Industrial Revolution

Definition

The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant economic, technological, and social change that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, marked by the transition from agrarian economies to industrialized ones. This shift had profound impacts on society, culture, and the environment, influencing various aspects of literature and thought during the Romantic and Victorian periods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain in the late 1700s, fueled by innovations like the steam engine and mechanized textile production.
2. This period saw a massive shift in population from rural areas to cities, leading to rapid urbanization and changes in social structures.
3. Working conditions in factories were often harsh, with long hours, low wages, and dangerous environments, leading to movements advocating for workers' rights.
4. The Industrial Revolution contributed to the rise of new social classes, including a wealthy industrial capitalist class and a growing urban working class.
5. Literature from this period often reflected the tensions between industrial progress and romantic ideals, highlighting themes of nature versus technology.

Review Questions

• How did the Industrial Revolution influence the themes found in Romantic poetry?
  • The Industrial Revolution significantly impacted Romantic poetry by introducing themes related to nature, industrialization, and human emotion. Poets like Wordsworth and Coleridge reacted against industrialization's mechanization of life by celebrating nature and individual experience. The contrast between the beauty of the natural world and the harsh realities of industrial society became a focal point for Romantic poets who sought to highlight the emotional depth of human experience amidst rapid societal changes.
• In what ways did social changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution manifest in Dickens's novels?
  • Social changes resulting from the Industrial Revolution are vividly portrayed in Dickens's novels through his exploration of class disparities, poverty, and labor conditions. Dickens criticized the dehumanizing effects of industrialization on individuals and families, illustrating the struggles faced by the working class. His characters often navigate grim realities in urban settings, reflecting both the social injustices and moral dilemmas inherent in a rapidly changing society driven by industrial growth.
• Evaluate how the ethical considerations presented in Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' relate to the scientific advancements during the Industrial Revolution.
  • In 'Frankenstein,' Mary Shelley presents ethical dilemmas concerning scientific experimentation that resonate with the rapid advancements of the Industrial Revolution. The novel critiques unchecked ambition and technological progress by illustrating Victor Frankenstein's tragic consequences of creating life without considering moral responsibility. This reflects broader societal concerns during the Industrial Revolution about how science could challenge traditional values and ethical boundaries, raising questions about humanity's relationship with innovation and its potential dangers.

Related terms

Urbanization:

The process by which rural areas became urban centers, driven by the migration of people seeking jobs in factories and improved living conditions in cities.

Capitalism: An economic system characterized by private ownership of production and the creation of goods or services for profit, which became increasingly dominant during the Industrial Revolution.

Factory System: A method of manufacturing that concentrated production in one location, utilizing machinery and a large workforce to increase efficiency and output.