Victorian Era

Definition

The Victorian Era refers to the period of Queen Victoria's reign over the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901, marked by significant social, cultural, and political changes. This era is known for its industrial growth, the expansion of the British Empire, and strict social mores, which influenced literature, art, and societal norms during this time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Victorian Era was characterized by a strong sense of morality and propriety, where strict social codes dictated behavior, especially regarding gender roles.
2. This period saw a rise in literature that reflected the complexities of society, with authors like Charles Dickens and the Brontë sisters addressing social issues through their works.
3. The British Empire expanded significantly during the Victorian Era, influencing global politics and economics while also leading to debates about imperialism and its consequences.
4. Technological advancements like the steam engine and telegraph transformed communication and transportation, contributing to urbanization and changing lifestyles.
5. The era is also known for its contributions to the arts, with movements such as Pre-Raphaelitism advocating for a return to detail and beauty in art against the backdrop of industrialization.

Review Questions

• How did the Industrial Revolution influence social norms during the Victorian Era?
  • The Industrial Revolution brought about massive changes in society, shifting populations from rural areas to urban centers as people sought work in factories. This movement changed traditional family structures and gender roles, as women began to enter the workforce in greater numbers. Consequently, social norms evolved to reflect these changes, often resulting in stricter expectations for behavior and morality as society grappled with the implications of rapid industrialization.
• Discuss the role of literature in reflecting societal changes during the Victorian Era.
  • Literature during the Victorian Era served as both a mirror and a critique of societal changes. Authors like Charles Dickens highlighted issues such as poverty, child labor, and class disparity, using their narratives to evoke empathy and inspire reform. The literature of this time often addressed moral dilemmas and societal expectations, providing insight into the struggles of individuals within a rapidly changing society.
• Evaluate how the Victorian Era's moral values affected its artistic movements and expressions.
  • The Victorian Era's strict moral values profoundly influenced its artistic movements, leading to a dichotomy between realism and idealism in art and literature. While some artists sought to portray life realistically—addressing social injustices—others embraced idealized forms that conformed to societal expectations. This tension reflected a struggle between progressivism and conservatism within art, ultimately resulting in movements like Pre-Raphaelitism that challenged conventional aesthetics while still grappling with Victorian ideals.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution: A period of rapid industrial growth and technological advancement that began in the late 18th century and continued into the Victorian Era, transforming economies and societies.

British Empire: The empire that spanned across various continents during the 19th century, peaking in size and influence during the Victorian Era, establishing British dominance in global trade.

Social Reform: A movement during the Victorian Era aimed at addressing social issues such as poverty, education, and labor rights, leading to significant changes in laws and policies.