International Journal Of Literature And Languages
130
https://theusajournals.com/index.php/ijll
VOLUME
Vol.05 Issue03 2025
PAGE NO.
130-134
10.37547/ijll/Volume05Issue03-33
The evolution of science fiction: from proto-science
fiction to new wave period
Nishonov Ilxom Dilmurodovich
Independent researcher, Uzbekistan State World Languages University, Uzbekistan
Received:
29 January 2025;
Accepted:
28 February 2025;
Published:
31 March 2025
Abstract:
The following paper aims to explore the trajectory of science fiction literature, tracing its development
from its foundational elements to the emergence and evolution of the cyberpunk as a subgenre of science fiction.
Beginning with an examination of the origins and main features of science fiction in American literature, the paper
delves into the thematic and stylistic elements that have characterized this genre over time. With roots in the
speculative fiction of the early 19th century and the golden age of pulp magazines, science fiction has continually
evolved alongside technological advancements and cultural shifts. From exploring space exploration and alien
encounters to grappling with the ethical implications of scientific innovation, science fiction has served as a mirror
to society's hopes, fears, and aspirations. The given research analyzes all stages of sci-fi development,
commencing from proto-science fiction until the formation of new wave movement.
Keywords:
Science fiction, genre, subgenre, technology, future world.
Introduction:
The evolution of science fiction in
America is a rich and dynamic narrative that mirrors the
societal, cultural, and technological changes of the
nation itself. From its humble beginnings in the early
19th century to its current status as a global
phenomenon, science fiction has undergone several
distinct stages of development, each characterized by
unique themes, styles, and influences. At its inception,
American science fiction emerged as a literary genre
deeply intertwined with the spirit of exploration and
discovery that permeated the nation's ethos. Early
works, such as Edgar Allan
Poe’s ‘The Unparalleled
Adventure of One Hans Pfaall” and Washington Irving’s
“The Unearthly Visitor”, reflected the fascination with
scientific progress and the unknown, blending
elements of fantasy, adventure, and speculation. The
late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the rise of
pulp magazines and the popularization of science
fiction as a form of mass entertainment. Writers like
H.G. Wells and Jules Verne captured the imaginations
of readers with their visionary tales of space
exploration, time travel, and technological innovation.
This period laid the foundation for the emergence of
distinct subgenres within science fiction, including
space opera, cyberpunk, and dystopian fiction. The
mid-20th century, often referred to as the Golden Age
of science fiction, saw the genre reach new heights of
popularity and sophistication. Influential editors like
John W. Campbell Jr. and Astounding Science Fiction
magazine played a pivotal role in shaping the direction
of the genre, promoting hard science fiction and
championing writers like Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke,
and Robert A. Heinlein. This era was characterized by
an optimism about the potential of technology to
transform society and the human condition. The 1960s
and 1970s brought about the New Wave of science
fiction, marked by a shift towards more experimental
and socially conscious storytelling. Writers like Philip K.
Dick, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Harlan Ellison challenged
the conventions of traditional science fiction,
introducing themes of social commentary, political
satire, and existential angst. This period expanded the
boundaries of the genre and paved the way for a more
diverse and intellectually rigorous approach to
speculative literature. As we move into the late 20st
century, science fiction continues to evolve and adapt
to the changing landscape of society and technology.
Cyberpunk became a symbol of that period of time.
DEFINING SCI-FI GENRE AND EXPLORING THE PROTO-
SCIENCE FICTION LANDSCAPE
For many, science fiction is notably inclined towards
depicting future scenarios. According to the respected
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International Journal Of Literature And Languages (ISSN: 2771-2834)
critic Darko Suvin, the pivotal transition of science
fiction into a distinctively futuristic genre occurred
approximately around 1800. During this period, the
primary focus of narrative estrangement shifted from
space to time, marking a significant evolution in the
genre's thematic orientations (Suvin, 1990). The proto-
science fiction period persisted during the 19th
century. Before explaining the main elements of this
period of the development of sci-fi, it is important to
define this literary genre. Hamdan and Noritah (2010)
mentioned that defining the genre of science fiction
(SF) poses a challenge, as its boundaries are not easily
delineated, yet it is generally recognized by most
individuals to involve certain themes and elements.
Broderick also articulates in more precise terms the
methods utilized by the majority of science fiction
works: Science fiction is a genre of literature that often
emerges
in
societies
undergoing
significant
transformations in their modes of production,
distribution, consumption, and waste management. It
employs metaphors and other literary devices to
convey its message, often drawing inspiration from
familiar symbols and themes derived from a shared
cultural heritage. Unlike traditional literature, science
fiction tends to place less emphasis on character
development and ornate prose, and instead prioritizes
the object over the subject, much like scientific or
postmodern texts (D. Broderick, 2005).
