Elizabeth Barrett Browning is one of the most celebrated poets of the Victorian era, known for her intense passion, intellectual curiosity, and poetic genius. Born on March 6, 1806, in Coxhoe Hall, Durham, England, Elizabeth was the eldest of twelve children to Edward Barrett Moulton and Mary Graham Clarke Moulton. Her life was marked by illness, solitude, and a deep love for literature, which would eventually shape her into one of the greatest poets of all time.
Early Life and Education
Elizabeth’s childhood was marked by poor health, which led her parents to educate her at home. Despite her physical limitations, Elizabeth’s parents encouraged her love of literature, providing her with an extensive library that included works by William Shakespeare, John Milton, and Alexander Pope. Elizabeth’s early education was largely self-directed, with her mother serving as her primary teacher.
As she grew older, Elizabeth’s health began to decline further, forcing her to rely on her siblings for assistance. Despite these challenges, Elizabeth continued to write poetry, even publishing her first collection, “The Battle of Marathon,” in 1826. However, it was not until 1838 that she began signing her poems with her own name, marking the beginning of her remarkable literary career.
Meeting Robert Browning
In 1845, Elizabeth Barrett met the poet Robert Browning, who would become her husband and literary partner. The two began a romantic correspondence, exchanging letters and poems that showcased their intellectual and emotional connection. Despite their deep love for each other, the couple faced numerous challenges, including Elizabeth’s poor health and Robert’s status as a prominent poet.
On September 12, 1846, Elizabeth and Robert eloped, marrying in a small ceremony at Marylebone Church in London. The couple then settled in Florence, Italy, where they lived a happy and fulfilling life together. Florence provided Elizabeth with the perfect environment to focus on her writing, and she began to produce some of her most famous works.
Literary Masterpieces
During her time in Florence, Elizabeth wrote some of her most celebrated works, including “Sonnets from the Portuguese” and “Aurora Leigh.” These poems showcased her mastery of form, language, and emotional depth, cementing her reputation as one of the greatest poets of her time.
Sonnets from the Portuguese
“Sonnets from the Portuguese” is a collection of 44 sonnets that celebrate the love between Elizabeth and Robert Browning. The poems are renowned for their beauty, sensuality, and depth, and are considered some of the greatest sonnets in the English language. The collection was published in 1850 and received widespread acclaim, solidifying Elizabeth’s reputation as a poet of exceptional talent.
Aurora Leigh
“Aurora Leigh” is an epic poem that tells the story of a young poet struggling to find her place in the world. The poem is a scathing critique of Victorian society and the limitations imposed on women, and was published in 1856 to great acclaim. “Aurora Leigh” is considered one of Elizabeth’s masterpieces, showcasing her ability to tackle complex themes and emotions with ease.
Other Notable Works
In addition to “Sonnets from the Portuguese” and “Aurora Leigh,” Elizabeth wrote numerous other collections of poetry, including “Prometheus Bound” (1833), “The Seraphim” (1837), and “Poems Before Congress” (1860). Her poetry covers a wide range of themes, including love, nature, politics, and social justice, showcasing her intellectual curiosity and passion for life.
Legacy and Impact
Elizabeth Barrett Browning died on June 29, 1861, in Florence, Italy, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable poetry and a profound impact on literature. Her works continue to inspire readers and writers to this day, and her poetry remains a testament to the power of love, creativity, and the human spirit.
Influence on Other Poets
Elizabeth’s poetry had a profound impact on numerous other poets, including Christina Rossetti, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and Emily Dickinson. Her use of innovative forms, language, and imagery inspired a generation of poets to experiment with their own styles and themes.
Personal Life and Marriage
Elizabeth’s marriage to Robert Browning was a deeply romantic and fulfilling partnership. The couple shared a deep love of literature and a strong intellectual connection, which fostered a creative and supportive environment. Despite their happy marriage, Elizabeth’s health continued to decline, forcing her to rely on Robert for assistance.
Death and Legacy
Elizabeth Barrett Browning died on June 29, 1861, at the age of 55, due to complications from her ill health. Her funeral was attended by numerous notable figures, including Robert Browning, who was devastated by her passing. Elizabeth’s legacy continues to inspire readers and writers to this day, and her poetry remains a testament to the power of love, creativity, and the human spirit.
Key Facts About Elizabeth Barrett Browning
- Born on March 6, 1806, in Coxhoe Hall, Durham, England
- Married Robert Browning in 1846
- Lived in Florence, Italy, from 1846-1861
- Published numerous collections of poetry, including “Sonnets from the Portuguese” and “Aurora Leigh”
- Known for her mastery of form, language, and emotional depth
- Celebrated for her contributions to literature and her impact on poetry
Elizabeth Barrett Browning was a poet of exceptional talent, whose passion for literature and life continues to inspire readers and writers to this day. Her remarkable poetry and legacy serve as a testament to the power of love, creativity, and the human spirit.
Through her poetry, Elizabeth Barrett Browning left an indelible mark on literature, challenging the societal norms and conventions of her time. Her work continues to resonate with readers today, offering a glimpse into the life and experiences of a woman who lived with passion, conviction, and creativity.
As we reflect on Elizabeth’s life and works, we are reminded of the importance of pursuing our passions, embracing our individuality, and speaking our truth. Her poetry is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love, creativity, and self-expression.
In the words of Elizabeth Barrett Browning herself, “The world stays, but its aptness dies, / And I stay, but my want stays.” May her poetry continue to inspire us to stay true to ourselves, to pursue our dreams, and to never lose sight of the beauty and wonder of the world around us.
Final Thoughts
As we close this exploration of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s life and works, we are left with a deeper appreciation for the power of poetry to capture the human experience. We are reminded of the importance of embracing our individuality, pursuing our passions, and speaking our truth.
Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s legacy continues to inspire us today, offering a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love, creativity, and self-expression. May her poetry continue to inspire generations to come, and may we always remember the importance of staying true to ourselves.