list of british victorian novels

The Victorian novels in the list tend to have elaborate descriptions. They paint a vivid picture of the era, whether it's the cityscapes in London as in 'Our Mutual Friend' or the rural settings like in 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles'. The moral and ethical values of the time are also a big part of these novels. Characters are often judged based on their adherence to the Victorian moral code. And many of them have a strong sense of narrative structure, with a clear beginning, middle and end, which helps to engage the readers.

One from the list is 'Middlemarch' by George Eliot. This novel is known for its complex characters and in - depth exploration of provincial life in the Victorian era. It delves into the relationships, dreams, and disappointments of the people in a small town. Another good one is 'Oliver Twist' by Charles Dickens, which exposes the harsh reality of the workhouse and the life of the poor in Victorian society.

Some of the best British Victorian novels include 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen. It's a classic that explores themes of love, marriage, and social class in a witty and engaging way. Another is 'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens, which follows the life of Pip and his journey through different social strata, filled with vivid characters and moral lessons.

They often feature gloomy settings like old mansions or fog - covered graveyards. The ghosts in these stories are typically associated with some unresolved past event or moral transgression. For example, in many stories, a wronged spirit haunts a place until justice is somehow served.

Some well - known Victorian detective novels include 'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins. It is often considered one of the first detective novels in the English language. Another is the Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle. Holmes, with his brilliant deductive reasoning, became an iconic detective figure. 'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins is also a great example. It has a complex plot full of mystery and intrigue.

Victorian literature was generally quite conservative and did not openly produce what we would consider 'erotic novels' in the modern sense. However, works like 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde had some elements that were considered scandalous at the time. But it's important to note that this was not a pure 'erotic novel'.

Among the list of all Victorian novels, 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker is highly influential. It has had a huge impact on the horror genre. It introduced the iconic character of Dracula and many of the tropes associated with vampires. 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' by Lewis Carroll is also influential. Its surreal and imaginative world has inspired countless works in literature, art, and film.

The use of complex characters was another feature. Characters were often multi - dimensional. In 'Wuthering Heights', Heathcliff is not simply a villain but a complex figure shaped by his experiences of love, rejection, and social inequality. Victorian novels in general had a rich tapestry of characters that added depth to the stories.

Begin with a novel that interests you thematically. For example, if you're interested in social issues, 'Oliver Twist' would be a good start. Read some reviews or summaries online to get a general idea of the plot and characters before you start. Another way is to start with an author you've heard of, like Dickens. His works are full of vivid descriptions and engaging stories that can draw you into the Victorian era.

One of the most well - known Victorian novels with a strong sense of romance is 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë. It tells the story of a young governess, Jane, and her complex relationship with Mr. Rochester. Their love story is filled with passion, challenges, and a deep emotional connection. Another is 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen, which although written a bit earlier than the height of the Victorian era, still had a great influence. The relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy is a classic example of a slow - burning, yet intense romance, with misunderstandings and character growth along the way.