Early exploration of proto-science fiction in the 19th
century mark a period of burgeoning curiosity and
imagination, intertwined with the rapid technological
and scientific advancements of the time. Mary Shelley’s
“Frankenstein” played a pivotal role during the proto
-
science fiction period of the 19th century. Published in
1818, it stands as one of the earliest and most
influential works in the genre, blending elements of
gothic horror with speculative science. Csicsery-Ronay
Jr (2012) pointed out that Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
moves beyond its roots in Gothic literature to establish
itself as a fundamental work in the realm of science
fiction, providing audiences with a narrative that serves
as a warning about the ethical and existential
consequences associated with scientific exploration.
Another eminent masterpiece of proto-science fiction
period was Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Unparalleled
Adventure of One Hans Pfaall”. It occupies a significant
position in the realm of proto-science fiction during the
19th century. Published in 1835, this short story
exemplifies Poe's innovative blending of scientific
speculation with elements of adventure and fantasy.
Frank and Magistrale (1997) emphasized that by means
of “The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall”
Poe made a substantial contribution to the spread of
space travel motifs in science fiction, leaving a lasting
impact on future writers. Through “The Unparalleled
Adventure of One Hans Pfaall” Poe demonstrated an
early understanding of the potential of science fiction
as a means of exploring the boundaries of human
knowledge and imagination (Meyers, 2000). Poe
demonstrated a unique ability to combine scientific
inquiry with imaginative storytelling, influencing
generations of science fiction writers to come
(Harrison, 1987). Poe’s works represented a significant
milestone in the evolution of science fiction, with its
focus on scientific speculation and exploration of the
unknown (Peeples, 2004). The era of Proto-Science
Fiction in the 19th century stands as a crucial period in
the evolution of literature, marking the beginnings of
what would eventually become the science fiction
genre.
THE COMMENCEMENT OF PULP ERA
The Pulp Era of science fiction, emerging
predominantly in the early 1920s and extending
through the 1930s, marks a pivotal period in the
development of the genre. Characterized by its cheaply
produced, mass-market magazines printed on rough
pulp paper, this era became a breeding ground for
imaginative tales that captivated audiences across the
globe. According to Roberts (2016) the term “pulp”
refers to a specific type of story published in specialized
magazines. These stories, often written by prolific but
less recognized writers, were inexpensive for
publishers to acquire. One of the notable aspects of the
pulp era, associated with its prominent figure in
publishing, Hugo Gernsback. Gernsback aimed to
establish a new form of literature based strictly on
scientific and didactic principles. In other words, he
sought to redefine science fiction by eliminating any
mystical or magical elements from the science-
mysticism interplay that had initially characterized it.
Gernsback as an editor who facilitated the credibility of
science fiction, asserting that this belief, rather than
the literary merit of his early works, allowed his
concept of a genre to flourish (Westfahl, 1998). He
emphasized on the point that Gernsback not just as the
originator but also as the primary theorist and
chronicler of science fiction. Alternatively, Clute et al.
(1993) held a negative view of Hugo Gernsback,
characterizing him as “the dir
e weird farcical
philistine”. While acknowledging Gernsback's positive
contribution in founding “Amazing Stories: the
Magazine of Scientifiction”, Clute argued that
Gernsback's overall influence was overwhelmingly
negative.
INNOVATION AND IMAGINATION: THE GOLDEN AGE
OF SCI-FI LITERATURE
The “Golden Age” of science fiction, spanning from the
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International Journal Of Literature And Languages (ISSN: 2771-2834)
late 1930s to the early 1950s, represents a pivotal era
in the genre’s history, marked by a surge in popularity,
creativity, and innovation. This period witnessed the
emergence of iconic works, influential authors, and
enduring themes that shaped the landscape of science
fiction for decades to come. Referring to the science
fiction (SF) literature of the 1940s and 1950s as the
“Golden Age” inherently carries a subjective
bias, as the
term was coined by fervent enthusiasts who idealized a
specific style of writing. This characterization venerates
a particular subset of SF narratives characterized by
elements such as hard science fiction, linear
storytelling, and heroic protagonists confronting
challenges in a spacefaring or technologically driven
context. The golden age coincided with significant
historical events, such as WWII and the beginning of
the Cold War, which influenced the themes and tone of
many science fiction stories. Authors explored themes
of technological progress, social change, and the
consequences of scientific discovery against the
backdrop of a rapidly evolving world. Another
perspective on defining this era could be to attribute
the notion of a golden age to the personal preferences
of John W. Campbell, whose influential role in
promoting prescriptive notions of what SF should
emdiv was unparalleled. Campbell favored idea-
driven narratives grounded in plausible scientific
concepts, featuring protagonists who tackle challenges
or adversaries, narratives centered on human
expansion and dominance, as well as explorations of
potential technologies and their societal ramifications..
