Victorian Fears: Madness on the Rails

This chapter examines the Victorian obsession with the danger of violent individuals on trains from 1860 to 1880, highlighting a cultural panic dubbed 'Railway Mad Men'. It unfolds how sensationalist media amplified societal fears about mental illness and transportation safety, resulting in widespread anxiety around train travel. The discussion connects this historical phenomenon to broader themes of masculinity, technology, and mental health perceptions, drawing parallels with literary reflections like Sherlock Holmes.