by “hard” natural sciences like physics, chemistry, and astronomy. o Soft sci-fi novels can be two things: Either they are not scientifically accurate or they’re inspired by “soft” social sciences like psychology, anthropology, and sociology. III. 8 SUB-GENRES OF SCIENCE FICTION a. Fantasy fiction: Sci-fi stories inspired by mythology and folklore that often include elements of magic. b. Supernatural fiction: Sci-fi stories about secret knowledge or hidden abilities that include witchcraft, spiritualism, and psychic abilities. c. Utopian fiction: Sci-fi stories about civilizations the authors deem to be perfect, ideal societies. Utopian fiction is often satirical. d. Dystopian fiction: Sci-fi stories about societies the authors deem to be problematic for things like government rules, poverty, or oppression. e. Space opera: A play on the term “soap opera,” sci-fi stories that take place in outer space and center around conflict, romance, and adventure. f. Space western: Sci-fi stories that blend elements of science fiction with elements of the western genre. g. Cyberpunk: Sci-fi stories that juxtapose advanced technology with less advanced, broken down society. h. Steampunk: Sci-fi stories that blend technology with steam-powered machinery. IV. Example Of Science Fiction Movies • The Abyss (1989) • Children Of Men (2006) • Eternal Sunshine Of the Spotless Mind (2004) • Predator (1987) • Stalker (1979)