In Westfahl’s concise depiction, Campbell's approach
involves constructing stories as thought experiments,
wherein
the
author
meticulously
formulates
hypotheses about future events and allows the
narrative to develop from those conjectures (Westfahl,
1998).
Prominent figures emerged as leading voices of the
golden age, including Isaac Asimov, among others.
These authors crafted imaginative worlds, introduced
groundbreaking concepts, and challenged readers to
contemplate the possibilities of the future. Isaac
Asimov's contributions to the Golden Age of science
fiction are profound and far-reaching, establishing him
as one of the genre’s most influential figures. With a
career spanning over five decades, Asimov's impact on
speculative literature remains unparalleled. Isaac
Asimov’s prolific contributions during the golden age of
scien
ce fiction solidified his status as one of the genre’s
most influential figures, with his foundation series
standing as a cornerstone of speculative literature
(Gunn, 1996). Patrouch (1974) pointed out that
Asimov’s emphasis on scientific accuracy sometim
es
overshadowed character development, his exploration
of big ideas and complex ethical dilemmas left an
indelible mark on the golden age and beyond. Asimov’s
enduring popularity and relevance attest to his
enduring impact on the genre, serving as a testament
to his enduring legacy in the annals of science fiction
history (White, 2005). Isaac Asimov's enduring
popularity and continued relevance within the realm of
science fiction underscore the profound impact he has
had on the genre. Through his visionary storytelling,
ethical explorations, and commitment to scientific
accuracy, Asimov left an indelible mark on the genre,
inspiring generations of writers and readers alike. Apart
from Asimov, some prominent writers of the “Golden
Age” of science fiction incl
ude Arthur C. Clarke, Robert
A. Heinlein, Ray Bradbury, A.E. van Vogt, John W.
Campbell, Clifford D. Simak, Frederik Pohl, Theodore
Sturgeon, and Leigh Brackett. Each of these authors
contributed to the genre with their unique styles and
imaginative storytelling, producing works that have
stood the test of time and continue to inspire readers
and writers alike. Their collective impact helped define
the Golden Age as a period of innovation and
exploration in science fiction literature. The Golden Age
of science fiction represents a transformative period in
the genre’s evolution, characterized by prolific
creativity, visionary storytelling, and a lasting impact on
popular culture.
THE NEW WAVE MOVEMENT AS REDEFINING SCIENCE
FICTION LANDSCAPE
The “New Wave” of science fiction, spanning from the
1960s to the 1970s, marked a period of significant
experimentation and innovation within the genre.
Emerging in response to the perceived limitations of
traditional science fiction, the “New Wave” sought to
challenge established conventions and push the
boundaries of storytelling. Critics employ the term
“New Wave” to characterize a loosely connected group
of writers active during the 1960s and 1970s who, in
various ways, rebelled against the norms of traditional
science fiction, crafting avant-garde, radical, or
fragmented narratives. However, such categorizations
of literary movements pose challenges, and the term
“New Wave” is particularly fraught with ambiguity and
difficulty. The “New Wave” of science fiction
marked a
pivotal moment in the genre’s evolution, introducing
literary sophistication and thematic complexity
previously unseen in sci-
fi (Disch, 2000). The “New
Wave” movement expanded the boundaries of science
fiction by incorporating elements of surrealism,
postmodernism, and experimental literature (Nicholls,
Clute & Langford, 1980). The “New Wave” of science
fiction, which emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, was
characterized by several key features such as literary
experimentation, social and political commentary,
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International Journal Of Literature And Languages (ISSN: 2771-2834)
character-driven narratives, ambiguity and open-
endedness exploration of inner space, avant-garde
aesthetics and influence of popular culture. Authors
such as Philip K. Dick, Ursula K. Le Guin, and Harlan
Ellison emerged as leading voices of the
“New Wave”,
each bringing their own distinctive style and
perspective to the genre. Dick’s mind
-bending
explorations of reality and identity, Le Guin’s
anthropological insights and feminist themes, and
Ellison’s visceral prose and social critique all
contributed to the richness and diversity of the
movement. Philip K. Dick was one of prominent
representative of “New Wave” movement.
