Science Fiction the New Mythology
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A famous French novelist named Michael Butor once wrote, "Science Fiction represents the normal form of mythology in our time; a form which is not capable of revealing profoundly new themes, but capable of integrating themes of old literature." Although this takes some credibility away from science fiction by saying that the genre does not create new themes, it does touch on an important and relevant idea concerning the class. This idea is that science fiction and myth have a certain connection that interlocks the two forms. The connection of the two has brought many to believe that science fiction is the new mythology of the modern world.
The use of myth in storytelling is perhaps the most powerful method of relating the reader to the story. A story must grab hold of the reader and stimulate some inner sense in order for the reader to believe. Without the stimulation the reader is just looking at meaningless action. To achieve the bond between writer and reader, authors often use myths in their tales as a practical way to connect the reader. Using mythology in literature generates for the reader, a sense of prior knowledge regarding the issues of book. By alluding to ideas that have already been told and accepting, the author can accomplish an instant understanding between previously emphasized idea and its relation to his/her piece of work...