Space westerns, western science fiction and science fiction westerns are subgenres of literature and film that are used to bring science, history, and art together in this Honors Colloquium taught at Missouri Western State University. Although quite popular with science majors, the course draws students from all disciplines, including the arts, humanities, and professional studies such as business and nursing. The course has been extremely well received in its three offerings since Fall 2008. It begins with a study of themes common to westerns and science fiction such as ‘the rugged individualist’ and ‘the frontier’. These are studied in selected stories that have been told in book form and in film, such as Jack London’s The Call of the Wild and Edgar Rice Burrough’s A Princess of Mars, as well as several examples shown from other works, such as Joss Whedon’s television series Firefly. The course then delves into the history of the American space program. Through selected readings, historical speeches, and works such as the HBO mini-series From the Earth to the Moon, students study how these uniquely American genres and themes helped promote the space program, and are still apparent today. Several films are viewed during class, after which there is discussion on the themes and scientific content. In the final project, students show their creativity by writing a short story that in some way incorporates both science and western themes, and come up with a way to market their story to an audience. The talents that the students share make this a rich and rewarding experience for all. Suggested reading and viewing lists will be provided.

Space Cowboys: A course that weaves art, history, and science through stories and movies

251st National Meeting (2016)

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