Routledge - The Automaton in English Renaissance Literature

Explore the intersection of literature and science in the early modern period with this scholarly collection from Routledge. The Automaton in English Renaissance Literature examines the concept of the living machine through original essays. This volume looks at everything from animated statues to anthropomorphized machines found within the poetry, prose, and drama of 16th and 17th century England. By placing literary automata within their larger aesthetic, historical, philosophical, and scientific contexts, this book provides a deep look at how early modern writers conceptualized technology and life. The collection moves beyond single theories to offer a broad perspective on the significance of the automaton in English literary history. It is an essential resource for students and researchers interested in the history of science and early modern cultural studies.