On knowing nature's syntax: Preliminary cisness, victorian physiology and George Eliot.

As a trans intervention in Victorian studies and historical extension of recent work in trans studies, this article argues that the theorisation of natural laws in mid‐nineteenth century, British physiology produces a 'preliminary cisness' in Victorian sexual science. By then juxtaposing George Elio...

Descripción completa

Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Gender & History Vol. 36; no. 1; pp. 151 - 167
Autor principal: Ferguson, Alexis A.
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Wiley-Blackwell Mar2024
Materias:
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:As a trans intervention in Victorian studies and historical extension of recent work in trans studies, this article argues that the theorisation of natural laws in mid‐nineteenth century, British physiology produces a 'preliminary cisness' in Victorian sexual science. By then juxtaposing George Eliot's Adam Bede with work by Herbert Spencer and George Henry Lewes and undertaking a close study of the characters Hetty Sorrel and Dinah Morris, this article suggests that Eliot offers social sympathy as a non‐cis, epistemological alternative to the ethical risks of pre‐cis sex.