Types of science fantasy
Janice Antczak
describes two types of science fantasy: the first being a
future, often
utopian, world with elements of medieval society and Faerie; in the
second, a story
based on magic and legend includes a veneer of science.[32]
Modern ghost stories such as The Ghost
Inside the Monitor
[33] fit
the second category. In this subgenre, computers are portrayed as
modern mediums to communicate with the
spirit world.
Computers may also act as portals to other worlds. Alternately, works may be set in a typical fantasy
world peopled with
magic and mythical creatures where computers are tools for the
characters.
The appeal of science fantasy
Magic and technology are not necessarily in opposition, especially for
children. Studies by Katrina Phelps and Jacqueline Woolley show that
children up to nine years old will interpret information or events in
magical ways where the language used is confusing or their
understanding of the processes is incomplete.[34]
Sherry Turkle's research suggests that children see computers as
something between inanimate and animate, as they perceive that the
computer
has some ability to interact with them.[35]
Computer fantasy books can
explore this grey area where concepts of virtual reality and artificial
intelligence (AI) reside.
"Any
sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."
[36]
-
Arthur C. Clarke
