CLAS 132: Fantasy and Science Fiction Then and Now                                      

Course Description

When did science-fiction first appear in literature? The beginnings of modern fantasy and science-fiction are set around the 19th and 17th century respectively. However, fantasy and science-fiction stories and themes are already present in the Greco-Roman world. In CLAS 132, students read one of the first fantasy/science-fiction works, Lucian’s True History. True History is a 2nd c. AD unique work of fantasy and fiction interwoven with facts and the truth of its own era in which the narrator and his comrades set out to explore the, then, unknown world. During their extraordinary voyage which takes place in imaginary overseas and in the outer space, they sail to utopian and dystopian lands where they encounter out-of-this-world creatures. Reading the True History in parallel with different ancient and modern works, the students traced the development of the fantasy and sci-fi genres in literature and cinema and explored the influence of classical literature on these genres.

Assignment Details & Instructions

Assignment Type: Creative Group Project

Project Title: Lucian’s True History: The Comic Book

Project Description & Objectives: For their final group project, students were asked to reimagine one of the scenes/episodes from Lucian’s True History into a comic-book format. The objective of this group project was for students to explore the creative process of transforming an ancient Greek narrative into a visual-storytelling format by creating a comic book adaptation. This project aimed, on a first level, to enhance the students’ understanding of both written and visual storytelling, as well as foster collaboration within the members of each group. On a second level, it aimed to encourage the students to think of ways that would allow them to effectively share their academic interests and work with audiences outside of academia.

Length of Comic Book Section: 2 to 4 comic strips of 4 to 6 boxes each

Task Division:

• Groups of 4: 2 members on narrative, 1 member on artistic portrayal, 1 member on comic strips assembly or 1 member on narrative, 2 members on artistic portrayal, 1 member on comic strips assembly

• Groups of 5: 2 members on narrative, 2 members on artistic portrayal, 1 member on comic strips assembly

• All group members partake in the design/aesthetics decisions.

Instructions for the Creation of the Comic Book

1.     Storyboarding: Develop a storyboard that outlines the key scenes and events from the novel. Consider the pacing, sequencing, and flow of the story in the comic book format. Each group member should actively contribute to the storyboard creation.

2.     Character Design: Design characters with attention to detail, ensuring that they visually represent the personalities and traits described in the novel. Create character sheets that include key visual elements and characteristics for consistency.

3.     Visual Medium, Style and Aesthetics: Discuss and decide on the the medium/way you will use to create the visual part of your comic book (e.g. hand-drawn, digital art, AI-generated art) as well as the visual style and aesthetics of your comic book. Consider how the art style will complement and enhance the narrative. Explore color schemes, panel layouts, and overall design elements.

4.     Dialogue and Narration: Adapt the novel's dialogue and narration for the comic book format. Decide on the placement of text within panels and consider how to effectively convey the narrative through a combination of visuals and words.

5.     Collaboration and Communication: Foster open communication within the group. Schedule regular meetings to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide constructive feedback. Utilize online collaboration tools if needed.