Elements of Science Fiction

What is What is Science FictionScience Fiction

A writing style that combines science and fiction

Theodore Sturgeon, Science Fiction author, (he even wrote episodes of Star Trek) defines Science Fiction as “ a story about human beings, with a human problem and a human solution which would not have happened at all without it’s scientific content.”

Science fiction stories all contain the following elements: Time or Space Possibility of the event happening Affect on humans Advanced Technology

Science Fiction vs. Science Fiction vs.

FantasyFantasy In Science Fiction, there needs to be some possibility that

the events could possibly happen.

In Fantasy, the author can use far fetched assumptions and does not concern themselves with whether or not the events could possibly happen.

More Elements of More Elements of Science FictionScience Fiction

Realistic and fantastic details

Grounded in science

Usually set in the future

Unknown inventions

Makes a serious comment about the world

Often contains a warning for humankind

Science Fiction Science Fiction SettingsSettings

Another planet

Under the oceans

Another dimension of existence

May be a utopia or dystopia

May be in the future

May time travel to the past (or future)

May take place in present, but alternate reality

Science Fiction Science Fiction CharactersCharacters

Protagonist (Hero)

Antagonist (Villian)

These characters may be a being (human or other) or may be a force

Protagonist or Antagonist may be a society’s laws, a disease or other problem, technology, etc.

Creatures, robots, aliens, etc.

Science is Important Science is Important to the Storyto the Story

Advanced technology

Genetics

Disease

Exploration

Special powers or senses as a result of science

Science can be the savior or the root of the problem

Message or Warning Message or Warning for Humansfor Humans

Science Fiction stories often contain a message or warning

You may want to consider the message BEFORE you begin planning your story. We will discuss this in more detail next week!