Reckoning with the Beast

The book explores the Victorian era's heightened concern for animal welfare, highlighting the involvement of influential figures, including the monarchy and religious leaders. It provides a fresh perspective on how this movement intersected with broader societal issues, such as attitudes toward sex, pain, child labor, women's rights, poverty, and scientific progress. Through this lens, the author reveals the complexities of Victorian culture and the significant role that animal rights played in shaping social consciousness during this transformative period.