Energy, Ecocriticism, and Nineteenth-Century Fiction: Novel Ecologies

Energy, Ecocriticism, and Nineteenth-Century Fiction: Novel Ecologies explores how energy concepts can be used to reimagine our relationship with the natural world, focusing on Mansfield Park, Jane Eyre, Great Expectations, and The War of the Worlds. Barri J. Gold suggests that the laws of thermodynamics can be seen as a cultural and conceptual form that can help us better understand our world and interpret it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 215 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Energy, Ecocriticism, and Nineteenth-Century Fiction: Novel Ecologies explores the intersection of energy concepts and nineteenth-century literature, delving into the ways in which these works shape our understanding of ourselves as ecological beings. Barri J. Gold views the laws of thermodynamics not merely as physical principles but also as a cultural and conceptual framework that can be employed to reimagine our complex relationship with the natural world. This book begins by examining the simultaneous emergence of energy and ecology in the mid-nineteenth century, raising the question of how we can enhance our ability to read and interpret our surroundings. It proposes an experimental reading approach and emphasizes the significance of literary studies in a world grappling with the imminent threat of ecological catastrophe.

In Mansfield Park, Jane Eyre, Great Expectations, and The War of the Worlds, energy concepts are used to revisit these beloved novels and examine how they shape our perception of ourselves as ecological beings. Barri J. Gold takes a broader perspective, viewing the laws of thermodynamics not just as physical principles but also as a cultural and conceptual framework that can help us reimagine our relationship with the natural world.

The book begins by exploring the parallel inceptions of energy and ecology in the mid-nineteenth century. It examines the ways in which these concepts were intertwined and how they shaped the prevailing attitudes towards nature and the environment. By examining the literary representations of energy and ecology, the book seeks to understand how these works contribute to our understanding of ourselves as ecological beings.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the concept of entropy. According to thermodynamic principles, entropy is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. In the context of literature, entropy can be seen as a reflection of the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the natural world. The novels examined in the book often depict characters who are struggling to navigate the complexities of the natural world, and their encounters with entropy serve as a metaphor for the challenges they face.

For example, in Mansfield Park, Fanny Price is a young woman who is brought to live with her wealthy aunt and uncle in the country. Fanny is initially naive and innocent, but her experiences in the natural world expose her to the complexities of entropy. She is forced to confront the harsh realities of poverty, social hierarchy, and the destructive power of human nature. Through her interactions with the natural world, Fanny learns to become more resilient and independent, and she develops a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

Similarly, in Jane Eyre, the character of Jane is also confronted with the challenges of entropy. Jane is a young woman who is orphaned and forced to fend for herself in the world. She experiences a series of setbacks and misfortunes, but her determination and resilience help her to overcome these obstacles. Jane's encounters with the natural world, particularly her time spent living in the moors, teach her to appreciate the power of nature and to understand the interconnectedness of all living things.

In Great Expectations, the character of Pip is also shaped by the concept of entropy. Pip is a young boy who is raised in poverty and is destined for greatness. However, his experiences in the world expose him to the harsh realities of entropy. He is manipulated and exploited by those around him, and he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions. Through his journey, Pip learns to become more self-aware and to develop a sense of empathy and compassion for others.

Similarly, in The War of the Worlds, the character of the Martians is a metaphor for the destructive power of entropy. The Martians are a technologically advanced race who invade Earth and destroy everything in their path. Their arrival is a symbol of the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the natural world, and their destruction serves as a warning about the dangers of human intervention in the natural world.

Another theme explored in the book is the concept of energy transformation. According to thermodynamic principles, energy can be transformed from one form to another through various processes, such as heat, work, and electricity. In the context of literature, energy transformation can be seen as a metaphor for the process of growth and change. The novels examined in the book often depict characters who are undergoing a process of transformation, whether it be physical, emotional, or spiritual.

For example, in Mansfield Park, Fanny Price is transformed from a naive and innocent young woman to a more independent and self-aware individual. She experiences a series of setbacks and misfortunes, but her experiences in the natural world help her to grow and develop. She learns to appreciate the value of hard work and perseverance, and she develops a sense of empathy and compassion for others.

Similarly, in Jane Eyre, the character of Jane is transformed through a series of experiences. She is orphaned and forced to fend for herself in the world, but her determination and resilience help her to overcome these obstacles. She experiences a series of romantic relationships and personal growth, and she develops a sense of self-worth and independence.

In Great Expectations, the character of Pip is transformed through a series of experiences. He is raised in poverty and is destined for greatness, but his experiences in the world expose him to the harsh realities of entropy. He is manipulated and exploited by those around him, but his journey teaches him to become more self-aware and to develop a sense of empathy and compassion for others.

Similarly, in The War of the Worlds, the character of the Martians is transformed through a series of encounters with the human race. They are initially seen as a threat, but their interactions with the human race teach them about the value of compassion and empathy. They learn to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world, and they ultimately choose to leave Earth in peace.

In addition to exploring the themes of energy and entropy, the book also examines the role of literature in shaping our understanding of the natural world. It argues that literature can provide us with a unique perspective on the natural world, allowing us to see it in new and innovative ways. The book suggests that by reading literature, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and a sense of responsibility for its preservation.

The book also explores the ways in which literature can be used to promote environmental awareness and activism. It argues that literature can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring individuals to take action. The book provides examples of how literature has been used to promote environmental awareness and activism, such as the works of Rachel Carson, John Updike, and Edward Abbey.

In conclusion, Energy, Ecocriticism, and Nineteenth-Century Fiction: Novel Ecologies is a thought-provoking and insightful book that explores the intersection of energy concepts and nineteenth-century literature. By examining the ways in which these works shape our understanding of ourselves as ecological beings, the book provides us with a new perspective on the natural world and a sense of responsibility for its preservation. The book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of literature, environmental studies, and sustainability, and it will inspire readers to think critically about the ways in which we interact with the natural world.

In conclusion, Energy, Ecocriticism, and Nineteenth-Century Fiction: Novel Ecologies is a thought-provoking and insightful book that explores the intersection of energy concepts and nineteenth-century literature. By examining the ways in which these works shape our understanding of ourselves as ecological beings, the book provides us with a new perspective on the natural world and a sense of responsibility for its preservation. The book is a valuable resource for scholars and students of literature, environmental studies, and sustainability, and it will inspire readers to think critically about the ways in which we interact with the natural world.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030686062
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021