In Victorian society, values, attitudes and ways of thinking included -
- lack of belief in religion due to Charles Darwin's theory of evolution published in 1859
- England was becoming increasingly urban
- at the end of the 19th century, "artists and critics were moving toward what would become the "art for art's sake" movement"
2. Describe the major trends and developments of the Victorian era.
During this era, poverty, crime, the art movement (morality and asthetics), Darwin's theory of evoultion, a fading belief in religion and the economic turmoil all contributed to the cultural upheaval in the 1840's and 50's.
3. In one paragraph, give a brief summary of Browning's early years and background.
Robert Browning had quite a fortunate beginning as both his parents took interest in his education and growth. This was the start for his poetry and creative writing/plays. Browning was born in 1812 into a very urban England and many of his writing pieces were based on the world around him. Browning addressed many of the issues such as poverty and morality. The earliest of his works earned negative reviews so he began to work on plays instead. However, he did not find success in playwriting either and so went back to "verse." One of Browning's first important poems was Paracelsus which appeared in 1835.
4. What impact did his childhood and education have on his career as a writer?
His childhood and parents had quite an impact on his career as a writer as the support from his parents meant he felt confident in this field. The interest in writing at a young age was very important as it gave him his foundations for a good career as a writer. Browning was influenced greatly by Percy Bysshe Shelley and from this, he was inspired to become a writer.
5. Give a brief explanation of the term DRAMATIC MONOLOGUE in Victorian poetry.
Dramatic monologue is when the writer gives the speaker their own voice and views. They are seperate from the poet and speak to the implied audience, the silent listeners. By using this technique, Browning allows the speaker to develop a character.
6. What are the three suggested requirements of a Browninesque dramatic monologue?
- Browning often adopts historical characters, generally from the Italian Renaissance.
-His "speaker" does not neccesarily address anyone in particular or even an audience - he is simply musing to himself.
-His alternative persona explores "controversial ideas."
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