Exploring Victorian Anxieties: The Role of Creation and Identity in Alasdair Gray's Poor Things

Abstract

This study investigates the themes of creation and identity in Alasdair Gray's Poor Things, set against the backdrop of Victorian anxieties. The novel presents a compelling narrative centered on Bella Baxter, a woman resurrected through an unconventional scientific procedure, symbolizing the era's fears surrounding medical advancements and the redefinition of identity. By resurrecting Bella, Gray critiques Victorian social norms, particularly regarding gender roles and personal autonomy, illuminating the complexities of individual identity in a rapidly changing world. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, this research intertwines literary analysis with historical context to reveal how Gray reflects and subverts the ideals of his time. The character's journey of self-discovery serves as a vehicle for exploring the ethical implications of creation, questioning the boundaries between life and artifice. This analysis also addresses broader themes of power dynamics and social expectations, showcasing how Victorian anxieties manifest in the quest for self-definition. Ultimately, this study posits that Poor Things not only encapsulates the anxieties of the Victorian era but also provides a progressive commentary on identity that resonates with contemporary discussions about the fluidity of self. Gray's work emerges as a vital contribution to the discourse on the intersections of creation, identity, and ethics in literature.