Robert Louis Stevenson, science, and the fin de siècle

Description:

In this fascinating book, Reid examines Robert Louis Stevenson's writings in the context of late-Victorian evolutionist thought, arguing that an interest in 'primitive' life is at the heart of his work. She investigates a wide range of Stevenson's writings, including Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde and Treasure Island as well as previously unpublished material from the Stevenson archive at Yale University. Reid offers a new way of understanding the relationship between his Scottish and Polynesian work, showing how an ambivalent engagement with psychological and anthropological debates unites his oeuvre. She also illuminates the creative intersections between late-Victorian literary and scientific discourses, and demonstrates that Stevenson dealt critically and dynamically with evolutionist thought. Unsettling evolutionist assumptions about the inevitable progress from 'savagery' to 'civilization', his works explore and celebrate the enduring heritage of 'primitive' instincts in modern life.

subjects: Evolution (Biology) in literature,  Criticism and interpretation,  Literature and science,  History,  Europe, economic integration,  European federation,  International and municipal law,  Constitutional law,  English literature, history and criticism, 19th century,  89.72 international organizations,  UE/CE Institutions et organes,  Prise de décision,  Leadership politique,  UE/CE Intégration,  UE/CE Traités,  UE/CE Conférences intergouvernementales,  UE/CE Elargissement,  Europäische Integration,  Politische Institution,  Europese Unie,  Europese integratie,  Politieke instellingen,  Onderhandelingen,  Verdragen,  European Union,  European integration,  Institutional law,  Evolution,  Commercial treaties,  Economic integration,  LITERARY CRITICISM,  European,  English, Irish, Scottish, Welsh

People: Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894)

Places: Great Britain

Times: 19th century