Literature and Religion in Mid-Victorian England From Dickens to Eliot [Hardcover]

This book places Dickens and Wilkie Collins against such important figures as John Henry Newman and George Eliot in seeking to recover their response to the religious controversies of mid-nineteenth century England. While much recent criticism has tended to overlook or dismiss their religious pronouncements, this book foregrounds the religious aspect of their writing and relocates their most important work in the context of contemporary debate. The response of both writers is seen to be complex and fraught with tension.Tradings in Religion: Legislation and Crisis at Mid-Century A Man's Resolution and a Woman's Patience: Fighting the Battle of Life The Redeployment of Doctrine: Treatment of Original Sin, Infant Depravity and Proventialism Subverting Judgement: The Case for Redemption through Sanctification of the Sinner Pet Prisoners and Honest Paupers: Philanthropic Dealings with Poverty and Criminality Conclusion Bibliography Index

'Carolyn W. de la L. Oulton's searching new study...promises to deepen our appreciation of the role nineteenth-century writers played in establising the bases for present-day appeals to the existence of a culture of toleration.' - Times Literary Supplement

CAROLYN OULTON is a Lecturer in the English Department at Canterbury Christ Church University College, Canterbury, UK.