| In this dissertation, we first propose to look at science-fiction as literary genre and consider the forefathers of Francophone science-fiction, determine the role of the twenty-first century writer and the role of literature in our society and future society. Secondly, we attempt a detailed textual analysis of selected works by authors Maurice Dantec, Michel Houellebecq and Jean-Christophe Rufin. Our focus lies primarily on the importance of language, its potential decline and how humans can still hope to redeem their lives with the medium of art. Finally, we consider the concepts of post-humanity, "end of humanity" and "end of history" in order to help establish criteria for a neo-humanity as described by the aforementioned novelists. |
