Expert: Joseph Logue - 11/15/2004

Question
Where did the Victorian period take place and who was the monarch of this time period?

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

The Victorian period was 1837 - 1901, when Victoria was Queen of England, and Empress of India.  Many think that the era should be called "Albertine" as it is really the rectitude of Prince Albert, Victoria's husband, that set the tone of the time (they were married in 1840).  Even though he died in December of 1861, his memory was sacrosanct to Victoria and his wishes and way of life continued for the next 39 years and 1 month of her life.

As you mention the period, I'll assume you know what it entails (morality, family life, stability, etc.), and mention that it is mostly a British Empire or American period.  Even then, it means different things.  In America, we think of it as repressed and conformist, when social customs like nuclear families, marriage, and parenthood became idealized, if not sentimentalized.  In Britain and former members of the Empire, it means a period of expansion  and dominance, though the social aspects were present as well.  In India, it is emblematic of the Raj, a period of British rule in India.

The Victorian era "ended" with Victoria's death in January, 1901.  This gave rise to the Edwardian era, named for Victoria's son, who became King Edward VII.  Stuffiness was out, as if the new century brought new possibilites.

Hope this helps, Jennifer.  As always, your local library has a lot more information on the subject.  Ask a Reference Librarian for help.

Sincerely,

Joseph Logue