Victorian Era

Definition

The Victorian Era refers to the period of Queen Victoria's reign from 1837 to 1901, marked by significant cultural, political, and social change in Britain. This time was characterized by industrial progress, the expansion of the British Empire, and a rise in literary output that included themes of morality, social reform, and the exploration of the human condition. The era's influence can still be seen in modern literature and criticism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Victorian Era is known for its strict social codes and moral standards, which often dictated personal behavior and societal norms.
2. This period saw a rise in novels as a popular literary form, with authors like Charles Dickens, George Eliot, and Thomas Hardy gaining widespread acclaim.
3. Literary criticism during the Victorian Era began to take shape, influenced by works like 'On the Sublime' which affected how literature was analyzed regarding beauty and emotional impact.
4. The expansion of the British Empire during this time brought diverse cultures into contact with Victorian society, influencing literature with themes of imperialism and colonialism.
5. Technological advancements such as the printing press allowed for wider distribution of literature, leading to an increase in readership and literary engagement among the masses.

Review Questions

• How did the values and societal norms of the Victorian Era shape its literature and critical response?
  • The Victorian Era was characterized by strict social codes and moral standards that deeply influenced its literature. Writers often explored themes of morality, social justice, and personal integrity within their works. The critical response during this time tended to reflect these values, focusing on moral lessons and the emotional impact of literature on readers. This interplay between societal expectations and literary expression shaped a unique critical landscape that still resonates today.
• In what ways did the Industrial Revolution impact the literary themes and forms that emerged during the Victorian Era?
  • The Industrial Revolution significantly transformed society during the Victorian Era, leading to themes of urbanization, class struggle, and technological change in literature. Many authors responded to these changes by depicting the harsh realities of industrial life, highlighting issues such as poverty and labor rights. Additionally, the rise of the novel as a literary form allowed for deeper exploration of characters' inner lives against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, thus enriching literary discourse during this time.
• Evaluate how 'On the Sublime' influenced later literary criticism within the context of Victorian literary trends.
  • 'On the Sublime' offered critical frameworks that emphasized emotional resonance and aesthetic experience in literature. These ideas permeated Victorian literary criticism by encouraging writers and critics to explore deeper emotional states and moral implications within texts. As Victorian writers grappled with complex societal issues, this influence led to a more nuanced understanding of literature as a means of both reflection and critique. The legacy of such critical thought can be seen in how literature is analyzed today regarding its emotional depth and cultural relevance.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism, which influenced many Victorian writers.

Industrial Revolution: A period of major industrialization during the late 18th and early 19th centuries that transformed economies from agrarian to industrial, greatly impacting society and literature in the Victorian Era.

Social Reform: The movement aimed at improving society by addressing issues like poverty, education, and labor rights, which became prominent themes in Victorian literature.