Goblin market

Definition

Goblin Market is a narrative poem written by Christina Rossetti that tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling enchanted fruit. The poem explores themes of temptation, sacrifice, and the dynamics of sisterhood, connecting closely with the cultural and religious movements of its time, particularly the Oxford Movement, which sought to revive medieval spirituality and aesthetics in Anglicanism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The poem was published in 1862 and is recognized for its rich imagery and musical language, reflecting the influence of both the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and the Oxford Movement.
2. Goblin Market addresses issues of female sexuality and agency, depicting the struggles women face against societal expectations and temptations.
3. Laura's fall into temptation leads to her consumption of goblin fruit, which symbolizes forbidden desires, while Lizzie's self-sacrifice represents loyalty and redemption.
4. The poem can be interpreted as an allegory for spiritual struggle, where Lizzie’s resistance to the goblins embodies the fight against sin and corruption.
5. Goblin Market has been a significant text for feminist literary criticism, illustrating themes of sisterhood as a source of strength in overcoming adversity.

Review Questions

• How does Goblin Market reflect the ideals of the Oxford Movement in its portrayal of spirituality?
  • Goblin Market reflects the ideals of the Oxford Movement through its emphasis on spiritual redemption and moral struggle. The poem highlights the tension between temptation and virtue, showcasing how Lizzie's selfless act for her sister embodies a Christ-like sacrifice. This resonates with the Movement's call to return to deeper spiritual meanings in everyday life, framing Laura's temptation as not just a personal battle but also a broader commentary on faith and morality.
• Analyze how the themes of sisterhood in Goblin Market connect with contemporary discussions about women's roles in society.
  • The themes of sisterhood in Goblin Market resonate deeply with contemporary discussions regarding women's roles, emphasizing solidarity, loyalty, and mutual support. Laura and Lizzie's relationship demonstrates that women can find strength in each other when confronting societal pressures and personal struggles. Their bond serves as a counter-narrative to traditional views of femininity that often isolate women or portray them as competitors, advocating instead for collaboration and empowerment among women.
• Evaluate how Goblin Market serves as both a critique of Victorian society and a reflection of its underlying anxieties regarding female sexuality.
  • Goblin Market critiques Victorian society by addressing its restrictive views on female sexuality while simultaneously reflecting cultural anxieties surrounding women’s desires. By portraying Laura's fall into temptation through the goblin fruit, Rossetti highlights the dangers associated with unchecked female desire in a repressive society. Conversely, Lizzie's resistance showcases an alternative path for women: one where strength lies in loyalty and sacrifice. This duality reveals how Rossetti navigated complex social mores while offering commentary on the roles women could embrace within those confines.

Related terms

Oxford Movement: A 19th-century movement within the Anglican Church aimed at returning to the Catholic roots of Christianity, emphasizing ritual, tradition, and the importance of the sacraments.

Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood: An artistic movement founded in 1848 that sought to challenge academic standards and embrace vibrant colors, detailed realism, and medieval themes in art and literature.

Aestheticism: A late 19th-century movement that championed 'art for art's sake,' emphasizing beauty and sensory experience over moral or social themes in literature and art.