Identity Dilemmas:A Legal Perspective of Poor Things
The legal issues revealed in Alasdair Gray's novel Poor Things(1992)have seldom been ad-dressed.The scientific experiments in the novel clash with 19th century British law,and as a scientific crea-tion,Bella's legal identity arouses dispute.The novels also reflects how the marriage laws of the Victorian era deprived women of their independent identity and autonomy,further entrenching their subordinate sta-tus.In the context of rapidly advancing medical science,these legal dilemmas and issues of female identity become even more prominent.Bella's story underscores the complex interplay among 19th century medical practices,legal frameworks,and women's identities,providing insights into the adaptability of law in the face of new scientific and technological advancements.