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When artificial humans too closely resemble actual human beings, feelings of eeriness or revulsion can be elicited in human observers - the ‘uncanny valley’ effect. Something to be avoided in robotics, in fiction this effect has been a source of endless fascination. Tales of the supernatural, science fiction and horror often use doubt about the human or non-human status of fictional characters to structure imaginary worlds. What can our engagement with artificial humans in fiction tell us about our own humanity? How can emotional entanglement with not-quite-human characters help us critically reflect on aspects of reality? Class will be discussion-based with accompanying readings from literary theory, philosophy, sociology and other fields addressing relevant themes. Authors may include ETA Hoffmann, Nietzsche, Freud, Wittgenstein, Kafka and Philip K. Dick. Films may include Blade Runner and Get Out.