Late Victorian Era

Home > History by Chronology > Victorian era > Late Victorian Era

Refers to the period from 1880-1901, characterized by a more conservative culture and the rise of imperialism. This era was marked by innovations in science and technology, as well as social and political reform movements.

Social class: Understanding the complex hierarchy of the Victorian era, including the aristocracy, middle class, and working class.
Gender roles: Examining the strict gender roles and expectations placed upon men and women during this time period.
Industrialization: Analyzing the impact of the Industrial Revolution on society, including changes in work, technology, and urbanization.
Colonialism and imperialism: The expansion of British rule and colonization of other countries, including India, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Art and literature: The development of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, realism, and the emergence of influential authors such as Charles Dickens and Oscar Wilde.
Science and medicine: The advancements in science and medicine during the late Victorian era, including the discovery of electricity and the development of new surgical techniques.
Politics and government: Understanding the political and economic state of Britain during this time period, including changes in the government, parliament, and the economy.
Religion: The role of religion in Victorian society, including the Church of England, religious dissent, and the impact of the Victorian crisis of faith.
Fashion and lifestyle: The evolution of fashion, entertainment, and leisure activities in the upper classes and middle class.
Education and social reform: The push for education reform and improvement of social conditions, including the growth of trade unions, women's suffrage, and temperance movements.
Gothic Revival: This style was characterized by a revival of medieval architecture and design elements, often featuring pointed arches, elaborate tracery, and intricate carvings.
Orientalism: Inspired by the exotic designs and cultures of the East, this style featured ornate patterns, bright colors, and intricate details.
Arts and Crafts Movement: Began as a reaction against industrialization and mass production, this style emphasized traditional craftsmanship, simplicity, and natural materials.
Aesthetic Movement: A style that emphasized beauty and art for its own sake, often incorporating elements of Japanese design and featuring bright colors, organic forms, and intricate patterns.
Queen Anne Style: A popular residential style characterized by steeply pitched roofs, asymmetrical facades, and elaborate decorative features, such as gingerbread trim and stained-glass windows.
Neoclassical: This style drew its inspiration from ancient Greece and Rome, featuring clean lines, classical columns, and decorative motifs such as garlands and urns.
Second Empire: This style originated in France and featured mansard roofs, ornate details, and large windows.
Art Nouveau: A style that emphasized organic forms, flowing lines, and natural motifs such as flowers, vines, and leaves.
Edwardian: This style emerged towards the end of Victoria's reign and was characterized by a more restrained and elegant aesthetic, inspired by the simpler styles of the 18th century.