Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-1861) is one of the most famous and influential female poets of the Victorian era Her love poems—and particularly her famed Sonnets from the Portuguese, written in celebration of her marriage to Robert Browning—continue to enjoy immense popularity in the English-speaking world. Her works also explore a wide range of topics, from the social and political to the natural world, often from a feminist perspective.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning's body of work provides a timeless window into the richness and complexity of Victorian life and culture. Here are five of her most notable works:
1. Aurora Leigh (1856): This epic poem, written in blank verse, tells the story of Aurora, a young woman struggling for independence in the face of family and social pressures. Barrett Browning's feminist themes, set against a backdrop of a changing England, make this an influential work of literature to this day.
2. Sonnets from the Portuguese (1850): This collection of 44 sonnets is considered the pinnacle of Barrett Browning's love poetry. Written to express her devotion to her husband, Robert Browning, it is renowned for its exquisite language, intimate imagery, and bold expression of romantic love.
3. A Musical Instrument (1850): This sonnet was written shortly after her marriage and is dedicated to her husband. It is a passionate love poem that speaks of the soul’s music and the power of deep devotion.
4. The Cry of the Children (1843): Written in response to the deplorable conditions in English factories, this poem expresses anger, grief, and compassion for the plight of working children. Its lyricism and powerful imagery make it a timeless classic.
5. Sonnet XLIV (1850): This sonnet is a lyrical exploration of the joys and struggles of love. In this sonnet, Barrett Browning delves into the complexities of love and marriage, and the power of enduring commitment in the face of life’s difficulties.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning's works continue to offer readers glimpses into the richness and beauty of the Victorian era and remain relevant to readers looking for insight into love, life, and the human condition. Her poetry inspires readers to explore their inner world, to strive for independence, and to recognize the importance and strength of the human spirit.