The Routledge Companion to Science Fiction

This essential guide explores the history, theory, and future directions of science fiction, making the Routledge Companion to Science Fiction a valuable resource for enthusiasts and scholars alike.

The Routledge Companion to Science Fiction offers an extensive overview of the genre's history and its academic study. It highlights significant writers, movements, and key texts that have shaped science fiction over the years. The book serves as a vital resource for understanding the evolution of this imaginative genre, presenting established critical approaches while also identifying areas for future exploration.

This comprehensive volume features fifty-six entries contributed by a diverse group of esteemed international scholars. These entries are organized into four distinct parts, each focusing on different aspects of science fiction. The first section provides a chronological narrative that outlines the historical development of the genre, showcasing how it has transformed over time. The second part delves into various theoretical frameworks, including feminism, Marxism, psychoanalysis, and more, offering detailed insights into how these perspectives influence the interpretation of science fiction.

In addition to history and theory, the Routledge Companion to Science Fiction addresses pressing issues and challenges that the genre faces today. It anticipates future directions for study, exploring diverse topics such as science studies, environmentalism, and ethics. The final section examines specific subgenres, tracing themes and developments that enrich the understanding of science fiction as a whole. This book is essential for anyone interested in the past and future of science fiction, as well as its educational significance.