Lytton Strachey

Definition

Lytton Strachey was a British writer and critic known for his biographical works and essays that challenged the traditional notions of biography in the early 20th century. His most famous work, 'Eminent Victorians,' offered a candid and often irreverent look at notable figures from the Victorian era, reflecting the changing attitudes and values in Edwardian society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Strachey is credited with revolutionizing biography by focusing on the inner lives of his subjects rather than just their public personas.
2. His use of wit and irony in 'Eminent Victorians' marked a significant departure from previous biographical works, appealing to a more modern sensibility.
3. Strachey's writing reflected the shifting cultural landscape of Edwardian society, as it began to question the values of the preceding Victorian era.
4. He was an influential member of the Bloomsbury Group, which sought to redefine artistic expression and intellectual discourse in early 20th century Britain.
5. Strachey's style often blended literary critique with personal insight, making his biographies not only informative but also engaging and thought-provoking.

Review Questions

• How did Lytton Strachey's approach to biography differ from traditional biographical methods?
  • Lytton Strachey's approach to biography was distinctive because he emphasized the personal lives and psychological complexities of his subjects rather than merely recounting their achievements. In 'Eminent Victorians,' he used wit and irony to provide a more nuanced portrayal, challenging the hagiographic style typical of earlier biographers. This shift allowed readers to see historical figures as flawed humans, reflecting broader changes in Edwardian society's values and attitudes toward authority.
• In what ways did Strachey's work reflect or influence Edwardian societal attitudes?
  • Strachey's work mirrored the evolving attitudes of Edwardian society by questioning the moral certainties established during the Victorian era. His candid treatment of previously revered figures suggested a growing skepticism towards established norms and values. By exposing the complexities and contradictions in these lives, Strachey contributed to a cultural environment that embraced modernism and encouraged more critical thinking about history and morality.
• Evaluate Lytton Strachey's impact on modern biography and literature. How did he set the stage for future writers?
  • Lytton Strachey's impact on modern biography and literature was profound, as he redefined how biographies could be written by blending rigorous research with literary flair. His focus on the subjectivity of historical narratives paved the way for future biographers to explore personal perspectives rather than adhering strictly to factual recounting. This approach influenced later writers who embraced modernist themes, allowing for a more fluid understanding of history that incorporated emotional depth, psychological insight, and social critique.

Related terms

Eminent Victorians: A collection of four biographies by Lytton Strachey that critiques the lives and reputations of prominent Victorian figures, showcasing a more subjective and humanized approach to biography.

Bloomsbury Group: A group of English writers, intellectuals, and artists in the early 20th century, including Strachey, who were known for their progressive ideas and influence on modern thought.

Modernism: A broad cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and an emphasis on new techniques in literature, art, and thought.