ENLT 270: Science Fiction & Utopian/Dystopian Literature
This course is offered roughly every year, depending on department needs. Readings and assignments may vary by section.
Description
This course covers a selection of literary works and other media that fall under the nebulous umbrellas of science fiction, utopian, and dystopian narratives. Keeping in mind that these terms encompass a wide variety of radically diverse texts, we will explore novels, short stories, comics, films, TV shows, and other works that exhibit key characteristics of SF, utopia, and/or dystopia. Beginning with nineteenth-century novels and ending with the present day, and informed by relevant secondary sources, we will examine the ways in which creators use speculative elements to express the conditions of their historical moments. The “unreal” stories we encounter will prompt us to discuss the very real issues of imperialism, environmental crisis, racism, sexism, illness and disability, sexual orientation and gender identity, and other social and political concerns. In the end, stories of the future are really about the past and present, utopia always invokes the specter of dystopia, and truth is often stranger than fiction.
