Thinking activity: Tennyson and Browning

 Alfred Lord Tennyson: The Representative Literary Figure of the Victorian Era

The Victorian Era (1837–1901), marked by Queen Victoria's reign, was a time of great societal change, scientific advancements, and literary innovation. Alfred Lord Tennyson (1809–1892), the Poet Laureate of Britain for over four decades, perfectly embodies the spirit of this era. His poetry captures the conflicts, values, and emotions of the Victorian age, making him a quintessential representative literary figure.

Tennyson as a Poet of the Victorian Age

Tennyson's works reflect the central themes and concerns of Victorian society, including faith, doubt, love, loss, and the pursuit of progress. Below are the key reasons why he is considered the literary voice of the Victorian age:

1. Faith and Doubt

The Victorian era witnessed a crisis of faith due to scientific discoveries like Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. Tennyson grappled with these tensions in his poetry, most notably in In Memoriam A.H.H., where he explores grief, faith, and the possibility of life after death. His ability to articulate the emotional and intellectual struggles of the era resonated deeply with his audience.

2. Progress and Industrialization

The Victorian age was a time of rapid industrial growth, leading to both optimism about progress and concern about its dehumanizing effects. Tennyson’s Locksley Hall reflects this duality, as the speaker embraces the promise of progress while lamenting the personal and social costs of modernity.

3. Love and Loss

Victorian literature often centered on themes of love and loss, and Tennyson was no exception. His poems, such as Break, Break, Break and Tears, Idle Tears, beautifully capture the pain of losing loved ones and the bittersweet memories that follow.

4. Myth and Tradition

Tennyson often turned to classical mythology and Arthurian legends to explore contemporary issues. His Idylls of the King uses the story of King Arthur and the Round Table to examine themes of honor, betrayal, and the decline of idealism—issues that Victorian society also grappled with.

5. Rich Language and Imagery

Tennyson’s mastery of language and imagery helped him communicate complex emotions and ideas. His lyrical style and vivid descriptions brought his poetry to life, making it accessible and appealing to a wide audience.

A Poem by Robert Browning: My Last Duchess

While Tennyson represents the broader Victorian spirit, Robert Browning (1812–1889) offers a more psychological and dramatic perspective. One of his most famous poems, My Last Duchess, showcases his unique talent for exploring human nature and moral complexity.

Summary of My Last Duchess

The poem is a dramatic monologue in which the Duke of Ferrara speaks to an emissary about a portrait of his late wife. As the Duke reveals details about the Duchess's life and behavior, his words expose his controlling and jealous nature. He admits, albeit indirectly, that he had her killed because she did not conform to his expectations.

Thematic Concerns in My Last Duchess

1. Power and Control

The Duke’s character represents the corrupting influence of absolute power. His desire to control the Duchess extends beyond her actions to how she is remembered. By keeping her portrait behind a curtain, he ensures that only he decides who sees her.

2. Jealousy and Pride

The Duke's pride is wounded by the Duchess's friendly demeanor and her appreciation of simple joys. His jealousy leads him to view her kindness as a flaw, ultimately driving him to have her eliminated.

3. Objectification of Women

The poem critiques the way women were often treated as possessions during the Victorian era. The Duchess is portrayed as an object in life and death, valued only for how she reflects on the Duke's status.

4. Art and Aesthetics

The Duke’s appreciation for art contrasts with his lack of empathy, highlighting the tension between aesthetic beauty and moral ugliness. The portrait, a beautiful representation of the Duchess, becomes a symbol of his twisted love and control.

5. Irony and Psychological Depth

Browning masterfully uses irony to reveal the Duke's true nature. While the Duke tries to present himself as cultured and dignified, his monologue exposes his cruelty and vanity. The psychological complexity of the Duke makes the poem a profound study of human character.

Comparing Tennyson and Browning

While Tennyson and Browning were contemporaries, their poetic styles and themes differ significantly:

Tennyson often focused on universal themes like faith, loss, and the human condition, using lyrical and descriptive language.

Browning, on the other hand, excelled in dramatic monologues that delved into the psychology of his characters, often highlighting their moral flaws.

Together, they represent two sides of Victorian poetry: Tennyson’s reflective and emotional style complements Browning’s analytical and dramatic approach.

Conclusion

Alfred Lord Tennyson’s poetry captures the essence of the Victorian era, addressing its intellectual, emotional, and social concerns with unmatched elegance. His works continue to resonate because they explore timeless themes with clarity and depth. On the other hand, Robert Browning’s My Last Duchess provides a darker, more psychological perspective on human nature, enriching our understanding of Victorian literature. Together, these poets exemplify the richness and diversity of the era’s literary achievements.