Victoria (Penguin Monarchs): Queen, Matriarch, Empress

The Penguin Monarchs series offers concise and informative accounts of England's rulers, featuring Queen Victoria as the longest-reigning female monarch in history. Queen Victoria, who ascended to the throne at 18, ruled during a transformative period in UK history marked by industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military advancements and extensive imperial expansion. Jane Ridley, a Professor of Modern History at Buckingham University, presents a fresh and engaging portrait of the queen in this book, challenging the traditional portrayal of her as a dour old lady.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2018
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

The acclaimed Penguin Monarchs series presents concise and insightful narratives of England's rulers, now available in paperback format. Queen Victoria, upon assuming the throne at the age of 18, embarked on a remarkable reign that saw her become the longest-reigning female monarch in history. This remarkable period witnessed profound industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military transformations within the United Kingdom, as well as significant imperial expansion beyond its borders. Notably, in 1876, Queen Victoria was bestowed with the title of Empress of India, further solidifying her influence and status on a global scale.

In contrast to the traditional portrayal of the dour old lady, Jane Ridley offers a fresh and captivating portrayal of Queen Victoria in her book. Ridley, a Professor of Modern History at Buckingham University, is a renowned authority on royal biographies. Her previous works include "The Young Disraeli," a study of Edwin Lutyens, the Architect and his Wife, which received the prestigious 2003 Duff Cooper Prize. Additionally, her best-selling book "Bertie: A Life of Edward VII" has gained widespread acclaim and has established her as a leading authority on the history of the British monarchy.

Through her meticulous research and engaging writing style, Ridley delves into the life and reign of Queen Victoria, providing a comprehensive and nuanced account of her achievements and challenges. She explores the political, social, and cultural contexts of her era, shedding light on the significant events and personalities that shaped her reign. Queen Victoria's ascent to the throne and her remarkable longevity were not without their complexities, and Ridley adeptly navigates through these challenges, offering valuable insights into the woman behind the monarchy.

The Penguin Monarchs series, which includes Queen Victoria's biography, offers a valuable perspective on the history of England's rulers. By presenting concise and informative narratives, the series provides a convenient and accessible way for readers to gain a deeper understanding of the past. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student of royal history, or simply interested in learning more about the remarkable women who have shaped world history, this series is a must-read.

In conclusion, Queen Victoria's biography by Jane Ridley is a fresh and engaging portrayal of the longest-reigning female monarch in history. Through her meticulous research and captivating writing style, Ridley offers valuable insights into the life and reign of Queen Victoria, providing a comprehensive and nuanced account of her achievements and challenges. The Penguin Monarchs series, which includes this biography, is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the history of England's rulers.

Weight: 108g
Dimension: 120 x 217 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141987316