Looking at the Universe through Science Fiction / Looking at the Self through Fantasy

These two sessions will look at the genres of science fiction and fantasy in terms of their ability to explore the outer world and the inner: the universe through science fiction and the self through fantasy.  Using excerpts, short pieces of fiction, and film clips, we will look at the way each genre builds an imaginary world that serves as a gateway to understanding the more mysterious parts of the real world.  No particular background in either genre is required, except an awareness of science fiction imagery, as it shows up in popular culture, and of the more familiar myths and fairy tales.