wolfgang schivelbusch the railway journey summary

Wolfgang Schivelbusch's 'The Railway Journey' Summary: A Cultural Analysis of Time and Space

Wolfgang Schivelbusch's seminal work, 'The Railway Journey,' is a cultural analysis that explores the impact of the railways on society during the 19th century. Originally published in German as 'Geschichte der Eisenbahnreise' in 1977, the book was later translated into English and published by Urizen Books in 1979. The first University of California Press edition appeared in 1986.

Schivelbusch's book is a groundbreaking study that examines how the railways changed the way people perceived time and space. With the advent of rail travel, humans were able to cover vast distances quickly and efficiently, which had far-reaching consequences for society as a whole. The author argues that the railway journey not only transformed the physical landscape but also reshaped cultural attitudes towards space, time, and human interaction.

The book is divided into several chapters that explore different aspects of the railway's impact on society. Schivelbusch examines how the railways influenced urban planning, architecture, and art, as well as the way people experienced travel and leisure. He also discusses the role of the railways in shaping national identity and the development of modernity.

One of the key arguments made by Schivelbusch is that the railway journey was a symbol of modernity and progress. The ability to travel quickly and efficiently over long distances was seen as a hallmark of advanced civilization, and the railways played a significant role in spreading this idea across Europe and North America.

However, Schivelbusch also highlights the negative consequences of the railways on society. He argues that the increased speed and efficiency of rail travel led to the erosion of traditional social bonds and the decline of local communities. The author also explores how the railways contributed to the growth of cities and the development of a more industrialized society.

Throughout the book, Schivelbusch draws on a wide range of sources, including historical accounts, literary works, and visual arts. He also engages with the work of other scholars, such as Marx and Weber, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the railway's impact on society.

In conclusion, 'The Railway Journey' is a thought-provoking book that offers a nuanced understanding of the cultural and social implications of the railways during the 19th century. Schivelbusch's work is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of technology, sociology, or cultural studies.

Wolfgang schivelbusch the railway journey summary