Moral Authority, Men of Science, and the Victorian Novel

Explore the intricate relationship between science and literature in the Victorian era with Moral Authority, Men of Science, and the Victorian Novel by Anne DeWitt. Published by Cambridge University Press in 2016, this compelling paperback spans 290 pages of insightful analysis. DeWitt delves into how renowned novelists such as George Eliot, Thomas Hardy, and H.G. Wells responded to the prevailing notion that scientific practice was synonymous with moral excellence. Through her critical examination, she reveals that these authors ultimately challenged the idea that science inherently provided moral benefits accessible to all, thus redefining the cultural authority of their time. This book is a must-read for those interested in 19th-century English fiction, the intersection of science and literature, and the historical context of moral philosophy. Enhance your understanding of this fascinating period in literary history today!