Decadent Ecology in British Literature and Art, 1860–1910

This book examines the interplay of nature, art, and paganism in 19th- and early 20th-century British literature, highlighting its impact on modern ecological thought.

In Decadent Ecology in British Literature and Art, 1860–1910, the intricate connections between nature, paganism, and desire are explored within the context of 19th- and early 20th-century decadent literature and art. This scholarly work merges the environmental humanities with aesthetic, queer, and literary theory, unveiling how art, eco-paganism, and scientific thought converged during the emergence of modern ecological and evolutionary ideas. The book delves into the rich tapestry of late Victorian and Edwardian British art and literature, revealing how these cultural expressions shaped contemporary understandings of nature, identity, and social hierarchies.

The author examines the works of notable figures such as Simeon Solomon, Algernon Swinburne, and Walter Pater, addressing themes like trans-temporal intimacy, the vagabondage of place, and the erotics of decomposition. Through this interdisciplinary lens, Decadent Ecology in British Literature and Art, 1860–1910 highlights the dynamic interplay between art and science, emphasizing how these realms influenced each other during the formation of ecological and environmental discourses. The book also sheds light on the resurgence of pagan spiritualities, such as Celtic and Greco-Roman traditions, and their impact on personal and national identities.

Ultimately, this exploration reveals the pervasive influence of decadence and paganism on modern thought, particularly in relation to queer and feminist politics. By illuminating the networks of nature, art, and desire, Decadent Ecology in British Literature and Art, 1860–1910 presents a compelling narrative that challenges conventional understandings of the period's cultural landscape.