The Victorian Era: A Time of a Change

An Age of Transformation and Growth

Queen Victoria's accession to the British throne on June 20th, 1837, at the tender age of 18 years old ushered in what is considered to be one of the most influential and dynamic periods in British History. Her reign of over sixty years shaped an entire generation and an era of great change, reform, and expansion of the British Empire.

There were many contrasts between those who lived during this time. On one hand the upper-class lived in luxury, dressed elegantly, resided in large country estates and had the means to enjoy their lives to the fullest. On the other hand the working-class endured long hours of grueling work and unsanitary working conditions in factories that were being rapidly industrialized using steam power, telegraphy and new machinery which revolutionized industry and allowed for people and goods to be transported much faster than they ever had before. However, this rapid progress did little to alleviate the social inequality that existed within British society.

During this time, the social norms of British society were characterized by strict etiquette and moral codes and there was a very defined class structure. For example, the upper-class members of society went to grand parties and ballrooms and wore fine clothes; whereas, the lower-class members of society lived in crowded cities and fought to make ends meet. However, these changes did help bring about the beginnings of positive change in society. More children were going to school, more people were becoming literate, and there were movements to abolish child labor and allow women to have the right to vote; all of which laid the groundwork for the modern-day Britain we know today.

The Victorian Era was also a golden-age for literature and the arts. Many writers such as Charles Dickens and the Bronte Sisters wrote novels that dealt with themes such as poverty, morality, and freedom. The advent of photography and architectural advancements also created new ways for artists to express themselves and create new forms of art. The support from Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert gave many artists and intellectuals the opportunity to flourish throughout Great Britain.

Many of the aspects of daily life during the Victorian Era were a combination of traditional customs and new inventions and technologies. Gas lamps lit streets, indoor plumbing made living conditions better, and railroads brought new opportunities to people everywhere. Clothing and fashion represented a person's social standing, and women wore corseted dresses and men wore tail-coated suits that were a reflection of their status in society.

In addition to the many cultural advancements during the Victorian Era, the Monarchy itself underwent a transformation as well. During the reigns of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert the Monarchy began to reflect the values of duty and responsibility. They supported education, charitable causes and the advancement of the arts.

As one looks back on the Victorian Era, it is easy to see how it has left its mark on the world. Its legacy can be seen in the creative innovations that took place, the progressive reforms that helped to shape the course of history and the ideals that continue to inspire humanity today. This was truly a remarkable time in history and will always be remembered as an age of elegance, inventiveness, and continued pursuit of human progress.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Victoria Adelaide Mary Louise
• Born: 24 May 1819
• Reign: 1837–1901
• Spouse: Prince Albert
• Legacy: British Empire, Victorian values, arts patronage

Keywords

• Victorian Era
• Revolutionized industry
• Queen Victoria
• Abolish child labor
• British monarchy
• Victorian history
• Charles Dickens
• Prince Albert
• Bronte Sisters