Rose-Tinted Goggles: Machinic Nostalgia in Steampunk Technofantasy

The last two decades have witnessed the efflorescence of a strain of neo-Victorian science fiction called “steampunk.” Characterized by the trifecta of neo-Victorianism, retrofuturism and technofantasy, steampunk often features uchronias and Victorian technoscience. Why are we so fascinated by the technology, mores and values of this bygone era? And what about our current moment makes it so susceptible to these Victorian visitations? Come discover the answer to these questions and indulge in nostalgia for the never was that could have been.