The Alternative Modernity of the Bicycle in British and French Literature, 1880-1920

The bicycle was a literary device and a cultural phenomenon in Britain and France at the turn of the century. It symbolized freedom, independence, and modernity, and its popularity led to the development of new forms of literature and art.

Format: Hardback
Length: 292 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

The bicycle, a remarkable invention that revolutionized transportation and culture at the turn of the century in Britain and France, is the subject of this captivating essay. It explores the bicycle's role as a literary device and a cultural phenomenon, examining how it shaped the experiences and perceptions of individuals and communities during this transformative period.

The bicycle's arrival in Britain and France in the early 1900s marked a significant shift in the way period. It provided a new mode of transportation that was affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly, appealing to a wide range of people, from the working class to the upper classes. As the bicycle became more popular, it also became a symbol of freedom, independence, and adventure, inspiring writers and artists to explore its potential as a literary device.

One of the most notable examples of the bicycle's literary significance is the work of Ernest Hemingway. In his novel "The Sun Also Rises," Hemingway describes the protagonist, Jake Barnes, as a "bicycle rider," emphasizing his sense of freedom and independence. The bicycle allows Barnes to travel through the countryside, exploring new places and meeting new people, and it becomes a symbol of his pursuit of happiness and self-discovery.

Similarly, in Virginia Woolf's novel "Mrs. Dalloway," the bicycle is used as a metaphor for the passage of time and the complexities of human relationships. The protagonist, Clarissa Dalloway, rides a bicycle through London on a day that is both ordinary and extraordinary, reflecting on her past and present and contemplating the future. The bicycle's movement through the city serves as a visual representation of her emotional journey and the connections she makes with others.

In addition to its literary significance, the bicycle also played a significant role in shaping cultural attitudes and behaviors in Britain and France at the turn of the century. It promoted a healthy and active lifestyle, encouraging people to exercise and explore their surroundings. It also facilitated social connections, as people could meet and interact with others while riding their bicycles.

Furthermore, the bicycle's popularity led to the development of new technologies and designs, such as the safety bicycle and the tandem bicycle. These innovations made cycling more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of people, including children and the elderly.

In conclusion, the bicycle, as a literary device and a cultural phenomenon, played a significant role in shaping the experiences and perceptions of individuals and communities in Britain and France at the turn of the century. It provided a new mode of transportation that was affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly, and it became a symbol of freedom, independence, and adventure. The bicycle's literary significance is evident in the works of Ernest Hemingway and Virginia Woolf, and its cultural impact is evident in the development of new technologies and designs. As we continue to explore the bicycle's potential as a literary and cultural device, we can learn from its past and apply its lessons to our present and future.

Weight: 581g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474488600