Date of Award
Spring 5-16-2015
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MA English
Department
English
Advisor
Jonathan Farina, Ph.D
Committee Member
Nancy Enright, Ph.D
Keywords
George MacDonald, science, Victorian, novel, 19th century, Lilith
Abstract
This article analyzes George MacDonald’s realist novels. It looks at how David Elginbrod, Alec Forbes of Howglen, and Lilith engage with scientific discourse and epistemological concerns of the period. These scientific and epistemological dealings include a positive evaluation of evolution, a resistance to pseudoscience and Calvinism, an endorsement of non-dualism, and an analysis of scientific models and methods. The generic classification of Lilith as a realist novel with fantastical elements is discussed.
Recommended Citation
Hoenzsch, Karl, "Refiguring George MacDonald: Science and the Realist Novel" (2015). Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs). 2071.
https://scholarship.shu.edu/dissertations/2071
