21st Century Literature

exploring the

sci-fi
genre
Have you read or viewed many science fiction texts?

What features or characteristics come to mind when

you think of the sci-fi genre?
 Learning Objective
To understand the conventions of the science fiction genre (including
narrative elements, themes, language and structural features) so that we
can recognise and analyse them in both written and visual texts.
 1
contents What is science fiction?

2 A brief history

3 Purpose

4 Narrative Elements

5 Common Themes

6 Language and Structure

what is sci-fi?
Science fiction is a genre of speculative
fiction that:
• explores imaginative concepts or ideas
• is often grounded in scientific or
technological principles, and
• is set in futuristic or alternative worlds

Science fiction texts allow writers to

explore themes such as the impact of
science and technology on society, the
nature of humanity and the possibilities
and consequences of scientific
advancements.
 Emergence of Genre New Wave and Beyond

history (Early 19th Century)

• Sci-fi arose as a distinct literary
(1960s and 1970s)
• Experimental and literary
genre. elements challenged traditional
• Mary Shelley's ‘Frankenstein’ is conventions and explored new
considered one of the earliest themes and styles.
science fiction novels. • Authors pushed generic
• Texts explored themes of creation, boundaries introducing dystopian
speculative technologies and the futures, cyberpunk landscapes
consequences of scientific and philosophical inquiries into
ambition. the nature of reality and identity.

Early The Golden Age Contemporary

Influences (Early 20th century) Works
• Ancient myths and legends • The emergence of pulp magazines • Sci-fi texts have continued to
incorporated fantastical elements provided a platform for sci-fi evolve and diversify, with authors
and speculative ideas about the writers to reach a wider audience. exploring a wide range of themes
universe. • Authors produced seminal works and perspectives.
• During the Renaissance and that shaped the genre and • Contemporary masterpieces have
Enlightenment periods, there was expanded its scope. garnered critical acclaim and
a growing interest in scientific • Texts explored themes of galactic expanded the boundaries of the
inquiry and exploration. empires, artificial intelligence, genre, addressing issues of
space exploration and climate change, social justice, and
extraterrestrial life. the human condition.
Purpose The purpose of science fiction texts is multifaceted but some
common reasons for their creation are as follows:

Exploration of Reflection on Entertainment

Speculative Ideas Societal Issues and Escapism
Authors can imagine and Authors can use futuristic or Sci-fi texts transport readers
speculate on ideas about the alternative worlds as to distant galaxies, alternate
future of humanity including allegories dimensions, and future
things like potential to address complex social, worlds filled with adventure,
advancements, scenarios and political, ethical, and mystery, and wonder,
consequences based on environmental issues, offering an opportunity to
current scientific knowledge offering commentary and explore the unknown and the
and trends. critique on present-day extraordinary.
realities.
 narrative elements
in the sci-fi genre
 characters

scientists and explorers Moral & Ethical Dilemmas aliens and ai

Protagonists often grapple Science fiction texts
Science fiction often includes with difficult choices and frequently feature non-human
characters who are scientists, wrestle with the characters, such as aliens,
engineers, astronauts, or consequences of their actions. robots, or artificial
explorers, driving the These characters are complex intelligence, providing
narrative through their pursuit and multifaceted, with opportunities for exploring
of knowledge, discovery, and strengths, weaknesses, flaws ideas about otherness,
exploration and pushing the and internal conflicts that diversity, and the nature of
boundaries of what is possible. drive the story. consciousness.
 outer space dystopian futures virtual or digital realities

Many science fiction stories Dystopian worlds are a The lines between the
use space or the universe as a prominent setting, offering a physical and digital realms
primary setting, exploring backdrop to explore themes of are often blurred through
distant planets, galaxies and power, control, oppression, virtual realities, artificial
alien civilizations. and societal collapse. worlds and immersive
simulations.

settings
 post-apocalyptic lands futuristic worlds alternate realities

Sci-fi stories can be set in Science fiction often takes They often feature
post-disaster landscapes, place in future settings, alternate or parallel
where civilization has featuring advanced universes, divergent
collapsed, and society technology, space travel, timelines, or virtual worlds
lives in harsh conditions. and speculative societies. created by advanced
technology.

