From the mid-20th century to 2025, women writers have been major players globally in the upsurge of what is now referred to as speculative fiction--a literary supergenre or umbrella term for a spectrum of “what if” fictions: fairy tale, science fiction, horror, dystopian, magic realism, surrealism, fantasy. We will explore together short stories and novels written since 2000. Class discussions will aim at interpretation and appreciation of these peculiar and powerful literary texts as well as reflection on their particular historical and cultural context.

In particular, we will be curious about how these authors play with a spectrum of gender - in their own lives and in their writing. The texts include fiction written in English and fiction translated into English; we will address the issue of reading works in translation. Speakers and students of languages other than English, are encouraged to offer their insights into the necessary friction between an original text and its English translation.

Among the authors to be read: Mansoura Ez Eldin, N.K. Jemisin, Samanta Schweblin, Eden Robinson, Vandana Singh. Fulfills the Diversity of Literatures in English requirement.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 40

Crosslisted Courses: CPLT 119

Prerequisites: None

Distribution Requirements: LL - Language and Literature

Typical Periods Offered: Fall

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Not Offered; Spring