The Surprising Origins of Sci-Fi – Wisecrack Edition

The video explores the history of sci-fi through three ancient works: Lucian's 'A True Story', Bacon's 'New Atlantis', and Voltaire's 'Micromegas'. Each story is analyzed for its contribution to the genre and its engagement with the science of its time. The video is sponsored by the sci-fi show 'Impulse', and concludes with an interview with its star, Maddie Hasson, discussing her role and the show's themes.

What is the main theme of the video sponsored by Impulse?

• The history of modern technology

• The secret history of science fiction

• The evolution of fantasy literature

• The impact of sci-fi on modern cinema

What is unique about Lucian's 'A True Story' in the context of sci-fi?

• It was the first sci-fi work to feature time travel

• It is considered the earliest surviving example of Western sci-fi

• It was the first sci-fi work to be adapted into a film

• It introduced the concept of parallel universes

How does Lucian's work critique the scientific practices of his time?

• By predicting future technological advancements

• By promoting the use of telescopes

• By advocating for the scientific method

• By satirizing the bold claims of contemporary writers

What is the central idea of Francis Bacon's 'New Atlantis'?

• A society that rejects technological advancements

• A world where magic and science coexist

• A dystopian future ruled by technology

• A utopian society driven by scientific discovery

Which concept does Bacon's 'New Atlantis' explore that was ahead of its time?

• The creation of a digital society

• The use of submarines and airplanes

• The rejection of scientific methods

• The integration of magic into daily life

What does Voltaire's 'Micromegas' primarily question?

• The centrality of humans in the universe

• The existence of extraterrestrial life

• The ethics of scientific experimentation

• The possibility of time travel

How does 'Micromegas' engage with the science of its time?

• By dismissing the importance of scientific inquiry

• By predicting the invention of the microscope

• By referencing contemporary scientific discoveries

• By proposing new scientific theories

What is a key theme in the interview with Maddie Hasson?

• The future of sci-fi television

• The historical accuracy of 'Impulse'

• The emotional depth of her character in 'Impulse'

• The technical challenges of filming sci-fi

What aspect of her character did Maddie Hasson find most challenging?

• Portraying the emotional trauma

• Interacting with other characters

• Understanding the sci-fi elements

• Performing action scenes

How did Maddie Hasson prepare for her role in 'Impulse'?

• By studying sci-fi literature

• By meeting with a therapist

• By learning martial arts

• By attending acting workshops