Depictions of Disability and Masculinity in Victorian Literature: Dinah Mulock Craik’s A Noble Life

Abstract

Dinah Mulock Craik's A Noble Life uniquely depicts disability and masculinity in Victorian Scottish society. The protagonist, the Earl of Cairnforth, is physically disabled and able to rule over his property and subjects with nobility and kindness, almost never being fully hindered by his disability. He is feminized but still regarded as a noble man worthy of respect and honor. This paper explores the relationship between disability and masculinity throughout this novel along with the intersections of religion. The implications of disability representation in the past, present, and future are also heavily considered and analyzed throughout the paper.