Final answer:
Thomas Carlyle made substantial contributions to political reform and literature during the Victorian Era. He was known for his criticism of materialism and advocacy of heroism, and he influenced both the political discourse and the literary culture of his time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two areas in which Thomas Carlyle had his greatest impact on Victorian England were political reform and literature. Carlyle was a Scottish historian and writer whose work focused on advocating for spiritual and social renewal within the tumultuous context of the 19th century. He significantly criticised materialism and mechanistic society brought upon by the Industrial Revolution, emphasizing the importance of heroism and moral values.
Within the realm of political reform, Carlyle's influence came from his belief in strong leadership and the importance of noble figures in shaping history. While his views were not always aligned with mainstream politics, they influenced intellectual discourse through his famous works, including 'Past and Present' and 'Sartor Resartus'.
As for literature, Carlyle's contributions were profound, with his writing style and subjects leaving a considerable mark on Victorian culture. He introduced a unique historical narrative, focusing on the individual's role within society and the spiritual dimension of man's existence, which brought him great acclaim as a social commentator and moralist within literary circles.