Victorianism

Definition

Victorianism refers to the cultural, moral, and social values associated with the Victorian era, which lasted from 1837 to 1901 during Queen Victoria's reign in Britain. It encompasses a strict code of morality, emphasis on family values, and a belief in progress and industrialization, all of which influenced literature, art, and societal norms. This era also experienced a significant crisis of faith as traditional religious beliefs were challenged by scientific advancements and changing social dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Victorianism emphasized a strict moral code and decorum, leading to the rise of social conventions around propriety and respectability.
2. The era was marked by rapid industrialization, which transformed society but also led to issues like poverty and class struggles that questioned previously held beliefs.
3. Literature during this time often explored themes of faith versus doubt, reflecting the crisis of faith experienced by many as science challenged religious views.
4. Women’s roles were heavily defined by Victorian ideals, often seen as the moral guardians of the home but also facing limitations in rights and independence.
5. The clash between traditional values and modern ideas gave rise to movements advocating for social reform, including women's suffrage and workers' rights.

Review Questions

• How did Victorianism influence the moral and social values of its time?
  • Victorianism profoundly shaped the moral landscape of the era with its strict codes of conduct and emphasis on family values. The focus on respectability meant that individuals were expected to conform to societal norms regarding behavior, dress, and relationships. This influence can be seen in literature and public discourse that often highlighted moral dilemmas and the importance of virtue, demonstrating how these values permeated daily life.
• Discuss the impact of industrialization on Victorian society and its relationship with faith.
  • Industrialization during the Victorian era brought about significant changes in society, creating economic growth but also leading to urbanization, poverty, and class disparities. This rapid transformation led many to question traditional religious beliefs as scientific advancements provided alternative explanations for natural phenomena. As a result, a crisis of faith emerged where individuals grappled with reconciling their religious convictions with the realities of an increasingly mechanized world.
• Evaluate how Victorian literature reflected the tensions between traditional values and modernity.
  • Victorian literature served as a mirror to the tensions inherent in a society straddling traditional values and modernity. Many authors tackled themes of personal identity, societal expectations, and moral conflict in their works. For example, novels often portrayed characters struggling against societal constraints or questioning established norms due to evolving ideologies. This reflection not only highlights the anxieties of the time but also illustrates how literature became a platform for dialogue on these crucial issues.

Related terms

Utilitarianism: A philosophical theory that suggests the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or utility, which was influential during the Victorian era.

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that preceded Victorianism, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism, often in response to industrialization.

Social Darwinism: A social theory that applied Darwin's ideas of natural selection to human society, often used during the Victorian era to justify social inequalities.