The term ‘science fiction’ has an established common usage, but close examination reveals that writers, fans, editors, scholars, and publishers often use this word in different ways for different reasons. Exploring how science fiction has emerged through competing versions and the struggle to define its limits, this Concise History:

provides an accessible and clear overview of the development of the genre traces the separation of sf from a broader fantastic literature and the simultaneous formation of neighbouring genres, such as fantasy and horror shows the relationship between magazine and paperback traditions in sf publishing is organised by theme and presented chronologically uses text boxes throughout to highlight key works in sf traditions including dystopian, apocalyptic and evolutionary fiction includes a short overview and bullet-pointed conclusion for each chapter.

Discussing the place of key works and looking forward to the future of the genre, this book is the ideal starting point both for students and all those seeking a better understanding of science fiction.

Contents

Preface 1. Problems of Definition Overview 2. Science Fictions Before Gernsback 3. Proliferations: the 1930s 4. Campbell’s ‘Revolution’ in Context: the 1940s 5. Cold War, Consumerism, Cybernetics: the 1950s 6. New Realities, New Fictions: the 1960s and 1970s 7. New Voices, New Concerns: the 1960s and 1970s 8. New Politics, New Technologies: the 1980s and 1990s 9. Empire and Expansion: the 1980s and 1990s 10. Possible Futures Works cited Guide to further reading