Course Descriptions

ENG 223 - Science Fiction

3 Credits

Reading, discussion, and written analysis of speculative fiction novels and short stories about human beings experiencing the changes resulting from science and technology. Representative authors from Shelley and Wells, through Clarke and Heinlein, to LeGuin and Delany.

Prerequisite(s): English 101 with a C or better, or placement into English 200, or instructor permission.

New SUNY General Education: SUNY - Critical Thinking and Reasoning Competency, SUNY - Humanities

Retiring SUNY General Education: SUNY-H - Humanities (SHUM)

MCC General Education: MCC-AH - Arts and Humanities (MAH)

Course Learning Outcomes
1. Analyze works of science fiction from a variety of cultures.
2. Describe the common conventions of the genre.
3. Apply critical insight in interpretations of science fiction.
4. Explain the historical development of science fiction.
5. Describe science fiction in terms of its place within and beyond the literary cannon.
6. Explain the connection between science fiction and the impact of changing technology and social systems on people.
7. Apply the appropriate formal conventions when writing about literature.
8. Write a thesis-driven essay using primary and secondary sources.

Course Offered Fall, Spring

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Fall Semester 2024
Intersession 2025
Spring Semester 2025