The Victorian Age

   The Victorian era was a period of dramatic change that brought England to its highest point of development as a world power.   The Victorian period formally begins in 1837 (the year Victoria became Queen) and ends in 1901 (the year of her death).  1830 is usually considered the end of the Romantic period in Britain, and thus makes a convenient starting date for Victorianism. During the 19th century, the British empire extensively expanded its colonial presence in many parts of Africa, in India, in the middle-east and in other parts of Asia.  This process has had many long-term effects, including the increased use of the English language outside of Europe. The period saw the rise of a highly idealized notion of what is “English” or what constitutes an “Englishman.” Many colonists and politicians saw it as their political duty to “help” or “civilize” native populations in colonized regions. Thus they have a model which provides a set of standards and codes of conduct. Later Victorian writing saw the seeds of rebellion against such idealized notions and stereotypical codes of conduct.

   Literacy increased significantly in the period, and publishers could bring out more material more cheaply than ever before.  The most significant development in publishing was the growth of the periodical. By the end of Victoria’s reign, women could take degrees at twelve universities.  Hundreds of thousands of working-class women labored at factory jobs under appalling conditions, and many were driven into prostitution.

  The Victorian era lasted roughly twice as long as the Romantic period. Romantic period saw a wide variety of distinguishing characteristics, it is logical that much longer Victorian period includes even more variety.

REFERENCES: https://www.wwnorton.com/college/english/nael/victorian/review/summary.htm