Department of English

This course explores the emergence of modern science fiction as a genre, the ways it has reflected our evolving conceptions of ourselves and the universe, and its role as the mythology of modern technological civilization.  We will discuss such characteristic themes as utopias, time travel, superman, robots, aliens, and other worlds—and the differences between European and American treatment of these themes.  The course is structured chronologically and thematically around a series of classic SF novels.  Monday and Wednesday lectures will set the the authors and novels in historical, scientific, and thematic context.  Friday sections will provide the opportunity for in-depth comparative discussion.  Grading will be based on two hour-exams, weekly 1-page papers, 2 longer papers (5–7 pp.), and class participation. This course is cross-listed as ENGL75, HIST117, and HSOC110, and satisfies SAS distribution requirements in “Arts and Letters.”