Introduction to the Victorian age

Victorian age (1832-1901)

- In 1832, the novelist Sir Walter Scott died.

- Queen Victoria ruled from 1837- 1901. 

- this age is considered to be a transition time between the romantic age and 20th century

Romantic vs Victorian era

	Romantic Era	Victorian Era
Idealism	Visionary/Utopian	Sober/Utilitarian
View of Nature	Kind/Harmonious	Harsh/Cruel
Focus	Inward/Individual Common man Imagination Introspection	Outward/Nation Middle class Reality Work
Philosophy	Transcendentalism	Utilitarianism

four major points at this era:

1/ Science vs religion

2/ the industrial revolution

3/ the women question

4/ British imperialism

Victorian Age:

1- early Victorian 1832-1848

2- mid Victorian 48- 70

3- late Victorian 70- 1901

Early Victorian ( time of troubles)

when Victoria became a queen, there were many problems such as:

1/ people of working class were severely punished if they wanted to join the trade union

2/ the corn laws kept the price of bread high

3/ chariest movement wanted votes for all and social reforms

Mid Victorian:

a time of economic prosperity and at the same time spread of poverty 

- population increased from 2 m. to 6.5 m. (more cities)
- London becomes the most financial capital in the world
- the great Exhibition at Crystal Palace (high worldwide success)
- a great empire (the colonies became a market for the British products), it called according to this point as "imperialist age"

late Victorian:

a time of serenity, calmness and a great deal of doubt.

click here to download the power point