Nadine-Muller-Dead-Husbands-and-Deviant-Women-Clues-Vol.30-No.1-Spring-2012-pp.99-109

Nadine Muller

• Recently completed her PhD at the University of Hull

• Research specialties:

  • Contemporary feminist theory and practice

  • Neo–Victorianism

  • Twenty-first century women’s fiction

  • Victorian literature and culture

• Authored and coedited several publications

• Currently working on a monograph about the widow in British literature and culture (1850-2010)

Overview of the Essay

• Title: "Dead Husbands and Deviant Women: Investigating the Detective Widow in Neo-Victorian Crime Fiction"

• Journal: CLUES

• Volume: 30, Number 1 (Spring 2012)

• The detective widow has emerged as a prominent character in neo–Victorian crime fiction over the past decade.

Neo-Victorianism

• Defined as a contemporary interest in reimagining the nineteenth century in literature, art, and culture.

• Marie-Luise Kohlke describes the phenomenon as a fascination reflected in the increase of neo–Victorian novels.

• Major authors like A. S. Byatt and Sarah Waters contribute to a developing neo-Victorian canon since the early 2000s.

Focus of the Essay

• Key subject: The figure of the detective widow in neo–Victorian crime fiction, specifically in Tasha Alexander’s Lady Emily series.

• Significance:

  • This character challenges traditional gender norms.

  • Engages in intellectual, investigative pursuits while navigating societal expectations of mourning and etiquette.

Lady Emily Ashton

• Protagonist of Tasha Alexander's series (2005-present).

• Background:

  • Young, aristocratic widow of Viscount Philip Ashton.

  • Escaped societal matchmaking by marrying for convenience.

  • Investigates various crimes in England and abroad.

  • Notable crime themes include art forgery and political intrigue.

Key Novels in the Series

1. And Only to Deceive (2005)

   • Centers around Philip's death and his involvement in art forgery.

   • Emily's investigation leads to her first case, uncovering the truth behind her widowhood.

2. A Poisoned Season (2007)

   • Involves a Frenchman threatening French government.

3. A Fatal Waltz (2008)

   • Involves political crises in 1890s Vienna.

4. Tears of Pearl (2009)

   • Set in the harem of a sultan in Constantinople.

5. Dangerous to Know (2010)

   • Murder investigation linked to notorious killing reminiscent of Jack the Ripper.

Historical and Cultural Context

• Victorian widows were seen as both respectable and potentially dangerous due to their experiences and societal status.

• Widowhood brings complexities that allow for an exploration of independence and agency.

  • More property rights than spinsters, less restriction than wives.

Mourning Customs

• Emily’s non-traditional reactions to mourning customs highlight societal expectations.

• She grapples with required mourning attire and social isolation despite her personal feelings of relief following Philip’s death.

• Notable quotes from characters highlight societal hypocrisy surrounding mourning practices.

Quotes from the Text

• Emily revealing her lack of romantic feelings for Philip shows the disparity between societal roles and personal realities.

• Cécile’s comment on mourning customs reinforces the gendered expectations that society places on widows.

Intersection of Gender and Detective Fiction

• Emily’s dual identity as a widow and detective allows her to navigate and redefine gender roles.

• The narrative of her investigations raises questions about morality, respectability, and female agency.

Neo-Victorian Heroines

• The essay positions neo–Victorian fiction as engaging in discussions around gender, power, and societal norms.

• Reflects on how these reinterpretations allow modern readers to inquire into both historical and contemporary issues regarding women.

Conclusion

• The detective widow character serves as a catalyst for examining the historical roles of women and the fluidity of gender norms in neo–Victorian contexts.

• Emily's journey symbolizes a negotiation between societal expectations and personal freedom, challenging readers to reconsider the construction of history and identity.