This course examines major twentieth century works of science fiction, looking at the range of sub-genres, its engagement with philosophical ideas and its enduring popularity. With a focus on the development of science fiction in the UK and North America during the twentieth century, this course will introduce you to a representative sample of fascinating science fiction.
With a focus on dystopian texts like George Orwell’s classic Nineteen Eighty-Four and gender with an examination of Margaret Attwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale. It will also consider the close relationship between science fiction literature and modern cinema, particularly in movie franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, and The Matrix.
You will expand your technical and literary vocabulary, while also learning about the political, social and philosophical contexts in which these works were written – and their relevance to today’s world.
Seminars will be a mix of lecture and class discussion. Additional reading materials and film and video clips will be provided to aid discussion. There will be additional exercises such as quizzes, debates, presentations (assessed), brainstorming, concept mapping, video reports and free writing where appropriate. Additional movie screenings may also be held during or outside of class time.