Early Influences:
* Ancient Myth and Legend: Stories about gods, monsters, and fantastic journeys (like the Odyssey) contain elements that foreshadow science fiction.
* Medieval Romances: Tales of chivalry and magic often featured fantastical technologies and impossible journeys, hinting at future possibilities.
* 17th and 18th Century Enlightenment: This period emphasized reason and scientific progress, influencing writers who explored the potential of technology and scientific discoveries.
Early Science Fiction Works:
* "The Man in the Moone" (1638) by Francis Godwin: A story about a man who travels to the moon via a chariot pulled by geese, considered an early example of space travel fiction.
* "Somnium" (1634) by Johannes Kepler: A dream-like story about a journey to the moon that was considered a significant early work of science fiction.
* "Gulliver's Travels" (1726) by Jonathan Swift: A satirical novel that explores themes of science, technology, and social commentary, often considered a foundational work.
* "Frankenstein" (1818) by Mary Shelley: This gothic novel explores the ethical consequences of scientific advancement, marking a turning point in the development of science fiction.
The Birth of Modern Science Fiction:
* Jules Verne (1828-1905): Verne is widely considered the "father of science fiction" due to his highly imaginative and scientifically grounded stories about inventions and future technologies, like "Journey to the Center of the Earth" (1864) and "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" (1870).
* H.G. Wells (1866-1946): Wells explored social and political themes in his science fiction, often incorporating futuristic elements, like "The Time Machine" (1895) and "The War of the Worlds" (1898).
Conclusion:
While there's no definitive starting point, it's safe to say that science fiction emerged gradually over centuries, drawing inspiration from various sources and evolving through the works of influential writers. The 19th century, with Verne and Wells, is generally considered the birth of modern science fiction as we know it.