The Year That Shaped the Victorian Age: Lives, Loves and Letters of 1845

by Michael Wheeler

"The challenges facing England in the crucible of 1845 included the poor law; a failed harvest and Irish potato blight; John Henry Newman's conversion to Rome; and railway expansion, in the context of which frequent accidents endangered lives and 'railway mania' led to the ruin of many small investors. The nation's response to these challenges shaped the Victorian age. A communication revolution, effected both by the growth of the railway network and by the use of the uniform penny post, only served to intensify an atmosphere of far-reaching social and political change. Through their letters, Michael Wheeler takes us behind the scenes as the leading figures of the day play out their roles on the national stage. For both scholars and general readers, this book gives lively, accessible and original insights into the history, politics, religion and literature of an age at once close to and distant from us"--

Unknown Binding

Published October 1, 2022