Writing Sci-fi & Fantasy Part 4: Historical Sci-fi & Fantasy at the Museum

Following on from the Further Adventures in Science Fiction and Fantasy course, this module will focus on the creation of fantasy and science-fiction stories written from prompts.

Working in partnership with Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, students will be invited to choose from a range of artefacts covering a broad range of periods.

You will spend time examining and learning more about the artefacts and participate in group work to form story ideas, focusing on worldbuilding and character development using the artefacts as prompts and learning how to incorporate elements of truth into your fantasy and science-fiction stories.

Learning and teaching

We will spend 4 sessions at the museum, have access to a range of artefacts, and be invited to discuss them with the curators.

The module will appeal to both experienced writers and those new to creative writing. It will support students in combating the blank page and provide them experience of working with prompts.

There will be two-hour meetings once a week (20 contact hours in all) consisting of museum visits, discussions, exercises, craft lectures, and workshops.

There may also be audio-visual clips and students might be directed to some relevant podcasts and videos.

Students will participate in prompt writing workshops held at the museum. Here students will be given a selection of artefacts covering the Stone Age, Iron Age, Romans, and the Medieval period.

Students will spend time discussing their ideas based on their chosen artefacts and develop historical fantasy stories.

The module will be based around workshops which will include regular peer and tutor feedback. Indicative content is likely to include:

• Where to start with worldbuilding
• Key principles of worldbuilding
• Forming historical narratives from object-based evidence
• Constructing characters
• Fictionizing history
• Polishing your draft

Coursework and assessment

Worldbuilding Extract: 25% - Students will submit a worldbuilding extract based on the artefact of their choosing.

Students will have worked on this piece in the workshop with support from their tutor and peers. 500 words. Due in Week 5.

Portfolio/Single Piece: 75% - Students will submit a polished historical fantasy/sci-fi extract[s] or a short story, accompanied by a short critical reflection. 1500 words. Due at the end of the Module.

Reading suggestions

• Brayfield, C. & Sprott, D. (2014) Writing Historical Fiction: A Writers’ and Artists’ Companion. London: Bloomsbury.
• Darwin, E. (2016) Get started in writing historical fiction. London: John Murray Learning.
• Davies, J. (1993) A history of Wales. London: Allen Lane. The Penguin Press.
• Mandala, S. (2010) The language in science fiction and fantasy: the question of style. London, Continuum.
• Iceman (2017) Echo Film.

Library and computing facilities

As a student on this course you are entitled to join and use the University’s library and computing facilities. Find out more about using these facilities.

Accessibility

Our aim is access for all. We aim to provide a confidential advice and support service for any student with a long term medical condition, disability or specific learning difficulty. We are able to offer one-to-one advice about disability, pre-enrolment visits, liaison with tutors and co-ordinating lecturers, material in alternative formats, arrangements for accessible courses, assessment arrangements, loan equipment and dyslexia screening.