Vintage
"The Mighty Atom" by Marie Corelli, published in 1896, is a controversial and didactic novel that explores themes of education, childhood, and the perceived dangers of modern thought.
Didactic Novel:
Corelli uses the novel as a platform to express her strong opinions on education and societal issues. It's less a story for entertainment and more a vehicle for her social commentary.
Critique of Modern Education:
The book is a scathing critique of what Corelli saw as the harmful effects of "modern" or secular education. She believed that it was undermining traditional values and religious faith, particularly in children.
Childhood and Innocence:
The "Mighty Atom" refers to a precocious but troubled child, and the novel explores the vulnerability of children in the face of what Corelli considered corrupting influences. Corelli was very concerned with the protection of childhood innocence.
Themes of Spirituality and Morality:
Corelli emphasizes the importance of spirituality and traditional morality in shaping children's character. She portrays the consequences of neglecting these values as disastrous.
Controversial Content:
The novel was highly controversial in its time, generating strong reactions from both supporters and detractors. Corelli's strong opinions and dramatic style contributed to the controversy.
Victorian Era Context:
Published in 1896, the novel reflects the anxieties and social debates of the late Victorian era. The book shows the tensions between traditional religious beliefs, and the rise of secularism.
Hardback Format:
A hardback from 1896 is a historical artifact, that shows the importance of the book at the time of publication.
In essence, "The Mighty Atom" is a polemical novel by Marie Corelli that uses a fictional narrative to express her concerns about the perceived dangers of modern education and the importance of traditional values.
The Mighty Atom
By Marie Corelli
Hardback from 1896
Sixty-Third Thousand
Very Good Used Condition - see images. Please see images - first page has come away, marks on front cover etc
