While history allows us to look back at massive cultural and social changes with 20/20 hindsight, science fiction and fantasy allow us to explore our own transitions while in the middle of them, projecting possible outcomes based on current circumstances, unexamined assumptions, and probable human motivations. However, the greatest science fiction/fantasy texts bring with them their own history and culture. McCaffrey's first Dragonrider novels had a sense of a civilization that had faded from a more glorious past.

This depth allowed for greater embellishment for McCaffrey both of the characters and Pern, and of our character and earth. As you examine The Dolphins of Pern and these questions, consider the novel's ability to create Pern's history while exploring the implications of the reader's "future" history.

1. What do you make of Aramina's objections to Readis' interest with the dolphins? Does it seem real to you?

What points...