Narration of Evolutionary Theory and Educational Thought

A Case Study of Victorian Children's Literature

Abstract

Darwin's theory of evolution not only challenged the omnipotence of the Western Christian God but also eroded anthropocentrism, causing identity anxiety and crises of belonging among Christian believers in Britain. This influence extended to literature, where Victorian children's literature authors like Kingsley, Carroll, and Kipling engaged in a dialogue with evolutionary theory. They explored the fantasy nature of children's literature and the proximity of children to animals to address the anxieties and confusion arising from evolution. Embracing Darwin's ideas, these authors argued that anatomy, morphology, and even language could not distinguish humans from animals; only morality, emotions, imagination, and creativity facilitated human evolution. They warned against moral decline leading to evolutionary reversal and emphasized the need for education to focus on these qualities rather than rote memorization.