The Angel in the House by Coventry Patmore
The Angel in the House is a poem written by Coventry Patmore and first published in 1854. The poem is about an idealized view of a married woman and her perfect love for her husband. The poem is divided into eight parts and is considered to be one of the most influential works of Victorian literature. It has had a significant impact on both literature and gender roles in the 19th century.
Plot
The poem tells the story of a married woman who is seen as an idealized view of femininity and love. She is described as an angel and is devoted to her husband, who is seen as her master. The poem begins with the woman’s acceptance of her husband’s authority and love. She is then described as being obedient to her husband and a model of Victorian femininity. The poem then goes on to describe her devotion to her husband and her perfect love for him.
The poem then moves on to the second part, which is about the woman’s death. In this part, the woman is seen as an angel who has gone to Heaven, and her husband is left behind to mourn her loss. The poem ends with the husband’s mourning and his realization that his wife was an angel in his life.
Teachings
The poem is seen as being an expression of the Victorian ideal of married life. It is seen as teaching that a woman should submit to her husband and be obedient to him. It is also seen as teaching that a woman should be devoted to her husband and have perfect love for him. The poem also teaches that a woman should be a model of Victorian femininity and that her death should be mourned by her husband.
Interesting Facts
- The poem was written in response to an article published by feminist writer Harriet Martineau. Martineau’s article criticized the way in which women were portrayed in literature, and Patmore wrote The Angel in the House as a response to this criticism.
- The poem has had a significant influence on both literature and gender roles. It has been seen as an expression of the Victorian ideal of married life and has had an influence on the way women are portrayed in literature.
- The poem has been adapted into plays, novels, and films. The poem has been adapted into plays such as The Angel in the House, a musical adaptation, and the novel The Angel in the House, written by Wilkie Collins.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who wrote The Angel in the House?
The Angel in the House was written by Coventry Patmore and first published in 1854. - What is the poem about?
The poem is about an idealized view of a married woman and her perfect love for her husband. - What are the teachings of The Angel in the House?
The poem is seen as teaching that a woman should submit to her husband and be obedient to him. It is also seen as teaching that a woman should be devoted to her husband and have perfect love for him. The poem also teaches that a woman should be a model of Victorian femininity and that her death should be mourned by her husband. - Has The Angel in the House been adapted into other forms of art?
The poem has been adapted into plays such as The Angel in the House, a musical adaptation, and the novel The Angel in the House, written by Wilkie Collins.