The nineteenth century in England saw the blossoming of the novel as an art form. In this reading and writing intensive class we will study several prime examples of the genre. The novels we will read reflect Victorian customs and beliefs regarding social class, marriage, religion, politics, science, and gender roles, during a time of unprecedented change. We’ll consider the ideas presented in these works in view of their historical contexts, with a particular emphasis on the novel as social critique and agent for change.
