Steampunk

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Steampunk is a subgenre of science fiction or science fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetic designs inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. Steampunk works are often set in an alternative history of the Victorian era or the American "Wild West", where steam power remains in mainstream use, or in a fantasy world that similarly employs steam power.

Origins and Development

The term "steampunk" originated in the late 1980s as a tongue-in-cheek variant of cyberpunk. It was coined by science fiction author K.W. Jeter to describe a genre of speculative fiction that he and his contemporaries, Tim Powers and James Blaylock, were writing. These works were characterized by their setting in a world where steam power was still widely used—usually the 19th century—and often featured anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as people in the 19th century might have envisioned them.

Aesthetic and Themes

Steampunk is known for its distinctive aesthetic, which combines elements of the Victorian era with futuristic innovations. Common themes include:

• Retro-futurism: Imagining how people in the past envisioned the future.
• Alternative history: Rewriting historical events with different outcomes.
• Adventure: Often featuring daring escapades and explorations.
• Social commentary: Critiquing contemporary issues through the lens of a different era.

Literature

Steampunk literature often features a blend of historical and fantastical elements. Notable works include:

• The Difference Engine by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling
• Infernal Devices by K.W. Jeter
• Homunculus by James Blaylock

Film and Television

Steampunk has also made its mark on film and television. Notable examples include:

• Wild Wild West
• The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen
• Steamboy

Fashion and Culture

Steampunk has grown beyond literature and media to influence fashion, art, and culture. Steampunk fashion often includes:

• Corsets
• Top hats
• Goggles
• Bustles
• Pocket watches

Related Genres

Steampunk is related to several other genres and subgenres, including:

• Dieselpunk
• Clockpunk
• Cyberpunk
• Gaslamp fantasy

See Also

• Cyberpunk
• Dieselpunk
• Clockpunk
• Gaslamp fantasy
• Retro-futurism
• Victorian era
• Industrial Revolution