The Origins of Science Fiction

This anthology includes seventeen gripping tales from the nineteenth and early twentieth century that explore the foundations of science fiction, including scientific Gothic, dystopian fantasies, psychological hoaxes, feminist parables, time-travel, adventure stories, uncanny tales, and alien encounters. It reflects the diverse paths that led to science fiction and exposes our fascination with scientific discovery and the imagined future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

I gazed upon a vast expanse, its boundaries extending far beyond the limits of my sight. This collection, comprising seventeen captivating tales from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, forms the very essence of science fiction. It traverses a remarkable spectrum, from the visionary works of Mary Shelley to the groundbreaking ideas of H. G. Wells, from the haunting narratives of Edgar Allan Poe to the thought-provoking writings of W. E. B. Du Bois, and from the profound insights of George Eliot to the adventurous stories of Jack London.

In the era preceding the establishment of the term "science fiction," writers embarked on a novel and enigmatic pursuit, seeking to explore new and unconventional subject matter in a startlingly innovative manner. The selected stories within this anthology showcase the diverse pathways that led to the emergence of science fiction, encompassing scientific Gothic, dystopian fantasies, psychological hoaxes, feminist parables, tales of time travel, adventure stories, uncanny tales, and accounts of alien encounters.

This anthology unveils the profound influence of the literature of that era and exposes our deep fascination with scientific discovery and the allure (and potential threat) of the imagined future. Additionally, this edition includes an insightful introduction by Michael Newton, which delves into the themes of the tales and explores the evolution of science fiction. Newton examines how these stories engage with profound concerns such as the boundaries of the rational mind, the realities of Empire and the discoveries of anthropology, the enigmatic figure of the scientist, the rapid advancements of technology, and the enigmatic presence of the alien other.

Oxford World's Classics has been a trusted source of literature for over a century, offering an extensive range of works from across the globe. Each affordable volume in this series reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text accompanied by a wealth of valuable features. These include expert introductions by renowned authorities, informative notes to clarify the text, comprehensive bibliographies for further study, and much more. By embracing the timeless wisdom and captivating narratives of this collection, readers can embark on a journey into the rich tapestry of science fiction and explore the boundless possibilities of the human imagination.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198891949