In sci-fi, shields are commonly shown as a form of defense. They could be physical barriers made of super-strong materials or energy fields that repel or absorb incoming damage. Their strength and properties often depend on the fictional world's technology level and the story's plot.
One of the earliest published science fiction works is 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley. It was first published in 1818. This novel explores themes like creation, ethics in science, and the nature of humanity through the story of a scientist who creates a living being.
The earliest science fiction often had a sense of wonder about the future and new technologies. It might explore concepts like space travel, even though the understanding of science was much more limited back then. For example, Jules Verne's works like 'From the Earth to the Moon' showed early ideas of space exploration.
The earliest modern science fiction novel could be traced back to the late 18th century, England's Gibbson's Pilgrim's Progress. The novel described an adventurer who traveled through space to communicate with aliens and explore the world of outer space. This was the earliest science fiction novel in modern times, and also one of the earliest science fiction novels in the world.
One of the earliest uses of lasers in science fiction can be traced back to the 1930s. E.E. 'Doc' Smith's 'Skylark' series might have had early mentions or concepts related to what could be considered laser - like devices. His works were quite influential in the development of science fiction ideas, and he often introduced new and advanced technological concepts that were way ahead of his time.
Well, the idea of artificial intelligence also appeared in some earlier pulp science fiction stories. For example, in the 1930s and 1940s, there were stories that featured mechanical men or super - intelligent machines. However, these were often more simplistic in their portrayal compared to later works. They were usually just seen as either threats or servants, without the in - depth exploration of what it means to be intelligent or sentient that we see in later science fiction works.
Well, 'A Voyage to the Moon' by Cyrano de Bergerac, written in the 17th century, is often seen as an early example. It features fantastical elements that are precursors to modern sci-fi.
Jules Verne was a very important figure in the earliest science fiction. His works, such as 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea' and 'Around the World in Eighty Days', were full of imaginative ideas about exploration and technology.