16.3 Themes and narrative techniques in Victorian novels

Victorian novels tackle social issues, gender roles, and moral dilemmas through rich narratives. Dickens and the Brontës use techniques like multiple narrators, symbolism, and atmospheric settings to explore these themes and critique 19th-century English society.

Their works employ non-linear storytelling, frame narratives, and vivid imagery to create complex characters and plots. Urban-rural contrasts, Gothic elements, and symbolic settings further enhance the exploration of class, industrialization, and individual growth in Victorian fiction.

Common themes in Victorian novels

Social and economic issues

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• Social class structure highlighted rigid hierarchies in 19th-century England led to challenges in social mobility and tensions between classes
• Impact of industrialization addressed urbanization, poverty, and changing nature of work
• Family dynamics and inheritance explored broader social issues and wealth's impact on relationships (Wuthering Heights)
• Tension between tradition and progress reflected rapid social and technological changes of Victorian era

Gender and morality

• Gender roles examined limited opportunities for women and constraints of patriarchal society
• Morality and ethical dilemmas reflected emphasis on Christian values and conflict between individual desires and societal expectations
• Identity and self-discovery explored through bildungsroman narratives following character growth (Jane Eyre, Great Expectations)

Narrative techniques in Victorian fiction

Narrative perspectives

• Multiple narrators provided diverse perspectives on events and characters challenged single authoritative voice (Wilkie Collins' The Moonstone)
• Omniscient narrator allowed author commentary on characters and society while maintaining narrative distance
• Unreliable narrators created ambiguity and challenged readers' perceptions of truth and reality

Structural techniques

• Non-linear storytelling used flashbacks and parallel narratives to create complex plot structures
• Epistolary elements incorporated letters and diary entries provided intimate character insights (Dracula)
• Frame narratives created layers of storytelling added credibility to supernatural or extraordinary events
• Direct address to reader created intimacy and engaged audience in moral or philosophical discussions (Jane Eyre)

Symbolism and imagery in Victorian novels

Nature and environment

• Natural imagery like weather and landscapes reflected characters' emotional states and foreshadowed plot developments
• Animal imagery commented on human nature and social behaviors drew parallels between natural world and human society
• Color symbolism associated specific colors with particular emotions, themes, or character traits (red in Jane Eyre)

Social and psychological symbolism

• Class-related symbolism conveyed characters' status and aspirations through clothing and material possessions
• Houses and domestic spaces represented characters' psychological states and social positions (Thornfield Hall in Jane Eyre)
• Religious imagery and biblical allusions explored themes of morality, redemption, and spiritual conflict
• Gothic elements created atmosphere and explored themes of the uncanny, repression, and societal fears (Wuthering Heights)

Setting and atmosphere in Victorian fiction

Urban and rural contrasts

• Rural vs urban settings explored themes of industrialization, social change, and loss of traditional lifestyles
• Detailed domestic interiors reflected characters' social status, personalities, and broader themes
• Urban settings, particularly London, used fog and darkness to create atmosphere of mystery and moral ambiguity (Dickens' Bleak House)

Symbolic and atmospheric settings

• Gothic settings like ancient mansions and remote landscapes created mystery, danger, and psychological tension
• Exotic or colonial settings explored themes of imperialism, cultural conflict, and British Empire expansion
• Public vs private spaces highlighted contrast between societal expectations and individual desires or secrets
• Seasonal changes and passage of time mirrored character development and narrative progression