Critical analysis of several religious, social, and sanitary reform writings of the Reverend Charles Kingsley

Abstract

It is the purpose of this study to analyze a number of the major works of the Reverend Charles Kingsley in relation to the religious, social, and sanitary reform efforts carried on by Kingsley from the pulpit, parsonage, and public platfor--in the streets, alleys, and the sick rooms of his parishioners. The novels "Yeast", "Two Years Ago", and "Alton Locke", "Tailor and Poet" are dealt with primarily as didactic literature, and secondly as literature encompassing socio-economic and sanitary problems. The "Sanitary and Social Lectures and Essays" tend to contrast with the novels as completely practical, utilitarian propaganda devices most apropos in a speaking situation. The lectures were most effectively used when Kingsley spoke as an educator at social and sanitary reform workshops.