Victorian Literature

Definition

Victorian literature refers to the body of literary works produced during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901. This period is characterized by a wide range of genres, including novels, poetry, and plays, reflecting the complex social changes, moral dilemmas, and emerging modernity of the time. The literature of this era often grappled with themes such as industrialization, class struggle, gender roles, and the conflict between science and religion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Victorian literature saw the rise of the novel as the dominant literary form, with authors like Charles Dickens, George Eliot, and Thomas Hardy becoming hugely popular.
2. Many Victorian authors used their works to critique social injustices and promote reform, addressing issues like poverty, child labor, and women's rights.
3. The period also witnessed the emergence of literary magazines and serial publications, which allowed authors to reach wider audiences and experiment with narrative forms.
4. The tension between science and religion was a major theme in Victorian literature, highlighted by debates surrounding Darwin's theory of evolution and its implications for faith.
5. Poetry flourished during this time as well, with notable poets like Alfred Lord Tennyson and Elizabeth Barrett Browning exploring personal and societal themes in their work.

Review Questions

• How did Victorian literature reflect the social changes occurring during Queen Victoria's reign?
  • Victorian literature mirrored the significant social changes of the era by addressing issues such as industrialization, class struggle, and gender roles. Authors like Charles Dickens highlighted the harsh realities of urban life and poverty, while others explored the shifting expectations for women in society. This reflection on societal norms allowed readers to engage with contemporary issues through the lens of fiction and poetry.
• In what ways did realism influence Victorian literature compared to earlier movements like Romanticism?
  • Realism shifted the focus of Victorian literature towards authentic representation of everyday life and social conditions, contrasting with the idealism found in Romanticism. While Romantic writers celebrated individual emotion and nature, realist authors like George Eliot emphasized character development grounded in social context. This evolution allowed for deeper exploration of human experience within the constraints of society, shaping the narrative style of many Victorian novels.
• Evaluate the impact of Victorian literature on modern literary forms and themes.
  • Victorian literature laid the groundwork for modern literary forms by introducing complex characters, intricate plots, and social commentary that are still prevalent today. The exploration of psychological depth in characters can be seen in contemporary literature's focus on inner conflicts and moral ambiguity. Furthermore, themes such as social justice and gender equality initiated during this period continue to resonate in modern narratives, demonstrating how Victorian writers not only reflected their time but also influenced future generations of authors.

Related terms

Realism:

A literary movement that sought to depict everyday life and society as it was, often focusing on the lives of ordinary people.

Romanticism:

An earlier literary movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, which influenced Victorian writers even as they explored more complex societal issues.

Gothic Fiction: A genre that blends horror and romance, often featuring supernatural elements and exploring themes of fear and the uncanny, prominent in Victorian literature.