Abstract

This important new book, including contributions from some of the most distinguished experts in the field, demonstrates that the relation between literature, culture and biology in the nineteenth century is far more complex than habitual references to Darwin would have us believe.

In the field of literary and cultural studies, interest in nineteenth-century biology has been substantial for the last 20 years, yet the focus has been almost exclusively on evolutionary theory, neglecting other branches of nineteenth-century biology. This collection corrects that imbalance, shedding light on other discoveries in cell biology, physiology, neurology and virology. It examines the issue of authority in science, demonstrating the social 'embeddedness' of the natural sciences, and gender issues. It also shows how scientists and creative writers drew on a common imagination as well as narrative techniques and stylistic devices; indeed, often inspired by the same subjects. This important new book, including contributions from some of the most distinguished experts in the field, demonstrates that the relation between literature, culture and biology in the nineteenth century is far more complex than habitual references to Darwin would have us believe.

Anne-Julia Zwierlein is Assistant Professor at the Centre for British Studies, University of Bamberg. She has published a monograph, 'Majestick Milton: British Imperial Expansion and Transformations of Paradise Lost, 1667–1837' (Münster, 2001) and co-edited 'Plotting Early Modern London: New Essays on Jacobean City Comedy' (Aldershot, 2004).

 'Recommended for in-depth reading, which will surely offer illuminating insights beyond the range of specialised professional interests.' —'Anglistik: International Journal of English Studies'

'Each of the essays has a sparkle and charm of its own… [they] take us into relatively unexplored regions and offer fresh insights into their own particular subject area.' —'Victorian Studies'