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Victorian Literature: An Overview

Charles Dickens
William Makepeace Thackeray

click here for a biography of Queen VictoriaThe Victorian Era is commonly defined as the period of British history during the reign of Queen Victoria I, between the years 1837 and 1901. This time was characterized by "new imperialism" and the rapid expansion of the British empire. Occasionally known as the Second English Renaissance, the long period of peace experienced by England during this time, despite almost nonstop conflict abroad, brought about a flowering of arts and learning. Because of Britain's recent industrialization, many technological advances occurred during this time, including the spread of photography and electrical lighting.

The different technological and scientific advancements, along with the cultural influences from the colonies, significantly influenced the literature of this period. Victorian novels characteristically include idealistic depictions of less fortunate individuals with strong moral values; the books commonly end with characters receiving their "just desserts". As time progressed, though, authors like Thomas Hardy and George Eliot began to write more realistic and, to the prudish Victorian society, shocking books. This site explores four of the most popular authors of this fascinating hisorical period.

More Victorian Authors

Bram Stoker (author of Dracula)

Click for information about other Victorian authors.

 

 

 

 

 

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Last updated: Wednesday, April 15, 2009