An indispensable resource for readers investigating Victorian literature and culture, this book offers a comprehensive summary of the historical, social, political, and cultural contexts of Victorian England.

• Includes an introduction on background information about the Victorian era

• Presents a timeline of information about the period and context for the literary works discussed

• Explores the historical background of the literary works

• Excerpts primary source documents to give readers first-hand accounts of the issues addressed in the texts