Write an essay on the nature of
Victorian society with reference to its scientific developments and its
legislative reforms.
Answer: The Victorian Age marked a period of great transition in
many aspects of human life. The onset of the industrial revolution changed the
way people made and sold goods, which in turn changed the way people lived.
Industry and agriculture flourished, creating economic prosperity. Laws were
passed to improve the working conditions of the laborers in the mills and
factories. Literature written during this period was changing as a result of
the events that were happening. Religious beliefs were being challenged by many
different viewpoints. The idea of utilitarianism was introduced which believed
that people’s actions should be judged by their moral good, the greatest
pleasure for the greatest number. The ideas of historians were also considered
where they viewed the Bible as a record of historical events rather than a
spiritual handbook. Lastly, the geologic and astronomic discoveries made by
scientists introduced a new, non-spiritual belief.
Scientific
Developments:
The
industrial revolution during Victorian era took the world by a storm. The
invention of the steam engine by
James Watt was the first drop of the avalanche. This began a new era in the
history of the world and changed it forever. The globe shrunk and one could
travel all over the world in less time. Thus, the communication and link
between different places was established and has only improved since then.
All
this was witnessed by those living during the Victorian era in England. The stage coach was one incredible
innovation and made travelling over land so much more easy to use and safer
too. Canals were constructed
during this time were a great help in terms of inland communication. Steam ships, the vessels that brought
the world to Britain were also developed during this time. The railway lines were laid down during
this time.
The invention of railways was one of the most useful inventions of the industrial revolution and of course, the Victorian era. This scientific development led to the easy and cheap transportation of resources, i.e. material and human as well and raw materials from one place to another. The growth of industries and factories found this to be a very beneficial thing.
