I remember going to see the original Star Wars in 1977 (yes, I’m that old) and have been a fan of the series since that day. Recently, a friend and I had a “lively” discussion as to what genre Star Wars should fall in… science fiction or fantasy.

The difference between science fiction and fantasy has been debated for years. Rod Stirling claimed that science fiction was “the improbable made possible,” while fantasy was “the impossible made probable.” Put another way, science fiction deals with scientific and technological advances that could possibly occur, while fantasy exists only in the arena of imagination.

If we take a hard look at Star Wars, we see elements of both genres. Much of the story deals with a society of advanced technology, where star travel and robots are commonplace. In many ways, it is easy to see the technology used in the story as a simple progression of what we have today. This would seem to throw Star Wars into the science fiction category.

The existence of the Force in the Star Wars universe throws us a curve ball, adding elements of fantasy to the story. The Force is a mystical energy that gives Jedi what seem to be magical powers. The Jedi, while the sworn keepers of peace, seem to be a religious cult, sort of a warrior-monk. Rather that fight with laser pistols like everyone else, they engage in sword play with lightsabers. And the sworn enemy of the Jedi? The Sith, another religious cult.

So what we end up with is a tale that has elements of both science fiction and fantasy. This is nothing new, as writers have blended the two genres for decades. From 1912 to 1933, Edgar Rice Burroughs penned the Barsoom series. This was the tale of a Confederate soldier transported to an alien world where elements of fantasy collided with the scientific speculation of the day.

In the 1930’s through 50’s, we see many such stories that blend the two genres. Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers blend elements of the genres. And of course, let’s not forget comics. Look at the abilities of Superman…many can be explained logically, but the power of flight and x-ray vision fall into the fantasy category.

I’ve blended a few characteristics of the two genres in my Chronicles of Aria Prime series. The story begins with a classic space opera feel. After the Trident and her passengers crash on Aria Prime, the story moves into the realm of a survival tale. The native races of Aria Prime are living in the Medieval period, and continue to refer to a “Black Sorceress,” which is certainly fantasy genre territory.

So what did my friend and I decide on? Let’s just say that we agree to disagree. Personally, I feel Star Wars falls into the category of “science fantasy,” while he sees it as pure science fiction. What about you…where do you think the tale falls? Fantasy? Science fiction? Or somewhere in between? Lets hear what you think in the comments section below!

Thanks for reading!