Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Robert Browning

by Martin Garrett

"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways." Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Robert Browning captures the remarkable love story of the renowned poets behind these famous words, from their dramatic elopement in 1846 to Elizabeth's tragic death in 1861. Their romance began with a letter from
Robert admiring Elizabeth's highly acclaimed book, Poems . When her father disapproved, they married in secret and boldly moved to Florence, Italy. Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Robert Browning describes how their love and lives flourished there, producing one son, writing some of their most
renowned works, and maintaining friendships with some of the most prominent literati of their time, including John Ruskin, Alfred, Lord Tennyson, and William Makepeace Thackeray.

Genres: Biography, Biography Memoir

128 pages, Hardcover

First published September 2, 2000

Reviews

[Linniegayl · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book is targeted for children (perhaps middle school) I found it an informative and enjoyable read, and never felt as if it was beneath me. There are numerous illustrations (photos of the Brownings, original letters written by them, pictures of their homes, etc.) that help flesh out the text. There are also many quotes from their various poems. I would give this a B/B+ so four stars here.

[Deyanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book by The British Library was perfect for my wants. It provided me with the background I desired sparked by reading Michael Wilcox's book Sunset. I had forgotten many of the poems of both poets. I wanted to be refreshed and learn more. I liked the divisions in the book moving from chapters on each of their early lives to their courtship, marriage, Paris and London, Aurora Leigh thru Italy and death. I learned details that I didn't know...most interesting. The book was concise and included pictures and original manuscripts, etc. In one hundred and twenty-two pages I felt I came away with a clear overview of their lives and accomplishments. I savored Elizabeth's last words to Robert, "Our lives are held by God!" Nice read.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very cute look at the Brownings' lives, aimed towards children, with beautiful copies of their letters, portraits, and other neat little things.

[Catherine Corman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Browning is very mobile...and his wife is still and contemplative. Love, evidently, has saved her life.

-Sophia Hawthorne (Nathaniel Hawthorne’s wife)