Physics in Carnacki′s Investigations: the Role of New Scientific Discoveries in Literature

Abstract

In the stories of Carnacki, created by the English writer William H. Hodgson and written between 1910 and 1912, we find an interesting mixture of science and fantasy. In spite of the fact that Carnacki is a ghost finder, who investigates in an environment where supernatural is acting, we see the character using technology and sometimes discussing of physics phenomena such as X-rays. The Carnacki's stories can be seen as mirrors of the physics and technology knowledge at the beginning of Twentieth Century, in the society outside scientific circles.