AI as a Literary Character: Reimagining the Human-Machine Relationship in 21st Century Fiction

Abstract

The 21st century marks a pivotal evolution in the literary portrayal of artificial intelligence (AI), as narratives increasingly shift from traditional depictions of AI as mechanical tools or existential threats to more human-like characters. This transformation reflects broader societal dialogues around technology, ethics, and identity in the age of rapid AI advancement. Contemporary fiction presents AI as sentient beings capable of emotional depth, ethical dilemmas, and self-awareness, prompting readers to question the boundaries between human and machine. This article delves into the reimagining of AI as literary characters, focusing on how authors use these entities to explore themes of consciousness, agency, and moral complexity. Through a critical analysis of notable works such as Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro, Machines Like Me by Ian McEwan, and Galatea 2.2 by Richard Powers, the study reveals how literature interrogates and redefines the human-machine relationship. The article also examines the emerging phenomenon of AI-generated literature, blurring the lines between creator and creation. Ultimately, this study illustrates that AI, as a literary character, serves not only as a mirror to human nature but also as a lens through which we confront our evolving relationship with technology and redefine the essence of being human.