Science and the Humanities: Are They Two Polar Entities?

Science and the humanities are often perceived as being separate entities. In academic settings, there is little to no overlap in these courses of study. One can obtain a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree, but there are no academic majors that allow for the study of both the humanities and the sciences. Despite the seemingly different courses of study, it is through careful examination of literature and thoroughly delving into pieces of literature in order to excavate the meaning and purpose behind the work, that one is able to see the distinct connections between the two academic fields. While there are numerous literary periods that show this connection, the British Romantic and Victorian eras truly highlight the connections between literature and science. The advent of new technologies, which significantly changed the economy of England during the Industrial Revolution, serve as a significant backdrop and point of argument for the writers of these eras. The authors were inspired by new scientific theories, as well as the impact the new technologies were having on England and used this information to craft stories, poems, and essays. Authors such as Mary Shelley, William Wordsworth, Charles Dickens, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and others used their literary platforms to showcase the science of the day in their works. Through this examination of the chosen texts, it is apparent that science and the humanities work together in literary works to enhance the meaning and show the importance and influence science can have on the humanities.