Science fiction and fantasy are distinguished by their settings and explanations of fictional elements. Fantasy uses magic to explain fictional aspects like dragons and spells, while science fiction relies on science and technology to explain spaceships, aliens, and advanced concepts. In most fantasy stories, the main characters possess special innate abilities, whereas science fiction characters tend to be special due to their talents or tools. While fantasy often concludes with order restored and good triumphing over evil, science fiction commonly ends with the creation of a new order or evolution to a higher state of being, leaving the audience contemplating change.

1. Science Fiction ENG305 Fantasy versus

2. “ Classic” Determination Settings: - Castles, medieval weapons, dragons, magic = Fantasy - Space ships, aliens, advanced technology, lasers, outer space = Science Fiction

3. Science vs Magic Sci-Fi authors use science and technology to explain the fiction Lasers, space ships, “wearable” contacts, the Matrix: all theoretically possible and explained by natural laws In fantasy, magic explains much of the fiction Wizards, dragons, spells: “magic” that is not explainable by known natural laws

4. Talents/Tools vs Abilities In most Sci-Fi, the main characters are special because of talents or tools they possess, or for being in the right place In most Fantasy, the main characters are special because of certain abilities they possess that allow them to do extraordinary things

5. Main Themes Why does Fantasy leave you feeling good, and Sci-Fi leave you confused? Science Fiction is about change, while Fantasy is about right-ing the wrong. “… fantasy often ends with the re-establishment of order, with evil conquered and good on the throne. [Sci-Fi] often ends with the establishment of a new order, a new way of doing things, with the evolution to a higher order.” – Maureen McHugh, Science Fiction author