Science Fiction and Shakespeare (Edited Collection)

We are seeking contributions from scholars in various disciplines to submit proposals for chapters to be combined into an edited collection on Shakespeare’s influences on modern day science fiction.

Shakespeare’s influence on literary genres is profound to say the least, however, for some people, the association with modernity and popular culture often blinds the reader from any connection to Shakespeare and the English Early Modern Period. Evidence from science fiction belies this position as Shakespeare in both physical and textual form is a regular fixture on the screen. A well-known example comes from the 2007 Doctor Who episode “The Shakespeare Code” where the Doctor refers to him as “the most human human there’s ever been.”

During conferences in the past few years, the interconnection between Shakespeare and science fiction have been explored at several panels.  Our goal is to bring together people who see the connections to create an edited collection.

Papers (chapters) are invited on all aspects of the intersection between Shakespeare and the genre of science fiction. Possibilities for submission include (but are not limited to):

• Critical analysis between connecting characters, plots, or themes.
• Discussions on science fiction adaptations of the plays
• Historical explanations between Early Modern England and science fiction adaptations
• Popular Culture science fiction (Star Wars, Star Trek, Firefly, etc.) and Shakespeare
• Pedagogical approaches of Shakespeare that tie in science fiction
• Etc.

Proposals are welcomed from researchers at all stages of their career, including postgraduate students and independent scholars.

For consideration into the collection, please send a 300 – 500 word abstract and a brief CV to jpietrus@wvstateu.edu by 1/15/20