Victorian Era

Definition

The Victorian Era refers to the period of Queen Victoria's reign from 1837 to 1901, marked by significant changes in British society, culture, and politics. This era is characterized by a strong sense of morality, a focus on family values, and rapid industrialization, which transformed social structures and daily life. The Victorian Era's influence extended to Canada, where it played a key role in shaping social norms and cultural developments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Victorian Era saw a dramatic increase in literacy rates due to the expansion of public education and the proliferation of print media, including newspapers and novels.
2. Women began to challenge traditional roles during this time, leading to early movements for women's rights and suffrage as they sought more independence.
3. The era was marked by significant technological advancements such as the steam engine and telegraph, which facilitated communication and transportation.
4. The British Empire expanded significantly during the Victorian Era, influencing Canadian society as many Canadians identified with British values and culture.
5. Art and literature flourished during this time, with notable figures like Charles Dickens and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood reflecting societal issues through their works.

Review Questions

• How did the Industrial Revolution impact social structures during the Victorian Era?
  • The Industrial Revolution dramatically reshaped social structures in the Victorian Era by transitioning societies from agrarian economies to industrial ones. This shift led to urbanization as people moved to cities for factory jobs, resulting in new social classes, including a growing middle class. Additionally, working conditions in factories raised concerns about labor rights and prompted discussions about workers' welfare, which became key issues in Victorian society.
• In what ways did Victorian Morality influence family values and societal expectations?
  • Victorian Morality established strict codes of conduct around family life and personal behavior, emphasizing modesty, respectability, and duty. Families were seen as the foundation of society, with a strong focus on domestic roles. This moral framework dictated that men were expected to be providers while women were caretakers, leading to significant limitations on women's rights but also sparking early feminist movements advocating for change.
• Evaluate the cultural impact of Victorian literature on Canadian society during this era.
  • Victorian literature had a profound impact on Canadian society by shaping cultural norms and values through its themes of morality, class struggle, and identity. Authors like Charles Dickens influenced Canadian writers who addressed similar societal issues within their own contexts. As Canadians engaged with these works, they reflected on their experiences and aspirations, contributing to a unique Canadian identity that was simultaneously informed by British literary traditions while also adapting to local realities.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution: A period of significant technological advancement and industrial growth that began in the late 18th century, leading to urbanization and changes in labor practices.

Social Darwinism: A sociological theory that applied the concept of 'survival of the fittest' to human societies, often used to justify social hierarchies and imperialism during the Victorian Era.

Victorian Morality: A set of values emphasizing strict codes of conduct, modesty, and family-oriented principles that defined social behavior during the Victorian Era.