What were some of the main characteristics of Victorian literature?
1. Realism and Naturalism: Victorian literature emphasized realism and often focused on ordinary people and commonplace situations, as well as incorporating naturalistic themes and settings.
2. Social Criticism: Many Victorian writers, such as Charles Dickens, used their writing as a vehicle for social criticism and commentary on issues such as poverty, class inequality, and the struggles of the working class.
3. Morality: Victorian literature often had strong moral messages, with characters grappling with issues of right and wrong, and occasionally using religious or philosophical themes.
4. Romanticism: Despite its emphasis on realism, Victorian literature also drew heavily from romantic literature of the earlier period, with a focus on emotion and sentimentality.
5. Idealization of Women: Victorian literature frequently presented an idealized view of women as moral, virtuous, and self-sacrificing, often in contrast to male characters who were portrayed as flawed or immoral.
6. Gothic Elements: Victorian literature often incorporated gothic and supernatural elements, such as haunted houses, ghosts, and mysterious events.
7. Satire and Humor: Many Victorian writers used satire and humor to critique society and its values, often poking fun at the absurdities and contradictions of everyday life.