Three Wednesdays: July 12, 19, 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET Online
This is a seminar-style, discussion-based class. This live class will be recorded and available for later viewing.
The rise of space opera in the middle of the twentieth century led to the creation of galactic empires. Since then, science fiction writers have asked: what political and cultural institutions might perpetuate the human race far into time and space?
The most influential galactic empire is arguably Isaac Asimov’s Foundation, published as a novel in 1951. In our first class, we’ll discus the standard sci-fi conventions that Asimov solidifies, how the Roman Empire serves as a model for this future civilization, and the ways that Foundation reflects the preoccupations of its current moment.
For our last two classes we’ll read read Arkady Martine’s Hugo Award winner A Memory Called Empire (2019). We’ll see how the genre has expanded to make room for different voices, identities, and influences. Martine’s novel features elaborate world-building and an empire that draws on the Romans, but also Byzantine and Aztec history. Three Wednesdays: July 12, 19, 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET Online
Required Text:
Foundation, by Isaac Asimov 9780553293357
A Memory Called Empire, by Arkady Martine 9781250186447
Leigha McReynolds received her PhD in English Literature from The George Washington University. Her dissertation was on science and the supernatural in the 19th Century British novel. In her teaching, Leigha uses science fiction to engage students across disciplines: she is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor for University Honors at UMD. She also runs a writing coaching business to help aspiring writers of all kinds achieve their personal and professional goals.
REFUND POLICY: Please note that we can issue class refunds up until seven (7) days before the first class session.
