The reading group on Pseudo/Sciences of the Long Nineteenth Century is a collaborative venture between Newcastle University and the Literary and Philosophical Society. The group is open to scholars, students and researchers as well as members of the public with an interest in nineteenth-century science, pseudoscience and literature. For each session we read a combination of primary and critical material which is introduced by an invited guest. Topics range from phrenology and mesmerism to hysteria and Freudian psychoanalysis, from transcendental fiction, pseudoscience in ghost stories to the impact of scientific discoveries on art and literature. The group welcomes expression of interest from people who would like to present readings at one of the sessions.
The 2014-2015 programme begins on Monday 13 October when Dr Stacy Gillis from Newcastle University School of English will be considering ‘Sexual Desire, Transcendence and the Edwardian Novel’. Readings will be posted on the website where you will also find more information about the group and forthcoming events.