Philip K. Dick’s legacy looms large within the “New
Wave” period of science fiction, leaving an indelible
mark on the genre with his innovative storytelling and
profound exploration of philosophical and existential
themes. His works challenged the conventions of
traditional science fiction, ushering in a new era of
speculative literature characterized by literary
experimentation
and thematic complexity. Dick’s
ability to blend speculative concepts with deeply
human concerns revolutionized the genre, introducing
a new level of emotional depth and existential inquiry
to science fiction storytelling (Carrère, 2004). Palmer
(2003) noted that through his groundbreaking novels
and short stories, Dick challenged the conventions of
science fiction and paved the way for a more
intellectually rigorous and philosophically rich
approach to speculative literature. Dick’s novels, such
as “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”, “The Three
Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch”, and “Ubik”, introduced
readers to dystopian worlds inhabited by morally
ambiguous characters grappling with questions of
identity, reality, and the nature of consciousness. His
narratives often blurred the lines between the real and
the imagined, inviting readers to ponder the nature of
perception and the elusive nature of truth. Moreover,
Dicks exploration of social and political issues, including
authoritarianism, surveillance, and the dehumanizing
effects of technology, resonated deeply with the
cultural zeitgeist of the 1960s and 1970s. His work
served as a mirror reflecting the anxieties and
uncertainties of the era, while also offering a critique of
contemporary society. Dick’s
unique blend of
speculative imagination, philosophical inquiry, and
psychological insight helped redefine the possibilities
of the genre, leaving an enduring legacy that continues
to shape the landscape of science fiction literature to
this day. Although the New Wave eventually waned by
the late 1970s, its legacy endured, influencing
subsequent generations of writers and shaping the
evolution of science fiction as a genre.
CONCLUSION
During the research of the topic, the following
conclusions were revealed. This paper first analyzed
the phenomenon of science fiction in world literature.
Moreover, we explored scholars’ standpoints regarding
to the nature of science fiction and their
interpretations of the definition of the sci-fi genre. At
its core, science fiction serves as a speculative platform
for exploring the intersections of science, technology,
and society. It encompasses narratives that project
potential futures, alternate realities, and imaginative
scenarios rooted in scientific progressions and societal
shifts.
Thereafter, we commenced to depict all the stages of
development of sci-
fi. The era of “Proto
-Science
Fiction” in the 19th century emerges as a foundational
period that laid the groundwork for the rich tapestry of
the science fiction genre. Through the pioneering
works of writers like Mary Shelley and Edgar Allan Poe,
themes of scientific exploration, ethical dilemmas, and
the limitless possibilities of human imagination began
to take shape. The works of this period of time
challenged conventional notions of humanity, morality,
and the boundaries of knowledge, inspiring subsequent
generations of authors to push the boundaries of
imagination even further.
Afterward, we emphasized on the formation of pulp
fiction. The “Pulp Era” of science fic
tion stands as a
transformative period that reshaped the genre and laid
the groundwork for its enduring popularity. Central to
the “Pulp Era” was the visual element, with colorful and
vibrant cover art becoming synonymous with the
genre. These illustrations, though varying in skill level,
played a crucial role in capturing the imagination of
readers and establishing a distinct visual style that
continues to influence science fiction aesthetics. At the
forefront of this era was Hugo Gernsback, a figure
whose vision and editorial efforts helped define the
parameters of science fiction literature. The legacy of
the “Pulp Era” endures in the rich tapestry of science
fiction literature, serving as a testament to the
enduring power of imagination and storytelling.
We also delineated the “Golden Age“ period of science
fiction. The “Golden Age” of science fiction stands as a
watershed moment in the genre's history, defined by a
surge of creativity, innovation, and lasting impact.
Spanning from the late 1930s to the early 1950s, this
era witnessed the emergence of iconic works,
influential authors, and enduring themes that continue
to shape the landscape of speculative literature.
Prominent figures like Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke,
and Ray Bradbury emerged as leading voices of this era,
crafting
imaginative
worlds,
introducing
groundbreaking concepts, and challenging readers to
contemplate the possibilities of the future. Asimov, in
International Journal Of Literature And Languages
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International Journal Of Literature And Languages (ISSN: 2771-2834)
particular, left an indelible mark with his Foundation
series, which explored grand ideas and ethical
dilemmas on a galactic scale. The “Golden Age” of
science fiction represents a transformative period that
propelled the genre into the mainstream, solidifying its
place in popular culture and laying the groundwork for
the diverse and vibrant landscape of speculative
literature that thrives to this day.
Then, we concentrate our attention on the
development of “New Wave” movement. The “New
Wave” of science fiction, spanning from the 1960s to
the 1970s, represented a transformative period
marked by experimentation, innovation, and the
challenging of established conventions. Emerging in
response to perceived limitations within the genre, the
“New Wave” sought to push the boundaries of
storytelling, introducing literary sophistication and
thematic complexity previously unseen in science
fiction. Through groundbreaking novels like “Do
Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” and “The Three
Stigmata of Palmer Eldritch” Dick invited readers to
ponder existential questions while navigating
dystopian worlds fraught with moral ambiguity. His
exploration of social and political issues resonated
deeply with the cultural zeitgeist of the era, offering a
critique of contemporary society while pushing the
boundaries of speculative literature. Although the
“New Wave” eventually waned by the late 1970s, its
legacy endured, influencing subsequent generations of
writers and shaping the evolution of science fiction as a
genre.
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