Christina Rossetti

Definition

Christina Rossetti was a prominent Victorian poet known for her lyrical and deeply emotional works, often exploring themes of love, death, and spirituality. Her poetry reflects the complexities of human experience, intertwining personal sentiment with broader social and religious issues prevalent during the Victorian era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rossetti published her first volume of poetry, 'Goblin Market and Other Poems,' in 1862, which received critical acclaim and established her reputation.
2. Her poetry often incorporates religious themes, reflecting her devout Anglican faith and contemplation of spiritual salvation.
3. Rossetti was known for her vivid imagery and use of symbolism, drawing on nature and biblical references to enhance the emotional depth of her work.
4. In addition to poetry, she wrote a number of devotional works and children's stories, showcasing her versatility as a writer.
5. Despite her literary success, Rossetti struggled with personal challenges, including health issues and the loss of loved ones, which influenced her writing.

Review Questions

• How did Christina Rossetti's personal beliefs influence her poetry?
  • Christina Rossetti's personal beliefs were deeply intertwined with her poetry, particularly her devout Anglican faith. This influence is evident in her exploration of spiritual themes, morality, and the quest for redemption in her work. Her poems often reflect her internal struggles with faith and doubt, allowing readers to connect with her profound emotional depth and the societal values of the Victorian era.
• Analyze the significance of 'Goblin Market' in Christina Rossetti's body of work and its reflection of Victorian society.
  • 'Goblin Market' is significant not only as one of Rossetti's most acclaimed poems but also as a rich allegory that reflects the complexities of Victorian society. The poem addresses themes such as temptation, sexuality, and sisterhood while critiquing societal expectations placed on women. Its unique narrative style and vivid imagery create a lasting impact that invites multiple interpretations related to gender roles and moral dilemmas prevalent during the Victorian era.
• Evaluate how Christina Rossetti's association with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood shaped her literary output and thematic choices.
  • Christina Rossetti's connection to the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood significantly shaped her literary output by influencing her stylistic choices and thematic explorations. The Brotherhood valued emotional expression and detailed imagery, which is evident in Rossetti's use of symbolism and rich descriptions in her poetry. This association allowed her to merge visual art with literary themes, creating works that reflect both personal sentiment and broader cultural critiques relevant to the Victorian period.

Related terms

Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood: An artistic movement founded by Rossetti's brother, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, which sought to return to the detail, intense colors, and complex compositions of pre-Renaissance art.

Victorian Poetry: A genre characterized by its focus on themes of morality, social issues, and emotional depth, often reflecting the cultural and historical contexts of the Victorian era.

Goblin Market: One of Rossetti's most famous poems, it tells the story of two sisters and their encounter with mysterious goblin merchants, serving as an allegory for temptation and sacrifice.