ENG 276 : Science Fiction Literature
This writing-intensive seminar will introduce students to the genre of science fiction (SF) and the various subgenres associated with it including hard and soft SF, the space fantasy, space opera, comic SF, scientific romance, and cyberpunk through the short story, the novel, film, and other media. Students will focus on the symbolic, psychological, prophetic, and religious dimensions of the genre and understand the role that it plays in addressing political, social, and civic issues from the 1800s to the 21st century. Authors are selected from around the world and from different cultural backgrounds, including Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, Karel Capek, Phillip K. Dick, Ursula K. Le Guin, Douglas Adams, Sakyo Komatsu, and Nalo Hopkinson. Prerequisite: ENG 102 or permission of the instructor.
Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Human Expression.
Course Outcomes
1. Differentiate between various subgenres of Science Fiction and understand the role that each plays in the context of world literature.
2. Appraise the various patterns of symbolism, imagery, and themes throughout the literature.
3. Critically analyze works of Science Fiction and draw upon the historical and cultural backgrounds of the authors in shaping their analyses.
4. Explain how Science Fiction has allowed writers to address political and socioeconomic issues through unconventional story telling.
5. Explicate how Science Fiction is used as a means of exploring the value, purpose, and meaning of the human condition.
6. Demonstrate a sound knowledge of major global events that have influenced the development of the literary genre from the 1800’s into the 21 century.