Embodiment and the Cosmic Perspective in Twentieth-Century Fiction

This book explores how twentieth-century fiction engages with groundbreaking technologies and scientific models to present a diverse range of perspectives on the cosmos. It argues that while fiction is traditionally focused on the human embodied mind, it can also cope with scientific theories and concepts that challenge our common-sense intuitions. By examining the ways in which narrative can defamiliarize our bodily experience and bridge the gap with cosmic realities, the book offers commentary on work by both mainstream literary authors and science fiction writers and considers the epistemological and ethical ramifications of literature's engagement with science.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the vibrant tapestry of twentieth-century fiction, readers are invited to explore a kaleidoscope of perspectives on the vast expanse of the cosmos. However, as we delve into the literary imagination of the world beyond the human scale, a fundamental challenge emerges: how can fiction, traditionally rooted in the human embodied mind, grapple with scientific theories and concepts that defy our intuitive understanding and appear discontinuous, both spatially and temporally, with our physical bodies? This captivating book seeks to unravel this enigma by demonstrating how the embodiment of mind remains paramount, even as writers and readers venture into uncharted territories. Through thoughtful commentary on the works of both mainstream literary authors and science fiction writers, Embodiment and the Cosmic Perspective in Twentieth-Century Fiction delves into the myriad ways in which narrative can disrupt our familiar bodily experiences and forge a profound connection with cosmic realities. This scholarly exploration offers a platform for reflection on the role of literature in engaging with science and charting its epistemological and ethical implications.

In the vibrant tapestry of twentieth-century fiction, readers are invited to explore a kaleidoscope of perspectives on the vast expanse of the cosmos. However, as we delve into the literary imagination of the world beyond the human scale, a fundamental challenge emerges: how can fiction, traditionally rooted in the human embodied mind, grapple with scientific theories and concepts that defy our intuitive understanding and appear discontinuous, both spatially and temporally, with our physical bodies? This captivating book seeks to unravel this enigma by demonstrating how the embodiment of mind remains paramount, even as writers and readers venture into uncharted territories. Through thoughtful commentary on the works of both mainstream literary authors and science fiction writers, Embodiment and the Cosmic Perspective in Twentieth-Century Fiction delves into the myriad ways in which narrative can disrupt our familiar bodily experiences and forge a profound connection with cosmic realities. This scholarly exploration offers a platform for reflection on the role of literature in engaging with science and charting its epistemological and ethical implications.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367517229