Italian Politics and Nineteenth-Century British Literature and Culture

This book explores how Britain invested in the seismic geopolitical realignment of Italian unification through literary works, journalism, parliamentary records, and pamphlets.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 200 pages
\n Publication date: 28 February 2021
\n Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
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This book delves into the intricate connections between literary works by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Mary Shelley, and Wilkie Collins, alongside journalism, parliamentary records, and pamphlets, to explore Britain's profound investment in the seismic geopolitical transformation of Italian unification.

The study examines how these literary, journalistic, and political elements converged to shape Britain's imaginative engagement with the historical events surrounding Italy's unification in the mid-nineteenth century. It explores the ways in which these writers and their works responded to the political, social, and cultural dynamics of the time, reflecting the broader concerns and aspirations of the British nation.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning, renowned for her poetic prowess and emotional depth, played a significant role in this literary exploration. Her poem "Aurora Leigh," in particular, delves into the complexities of love, ambition, and national identity, reflecting the tensions and aspirations of the British Empire at the time. Through her portrayal of the character Aurora Leigh, Browning explores the intersection of personal passion and the broader political forces shaping the world.

Mary Shelley, another prominent figure in the literary world, contributed to the examination of Italian unification through her novel "Frankenstein." Shelley's work explores the moral and ethical implications of scientific advancements and the power of human imagination. In "Frankenstein," she examines the consequences of playing God and the potential for unintended harm that comes with scientific experimentation.

Wilkie Collins, known for his gothic novels and social commentary, also contributed to the exploration of Italian unification. His novel "The Woman in White," for instance, delves into the themes of gender, power, and social hierarchy, reflecting the societal changes and challenges of the Victorian era. Through his portrayal of characters such as Laura Fairlie and Walter Hartright, Collins explores the complexities of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of justice in a society grappling with rapid change.

In addition to literary works, the study also examines the role of journalism and parliamentary records in shaping Britain's imaginative investment in Italian unification. Newspapers and periodicals played a crucial role in disseminating information and shaping public opinion about the events in Italy. Parliamentary records, on the other hand, provide valuable insights into the political debates and decision-making processes that influenced Britain's foreign policy towards Italy.

The study argues that Britain's imaginative investment in Italian unification was driven by a range of factors, including imperial ambitions, cultural fascination, and a desire to shape the course of European history. It explores how these factors intersected to create a complex and multifaceted narrative that resonated with British readers and audiences.

Furthermore, the study examines the impact of Italian unification on British society and culture. It explores how the events in Italy influenced the development of British literature, politics, and society, and how British writers and artists responded to the changes and challenges of the new Italian state.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersections among literary works, journalism, parliamentary records, and pamphlets in shaping Britain's imaginative investment in the seismic geopolitical realignment of Italian unification. It sheds light on the complex and multifaceted ways in which these elements converged to shape Britain's engagement with a significant historical event and provides valuable insights into the cultural, political, and historical dimensions of the mid-nineteenth century.

\n Weight: 316g\n
Dimension: 156 x 232 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781474447256\n \n