Supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena or entities that exist beyond the natural laws of the universe, often involving elements that cannot be explained by science or rational thought. This includes beings such as ghosts, deities, and mythical creatures, which play significant roles in various narratives within science fiction and fantasy series. The supernatural often serves as a crucial plot device, creating tension and conflict while exploring themes of existence, morality, and the unknown.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In science fiction and fantasy series, the supernatural often challenges characters' beliefs and perceptions about reality, leading to character development and thematic depth.
2. Supernatural elements can serve as metaphors for real-life issues such as fear of the unknown or moral dilemmas faced by individuals.
3. Many popular series blend supernatural elements with scientific explanations, creating a unique narrative tension between what is known and what is imagined.
4. The use of the supernatural can influence genre conventions, where certain tropes like time travel or alternate dimensions rely on bending the rules of reality.
5. The portrayal of supernatural beings varies widely across cultures and genres, often reflecting societal fears or aspirations related to life, death, and existence.

Review Questions

• How does the incorporation of supernatural elements enhance character development in science fiction and fantasy narratives?
  • The inclusion of supernatural elements in narratives often forces characters to confront their fears, beliefs, and moral choices. For instance, encountering a ghost or deity can lead to profound personal transformation as characters grapple with their understanding of life and death. This confrontation can reveal deeper layers of a character's personality, making them more relatable and dynamic.
• Discuss how supernatural phenomena can act as metaphors within science fiction and fantasy stories.
  • Supernatural phenomena in these genres frequently symbolize real-world issues, such as societal fears or personal struggles. For instance, a story featuring vampires may metaphorically address themes of addiction or immortality. By using the supernatural as a narrative tool, writers can explore complex topics in a more imaginative way while engaging the audience's emotions and thoughts.
• Evaluate the role of the supernatural in shaping genre conventions within science fiction and fantasy series.
  • The supernatural plays a pivotal role in defining genre conventions by establishing expectations for both plot and character dynamics. For example, common tropes like magic systems in fantasy or alien life forms in science fiction allow for innovative storytelling that challenges the boundaries of reality. Analyzing how these conventions evolve with cultural shifts reveals deeper insights into human nature and societal changes.

Related terms

Mythology: A collection of myths or stories belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition that explains the origins, deities, and moral lessons of that culture.

Paranormal: Events or phenomena that are beyond the scope of normal scientific understanding, often associated with ghosts, extraterrestrial beings, or other unexplained occurrences.

Fantasy: A genre of fiction that involves magical elements, fantastical creatures, and imaginary worlds that are not constrained by the laws of reality.