Midterm #2 Essays pt. 2

Romantic Literature

Characterized by emotion, nature, and individualism, as seen in works by Wordsworth and Shelley.

Victorian Literature

Emphasizes realism, social critique, and moral responsibility, as exemplified by Dickens, Gaskell, and Tennyson.

Bridge Between Eras

Tennyson’s works, such as 'The Lady of Shalott' and 'Ulysses,' connect Romantic and Victorian themes.

Victorian Fiction

Notable for serial publication, realism, and social commentary; examples include 'North and South' and 'Wuthering Heights'.

Victorian Poetry

Characterized by dramatic monologues and themes of religious doubt, with poets like Browning, Tennyson, and Arnold.

Victorian Drama

Often employs satire and social critique, as seen in 'The Importance of Being Earnest' by Wilde.

Religious Doubt in Victorian Literature

Tennyson’s 'In Memoriam' and Arnold’s 'Dover Beach' reflect struggles with faith amid changing beliefs.

Darwin’s Impact on Victorian Thought

'Origin of Species' challenges traditional religious views and prompts debates on faith and understanding.

Victorian Response to Industrialization

Engels’ 'The Condition of the English Working Class' exposes exploitation and class tensions.

Gaskell’s 'North and South'

Explores the intersections of industrial tension and social class dynamics.

Rossetti’s 'Goblin Market'

Challenges standards of female autonomy and purity within Victorian society.

Browning’s 'My Last Duchess'

Critiques patriarchal control and gender roles through dramatic monologue.

Literature and Mass Literacy

Victorian literature provided accessible novels and moral instruction amid rising secularism.

Start of the Victorian Era

Often considered to begin in 1837 with Queen Victoria's coronation or in 1832 with the Reform Bill.

End of the Victorian Era

Typically viewed as ending in 1901 with Victoria's death or during the late 1800s with the rise of Modernism.

Key Themes in Victorian Literature

Focus on industrialization, class struggle, gender roles, faith vs. doubt, and psychological depth.