What is the steam-punk era?

The steampunk era is a subgenre of science fiction and fantasy that incorporates technology and aesthetics inspired by the 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery. It is set in an alternate history where steam power is the predominant form of technology and where many devices and contraptions are powered by steam.

Steampunk stories often feature elements such as:

- Intricate machinery, including steam-powered vehicles and airships.

- Victorian-era clothing, architecture, and design aesthetics.

- Advanced scientific discoveries and inventions, often with a retro-futuristic twist.

- Social and political themes that reflect the era, such as class conflict, colonialism, and the impact of technology on society.

Popular steampunk works include novels such as "The Difference Engine" by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling, "Leviathan" by Scott Westerfeld, and "Steamheart" by Elizabeth Bear. Steampunk is also prominent in film, with examples including "Wild Wild West," "The Golden Compass," and "Hugo." Additionally, steampunk elements can be found in video games, fashion, and other creative mediums.