Elizabeth Barrett

by Margaret Forster

Book Overview

A biography of Elizabeth Barrett Browning which draws a portrait of Victorian family life and gives an alternative view of the poet, suggesting a woman of strong and determined character. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0385249594
• ISBN13: 9780385249591
• Release Date: January 1989
• Publisher: Doubleday Books
• Length: 400 Pages
• Weight: 1.75 lbs.

Customer Reviews

The Life of Elizabeth Barrett Browning with new information

This is a thoroughly researched book, using new-found information, on the life of this enigmatic poet. She really was a remarkable woman, particularly in that time period; as was her equally remarkable husband, Robert Browning. The new information reveals a woman who shows unexpected strength, both physically and emotionally, that was completely antithetical to her adulthood at home, pre-marriage, as an invalid. Her father, also, emerges as more three-dimensional than the movie version and earlier books, depict him. Yes, he was a tyrant, but also capable of being charming and enjoying social events and family fun. All in all, if you want to know the real Mrs. Browning and her family, this is the book for you.

One great and memorable poem justifies a life - work

Reading through this volume I find it difficult to become deeply engaged. Something in the archaic, quaint language of much of the poetry deters. Yet there is a poem, the poem of all the anthologies that is a great and memorable one, one that justifies a life- work. " How do I love thee , Let me count the ways" is one of the most beautiful and inspiring love- poems ever written.

Some of the best love poetry ever written

Elizabeth Barrett Browning's poetry, especially the "Sonnets from the Portuguese," is beautiful, intelligent, and honest love poetry. Anyone who has experienced the doubts, fears, and transformation of love will recognize the truth of the poet's struggle to trust and to love.