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Overview
Paul Alkon analyzes several key works that mark the most significant phases in the early evolution of science fiction, including Frankenstein, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, A Connecticut Yankee in King arthur's Court and The Time Machine. He places the work in context and discusses the genre and its relation to other kinds of literature.
Synopsis
A Choice Outstanding Academic Book, Science Fiction Before 1900 is an accessible and fascinating overview of the evolution and early history of science fiction. Investigating works that marked significant turning points in the early evolution of the genre, including Frankenstein, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court and The Time Machine, Paul Alkon places these works in context. He also discusses science fiction and its complex relationship to other genres. This book will be a great addition to the emerging field of science fiction study. A chronology of significant events, works and figures from the genre's history, notes and references and an extensive bibliographic essay with recommended reading round out the volume.
Booknews
In keeping with the editorial policy of the series, concentrates on several key works that mark the most significant phases in the early evolution of science fiction, among them: Frankenstein, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Looking Backward, A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court, and The Time Machine. The author sets these works in the context of their time and place of origin, and discusses the genre in general and its relation to other kinds of literature. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)