Victorian Society

Definition

Victorian Society refers to the social structure, cultural norms, and values that characterized Britain during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901. This era was marked by industrialization, urbanization, and a rigid class system, influencing the themes and characters in literature of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Victorian Society was characterized by a strict class hierarchy that included the upper class, middle class, and working class, each with its own distinct roles and expectations.
2. The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in Victorian Society, leading to rapid urbanization and a shift from rural agricultural life to urban factory work.
3. Victorian values emphasized morality, respectability, and family life, often prescribing strict gender roles where men were seen as breadwinners and women as homemakers.
4. Social reform movements emerged during this period to address issues such as child labor, education access, and women's rights, reflecting a growing awareness of social injustices.
5. Literature from this period often reflected the struggles and conflicts within Victorian Society, with authors using their works to critique social norms and advocate for change.

Review Questions

• How did the class system of Victorian Society influence the themes present in literary works of the time?
  • The class system in Victorian Society created clear distinctions between the upper, middle, and working classes, which authors often explored in their works. Themes of social mobility, class struggle, and the moral implications of wealth are prevalent in many literary pieces. Writers like Dickens highlighted the challenges faced by the lower classes while critiquing the complacency of the wealthy, showcasing how class divisions shaped individuals' lives and experiences.
• Discuss how the Industrial Revolution impacted Victorian Society's cultural norms and values.
  • The Industrial Revolution significantly transformed Victorian Society by altering economic structures and daily life. Urbanization led to new social dynamics as people flocked to cities for work, which changed family structures and living conditions. Cultural norms shifted as industrialization challenged traditional values, resulting in an increased emphasis on efficiency and productivity while also prompting debates about labor rights and social responsibility.
• Evaluate how literature from the Victorian era reflects the tensions within society regarding gender roles and social reform.
  • Literature from the Victorian era often portrayed the tensions surrounding gender roles as women began advocating for their rights amidst a predominantly patriarchal society. Authors like George Eliot and Elizabeth Gaskell depicted strong female characters challenging societal expectations. This reflection of gender dynamics was intertwined with broader social reform movements addressing issues like women's suffrage and education. The literature served not only as entertainment but also as a powerful commentary on societal injustices, ultimately pushing for change within Victorian Society.

Related terms

Class System: A hierarchical organization of society that divides people into different social classes based on wealth, occupation, and education.

Industrial Revolution:

A period of rapid industrial growth that transformed economies from agrarian to industrial, significantly impacting social structures and daily life.

Social Reform: Movements aimed at improving societal issues such as poverty, education, and labor rights that gained momentum during the Victorian era.