Victorian Poets: Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Most celebrated woman poet of the Victorian era.
Recognized by prominent figures such as Wordsworth, Queen Victoria, Christina Rossetti, Edgar Allan Poe, and Emily Dickinson.
Early success as a writer; became reclusive and isolated due to illness in her teens.
Actively wrote and corresponded with literary and public figures despite isolation.

Entered a romantic relationship with Robert Browning in 1845 (she was 40, he was 33).
Eloped with Robert Browning in 1846 to Italy, leading to a recovery in health, the start of their family, and a continued writing career.

Sonnets from the Portuguese (1850)
- A collection of sonnets expressing deep emotion and love.
Aurora Leigh (1856)
- A significant work combining poetic narrative and social commentary, advocating for the role of women in literature.

Robert Browning to Elizabeth Barrett (10 Jan. 1845)
- Expresses deep admiration for her poetry, emphasizing the impact her verses had on him.
- Describes his honest and heartfelt regard for her talent.
Elizabeth Barrett to Robert Browning (18 Sept. 1846)
- Reflects the intensity of their emotions in their relationship.
- Highlights her anticipation of their union and the reverence with which she speaks of him.

Self Portrait: Art's Purpose
- Declarative intent: "I. . . Will write my story for my better self."
- Expresses a connection to the external world while delving into her inner self.
Familial Background
- Mother: Florentine, died young.
- Father: English and stern.
- Descriptive imagery of first meeting their parents: contrasting perceptions.
Mother's Influence
- Her Mother’s Portrait portrays the duality of her presence/absence in Aurora's upbringing.
- Mythical references: Muse, Psyche, Medusa.
- Emotional weight conveyed through phrases like "leaving her last smile" versus "without smile or kiss."
Aurora’s Education
- Arrival in England described with a focus on nature and personal transformation.
- Influence of a strict aunt advocating for a 'virtuous life' as confining.
Lessons in Education
- The instructive value of language, history, and arts examined.
- Critique of conduct books that limit a woman's intellectual scope.
- Emphasis on the symbolical power of women’s works.
Discovery of Poetry
- Art’s role as a means to enlightenment amidst darkness.
- The poet portrayed as a prophetic voice conveying essential truths about the soul and existence.

From Book 5
- Poets should strive for double vision: understanding both the close details and the broader context of life.

Context and Themes
- The sonnet lists various profound expressions of love, showcasing both depth and breadth.
- Key themes include selflessness, passion, faith, continuity beyond death, and the transcendence of love.
- Notable concluding lines: "if God choose, I shall but love thee better after death."

"Clasped Hands of the Brownings" by Harriet Goodhue Hosmer
- A symbolic art piece illustrating the union and mutual support in the Browning's relationship.