On Knowing Nature's Syntax: Preliminary Cisness, Victorian Physiology and George Eliot

As a trans intervention in Victorian studies and historical extension of recent work in trans studies, this article argues that the theorisation of natural laws in mid-nineteenth century, British physiology produces a 'preliminary cisness' in Victorian sexual science. By then juxtaposing George Eliot's Adam Bede with work by Herbert Spencer and George Henry Lewes and undertaking a close study of the characters Hetty Sorrel and Dinah Morris, this article suggests that Eliot offers social sympathy as a non-cis, epistemological alternative to the ethical risks of pre-cis sex.

Automated summary

This article examines the theorisation of natural laws in mid-nineteenth century British physiology and argues that it creates a 'preliminary cisness' in Victorian sexual science. By examining George Eliot's Adam Bede alongside works by Herbert Spencer and George Henry Lewes, the article suggests that Eliot presents social sympathy as an alternative to the ethical risks of pre-cis sex.