The Victorian Age.

Essay by iamgeniusJunior High, 9th gradeA+, February 2004

download word file, 2 pages 3.0

The Victorian Age is a period in British history during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century; her character and moral standards restored the prestige of the British monarchy. This era brought about great changes in all areas of everyday living. There were great political, religious, and social changes. By the beginning of the Victorian period, the Industrial Revolution, had created profound economic and social changes. There was a greater gap between the wealthy and the poor. There was also a mass migration of workers to urban areas, where they lived in slums. Christianity has always played an influential role in the English history, but during the Victorian age religion was questioned. Religion is not supported by any scientifically solid evidence. Therefore, in the Victorian age, of scientific enlightenment, the power of church was shaken by ideologies such as Darwinism, which provided a completely different view of human creation.

All these factors influenced the many writers of the time. The Victorian novel, with its emphasis on the realistic portrayal of social life, represented many Victorian issues. The main issues were evolution, industrialization, and "the women question". All of these issues and controversies informed the Victorian reader.

A Doll's House by Ibsen took place during the Victorian Age. The main issue Ibsen is objecting to in the play is the nature and role of women. In the Victorian age women were not treated as they are today. Many women were thought of as mere objects. They had no social status and were not allowed to express themselves freely. This is evident in the play. The Helmer's are a middle class family, so Nora doesn't have to work or take care of her kids completely by herself. Her role is her marriage is that of a doll. She...