Women In The Victorian Age
The lives of Victorian women: Roles, rights, and the rise of feminine voices
The Victorian Age was a period in which English people witnessed significant revolution in terms of social, economic and cultural. Unfortunately, I cannot say that it was a good revolution for women. Society sees women as “angels in the house” which indicates women are supposed to marry, carry children, take care of the household chores and satisfy their husbands. Women were not allowed to have property, or rights to sue or vote. They were not even allowed to have a proper education or tell their opinion. If they dare to have all these things or educate themselves they are labelled as "fallen" or "ruined”.
Despite the oppressive societal structures, the Victorian era also saw the emergence of female writers and thinkers who began to challenge the status quo. Authors like the Brontë sisters and George Eliot explored themes of female empowerment and autonomy in their works, contributing to the early feminist discourse. Also, we have poets like Christina Rosetti, Felicia Hemans, and Dora Greenwell. These women were not only brave artists of their area but also paved the way and became inspiration for new generation artists.
Sleeping at Last
Sleeping at last, the trouble and tumult over,
Sleeping at last, the struggle and horror past,
Cold and white, out of sight of friend and of lover,
Sleeping at last.
No more a tired heart downcast or overcast,
No more pangs that wring or shifting fears that hover,
Sleeping at last in a dreamless sleep locked fast.
Fast asleep. Singing birds in their leafy cover
Cannot wake her, nor shake her the gusty blast.
Under the purple thyme and the purple clover
Sleeping at last.
This poem is written by Christina Rosetti. She was another famous poet of this oppressive area. She reflects on how death is not a thing to be feared but sets an individual free from the horror and struggles of life. Rosetti and the poem's speaker are trying to assure the reader that death is rest beyond our comprehension, the best relief and escape from the cruel world. The world cannot touch us when we "fast sleep." This area was so oppressive and way too much dominated by men. So, women seek death to escape from the harsh reality of the world and from being baby dolls that are controlled by their owners.