18th and 19th Century Literature

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Victorian Society

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18th and 19th Century Literature

Definition

Victorian Society refers to the social, cultural, and moral norms that characterized Britain during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901. This era was marked by a strict social hierarchy, significant industrial progress, and a complex interplay of progress and tradition, which influenced literature through realism and social commentary. The era's focus on morality, domesticity, and the role of women helped shape the themes and narratives present in various literary works.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Victorian Society was heavily influenced by the Industrial Revolution, which transformed Britain from an agrarian economy to an industrial powerhouse, resulting in dramatic shifts in class structure.
  2. The period is known for its strict moral code and emphasis on propriety, often reflected in literature through themes of social responsibility and ethical dilemmas.
  3. Women's roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere, but this also led to a burgeoning movement for women's rights and education towards the end of the Victorian era.
  4. The rise of realism as a literary movement during this time aimed to depict everyday life and social issues accurately, critiquing societal norms and injustices.
  5. Victorian Society also grappled with issues like poverty, class disparity, and colonialism, which became common subjects in literature and art as writers sought to highlight these realities.

Review Questions

  • How did the Industrial Revolution influence the social structure of Victorian Society and its representation in literature?
    • The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in Victorian Society by transforming economic conditions and creating new social classes, particularly the industrial middle class. This shift led to greater urbanization and changes in labor practices. Literature from this period often reflected these transformations, using realism to explore themes related to class struggles, working conditions, and the impact of industrialization on everyday life. Writers sought to portray these changes accurately while critiquing the societal norms that emerged alongside them.
  • In what ways did Victorian ideals about gender roles impact women's representation in literature during this period?
    • Victorian ideals about gender roles dictated that women were primarily responsible for maintaining the home and moral values, leading to their portrayal as paragons of virtue in literature. However, these constraints also sparked a counter-movement among female authors and activists who challenged traditional roles. Literature began to include more nuanced depictions of women's experiences, reflecting their desires for independence and equality. This tension between idealized femininity and real-life struggles became a crucial aspect of literary discourse during the Victorian era.
  • Analyze how Victorian Society's emphasis on morality and propriety influenced themes in realist novels from this period.
    • The emphasis on morality and propriety in Victorian Society deeply influenced realist novels by compelling authors to address social issues while adhering to societal expectations. Themes such as class disparity, ethical dilemmas, and personal responsibility became prominent as writers sought to illuminate societal flaws without compromising moral standards. This created a unique narrative style where characters often faced moral quandaries reflective of the rigid codes of conduct prevalent at the time. Consequently, realist novels served not only as entertainment but also as vehicles for social critique, encouraging readers to reflect on their own values within a rapidly changing society.
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