Lady Audley's Secret

Definition

Lady Audley's Secret is a Victorian novel by Mary Elizabeth Braddon published in 1862, which tells the story of a beautiful woman who leads a double life, filled with deception, murder, and social critique. This novel reflects the shifting dynamics of the Victorian era, focusing on themes such as gender roles, class distinctions, and the tension between appearance and reality. It showcases how women navigated a patriarchal society, highlighting the consequences of their choices within restrictive social norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lady Audley's Secret was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a female protagonist who defies conventional gender roles and societal expectations.
2. The novel's plot revolves around Lady Audley's mysterious past, her marriage to a wealthy man, and her attempts to conceal her dark secrets from being exposed.
3. It raised questions about morality and the consequences of deceit, particularly in relation to women's agency and identity.
4. The story reflects contemporary fears about women's autonomy and the potential chaos it could bring to domestic life and society at large.
5. Braddon's work is often regarded as an early example of the sensation novel, combining elements of mystery, crime, and psychological tension.

Review Questions

• How does Lady Audley's character challenge traditional gender roles in Victorian society?
  • Lady Audley embodies a complex character that defies the submissive role expected of women in Victorian society. She is resourceful, cunning, and willing to manipulate her surroundings to maintain her lavish lifestyle. Her actions challenge the notion that women should be passive and obedient, instead presenting a woman who actively engages in deception and takes control of her destiny.
• Discuss the significance of social class in Lady Audley's Secret and how it impacts the characters' interactions.
  • Social class plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics between characters in Lady Audley's Secret. The disparity between Lady Audley’s affluent status and other characters highlights themes of ambition, jealousy, and moral corruption. Characters like Robert Audley grapple with their loyalty and responsibilities towards their class while confronting Lady Audley’s unsettling ascent from poverty to wealth through deceit.
• Evaluate the impact of sensationalism in Lady Audley's Secret on Victorian literature and its reception among contemporary readers.
  • The sensationalism in Lady Audley's Secret contributed significantly to its popularity and stirred public fascination during its time. By blending scandalous elements like bigamy, madness, and murder with societal critiques, Braddon captivated audiences who were both entertained and provoked by these themes. This novel's impact on Victorian literature opened doors for discussions about women's roles and ethical dilemmas, making it a pivotal work in the evolution of the genre.

Related terms

The New Woman: A feminist ideal that emerged in the late 19th century, representing women who sought independence, education, and equality in a male-dominated society.

Social Realism: A literary movement that aims to depict everyday life and the struggles of ordinary people, often addressing social issues and injustices.

Sensationalism: A style of writing that aims to provoke strong emotional responses from readers through shocking or dramatic content.