settings
 conflicts

person vs. technology person vs. extraterrestrial person vs. government

Sci-fi frequently explores the Interstellar conflict between Often characters fight to
conflict between humanity and different species, civilizations, overcome oppressive systems
artificial intelligence, robots or or factions is a common trope in dystopian settings run by
other forms of technology, in sci-fi often reflecting tyrannical leaders who
raising questions about the themes of war, diplomacy, and maintain social inequality,
boundaries between man and the clash of cultures in the environmental degradation, or
machine. vastness of space. other forms of societal
collapse.
point of view
The choice of perspective and point of view in
science fiction texts can influence the reader's
understanding of the narrative and its
characters.
first person narration
Provides readers with intimate insights into the
protagonist's thoughts, feelings, and
experiences, fostering empathy and emotional
engagement.
third person narration
Provides a broader perspective on the story,
revealing multiple characters' motivations or
actions while maintaining distance and
objectivity.
 common themes
in the sci-fi genre
 advanced technology
Science fiction often examines the impact of
advanced technology on society, exploring
themes such as artificial intelligence, genetic
engineering, space exploration, and futuristic
inventions. These texts raise questions about
the ethical, social, and environmental
implications of technological advancements.

environmental concerns
Some science fiction texts address
environmental and ecological issues,
envisioning worlds ravaged by climate change,
pollution, or resource depletion. These stories
serve as cautionary tales, warning of the
potential consequences of human impact on
the natural world and the importance of
environmental stewardship.
identity & existence
Science fiction texts often grapple with
questions of identity, empathy, consciousness,
the search for meaning and the nature of
existence. Themes of transhumanism,
cyborgs, and virtual reality explore the
boundaries of human experience and the
blurring of distinctions between organic and
artificial life forms.

exploration of the unknown

Science fiction often highlight themes of
exploration, discovery and colonisation
whether through space travel, deep-sea
exploration, or uncharted territories. These
narratives reflect humanity's curiosity about
the universe, our quest for knowledge and
desire to expand beyond Earth.
 future societies
Many sci-fi stories envision alternate futures,
exploring themes of governance, social order,
and cultural norms. These texts often critique
contemporary society by imagining
exaggerated or speculative futures, offering
commentary on issues such as inequality,
surveillance, and the erosion of individual
freedoms.

extraterrestrial encounters
Science fiction frequently explores the
possibility of extraterrestrial life and
encounters with alien civilizations. These
stories delve into themes of exploration,
communication, and cultural exchange, as
well as the fear of the unknown and the
search for meaning in the universe.
language & structural features
in the sci-fi genre
• Descriptive language and vivid imagery
to bring settings, characters and events to
life.
• Foreshadowing and symbolism are used
to hint at future events, convey thematic
motifs, and add depth to the narrative.
• Specialised terminology, scientific jargon,
and invented languages can create
authenticity and believability within
speculative worlds.
• World-building details such as cultural
customs, historical events and societal
norms to create a sense of verisimilitude
within the speculative universe.
• Figurative language evokes associations
that enhance the reader's understanding
of abstract concepts and themes.
• Dialogue is used to develop character
language
personalities, relationships, and conflicts.
and style
 Science fiction has long been a significant
cultural force, offering a unique lens through
which to explore the complexities of human
existence, societal structures, and the potential
futures of our world.

The impact of science fiction extends

profoundly into film and television, digital media,
video games and online platforms where visual
storytelling brings speculative worlds to life in
ways that captivate and challenge audiences.

The genre's adaptability across these various

to wrap up media underscores its enduring relevance and

its powerful capacity to inspire imagination,
critical thinking, and a sense of wonder about
the possibilities that lie ahead.
activity: MISSION POSSIBLE
By pair,
Create your own futuristic inventions.
Study real world themes and events in
order to create an invention. After the
invention has been created, write a movie-
style dialogue telling about their inventions.
end
thank
you