This paper investigates if Octavia Butler’s Kindred is fitting into the overall definition of science fiction and, if not, why and how she is exaggerating the genre and its limits. There are different approaches available to analyze this content. For example, one could work with a historical analysis of a genre, presented in Cuddon/ Preston. On the other hand, no investigation on history could prevent the paper from losing itself in trivialities of change.
For this reason, I will choose a mixed approach, analyzing standard works, dictionaries, companions, and specialist books on different branches of the genre, to be able to summarize all parameters needed to form a profound definition. On the one hand, the paper will therefore work quantitatively in sense of finding as much evidence as possible for each and every parameter. On the other hand, I am going to work qualitatively in sense of investigating one special example (Kindred) regarding the overall contemplation.
Although the paper could never reach representativeness, the selection of possible classifications and definitions is highly important, as they shape the paper’s outcome and final conclusion. For this reason, writers from both sides of the ocean shall be taken into consideration, as they influenced the genre in a wide extent, for example in creating the progression of the »New Wave« and, therefore, might be important for the paper, too. Assuming that, the paper is going to deal with the genre itself, not authors in particular. A distinct theory is not needed, as the structure is set up to be a theoretical one, analyzing the content of a genre and hence works on theoretical constructs itself. Nevertheless, postmodernism will be of a great importance, which will be both introduced and explained in the following chapters.
The paper will be organized in an introduction, presenting the topic, research question, and thesis. Next to that is chapter two, containing definitions, in which parameters from research are being listed to be able to set a definition. Chapter three changes to social criticism in SF and explores, why Kindred is social criticism in the first place, and investigates, if it fits into the definition found in chapter two. Part four will merge the two lines of action and set a new and overall definition. It will answer the research question, if and how Octavia Butler’s Kindred is exaggerating the definition and verifies or falsifies the thesis.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Defining Science-Fiction
- Science/Technical Definitions
- Future Definitions
- Space and Supernatural Definitions
- Utopia
- Alternative History
- Finding an Overall Definition
- Social Criticism in SF
- Kindred as Example for Social Criticism. Elements of SF
- Does Kindred Fit into the Definition?
- New Parameters
- Social Criticism Expanding SF as Genre of Possibilities
- Discussion of New Parameters
- Set New Definition
- Chance for Criticism
- Conclusion: SF as Genre of Possibilities - Social Criticism in a Limitless Range of Opportunities?
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This seminar paper aims to investigate the complex relationship between science fiction as a genre of possibilities and its potential for social criticism. By examining the various definitions of science fiction, the paper explores the extent to which Octavia Butler's novel Kindred exemplifies the genre's capacity for social commentary. The paper seeks to establish whether Kindred pushes the boundaries of science fiction and, if so, how this expansion contributes to the genre's overall potential for critical engagement with social issues.- Defining Science Fiction
- Social Criticism in Science Fiction
- The Limits of Genre
- Octavia Butler's Kindred as a Case Study
- Science Fiction as a Genre of Possibilities
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- The introduction establishes the research question and thesis of the paper, outlining the key concepts and objectives. It highlights the multifaceted nature of science fiction and the need for a comprehensive definition.
- Chapter two explores various definitions of science fiction, examining parameters such as technical aspects, futuristic settings, and the presence of the supernatural. It analyzes key examples from the genre to demonstrate the diverse range of possibilities encompassed within its boundaries.
- Chapter three focuses on the role of social criticism within science fiction, using Octavia Butler's Kindred as a model. It examines the novel's elements of science fiction and its potential for critiquing social issues. The chapter explores whether Kindred fits into existing definitions of science fiction and delves into the potential for the genre to expand its scope and limitations.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The paper focuses on key concepts and terms such as science fiction, genre, definition, social criticism, Octavia Butler, Kindred, possibilities, limits, and expansion. It delves into the historical development of the genre and its relationship to postmodernism, while exploring the potential for science fiction to serve as a platform for social commentary. These concepts are examined in the context of specific examples from the genre, including works by authors such as Mary Shelley, H.G. Wells, and Ursula K. Le Guin. The paper seeks to understand how science fiction can be used to critique social structures, challenge conventional norms, and envision alternative realities.- Quote paper
- B.A. Philipp Freund (Author), 2018, Science-Fiction as Genre of Possibilities. Social Criticism in a Limitless Range of Opportunities?, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/432084
