Heroes classified in the Science Fiction Genre

Heroes classified in the Science Fiction Genre

The television series Heroes fits the genre science fiction because it deals with impossible genetic evolution and superhuman abilities. According to the The Penguin Dictionary of Literary Terms & Theory, “some [science fiction] is concerned with supernatural forces and agencies.” Some of the characters’ abilities are as simple as precognitive dreams and as complex as creating electricity. Each character and their ability(ies) change their lives and the lives around them as they discover what they are capable of. The Penguin Dictionary of Literary Terms & Theory says that science fiction “includes trips to other worlds, quests, and is concerned with dystopia.” One example in Heroes that illustrates this is that Hiro’s gift has him on a ‘mission to save the world,’ as he travels through and freezes time. An instance of another element of science fiction is shown when Peter enters the future New York in June 2008 and sees that the Shanti virus has left New York an empty wasteland. The ‘heroes’ of the story are also trying to protect themselves from having their abilities taken away or the evil characters using their powers to harm the innocent. This ongoing storyline is the apparent quest popular in other science fiction like Star Trek. I also think calling this show or any other work just one genre would be selling it short. Heroes has elements of fantasy, comedy, romance, mystery and drama. This crossing-over of genres is found everywhere in television and probably necessary today. I think there could also be a sub-genre for this called a superhero sci- fi, like X-Men or Spiderman which have made its way into mainstream popular culture. Heroes meets the expectations of its audience because its diversity not only attracts a sci-fi fan base but also anyone interested in drama with an exciting, suspenseful, unique storyline.