Robert Browning (1812-1889) was a distinguished English poet and playwright, renowned for his mastery of dramatic monologue and psychological depth, significantly influencing Victorian literature.
Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Browning |
| Birth Date | 7 May 1812 |
| Death Date | 12 December 1889 |
| Nationality | English |
| Profession | Poet, Playwright |
| Notable Works |
|
| Spouse | Elizabeth Barrett (m. 1846) |
| Literary Style | Dramatic monologues, irony, characterization, dark humour, social commentary, historical settings, challenging vocabulary and syntax |
| Legacy |
By his death in 1889, Browning was seen as a sage and philosopher-poet who had influenced Victorian social and political discourse. Societies dedicated to studying his work survived in Britain and the US into the 20th century. |
Early Life
Robert Browning, born on May 7, 1812, in Camberwell, a suburb of London, was raised in a literary and artistic household. His father, Robert Browning Sr., was a well-read man with an extensive library, which significantly influenced young Browning’s intellectual development. His mother, Sarah Anna Wiedemann Browning, was a devoutly religious woman and an accomplished pianist. Growing up, Browning was exposed to a rich cultural environment that nurtured his early interest in poetry and the arts. As he matured, he moved to various locations, including Italy, which deeply impacted his poetic works and themes.
Family
| Name | Relation | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Robert Browning | Father | Robert Browning Sr. was a clerk for the Bank of England, an artist, and a scholar. He encouraged his son’s interest in literature and the arts. |
| Sarah Anna Wiedemann | Mother | Sarah Anna Wiedemann Browning was a devoutly religious and talented musician. She provided a nurturing and cultured environment for her children. |
| Sarianna Browning | Sister | Sarianna Browning was Robert Browning’s only sibling. She was very close to her brother and supported him throughout his life, especially after the death of his wife, Elizabeth Barrett Browning. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Unknown |
| Weight | Unknown |
| Chest Size | Unknown |
| Waist Size | Unknown |
| Hip Size | Unknown |
| Shoe Size | Unknown |
| Eye Color | Unknown |
| Hair Color | Unknown |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Robert Browning was married to Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
Details about Elizabeth Barrett Browning: Elizabeth Barrett Browning was a renowned English poet of the Victorian era. She was born on March 6, 1806, and is best known for her collection “Sonnets from the Portuguese” and her long-form poem “Aurora Leigh”. Elizabeth’s work was highly regarded during her lifetime, and she remains a significant figure in English literature.
There are no widely documented previous relationships of Robert Browning before his marriage to Elizabeth Barrett Browning.
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Robert Browning (1812-1889) was a renowned English poet and playwright, known for his mastery of dramatic monologue and psychological portraiture. He became famous for his innovative use of language and his deep exploration of the human psyche.
How He Became Famous
Browning’s fame grew significantly after the publication of his work “Men and Women” in 1855, which included some of his most famous dramatic monologues. His reputation was further cemented with the publication of “The Ring and the Book” in 1868-1869, a narrative poem that showcased his skill in creating complex characters and intricate plots.
How The Career Started
Robert Browning’s career began with the publication of “Pauline: A Fragment of a Confession” in 1833, which received little attention. His next major work, “Paracelsus” (1835), was more successful and established him as a promising young poet. Over the years, Browning produced numerous works that contributed to his literary stature.
Popular Works
- Pauline: A Fragment of a Confession (1833)
- Paracelsus (1835)
- Sordello (1840)
- Men and Women (1855)
- Dramatis Personae (1864)
- The Ring and the Book (1868-1869)
Robert Browning achieved great acclaim during his lifetime and remains a significant figure in English literature. His contributions to the development of the dramatic monologue and his exploration of psychological themes have left a lasting impact on poetry and literary criticism.
Awards
While formal literary awards were not as prevalent during Browning’s time as they are today, he was highly respected and honored by his contemporaries. He received widespread recognition and admiration from both literary critics and the public.
Robert Browning’s career was not without controversies. Some of his early works, such as “Sordello” (1840), were criticized for their complexity and obscurity. Additionally, his marriage to fellow poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning was initially met with disapproval from her family, though it later became one of the most celebrated literary unions of the 19th century.
Notable Controversies
- Sordello: The difficulty and obscure nature of this poem led to significant criticism and puzzled many readers and critics.
- Marriage to Elizabeth Barrett: Elizabeth’s father strongly disapproved of their marriage, leading to a strained family relationship.
Despite these controversies, Robert Browning’s legacy as a pioneering and influential poet endures, and his works continue to be studied and admired for their depth and innovation.
Faq
Who was Robert Browning?
Robert Browning (1812-1889) was a renowned English poet and playwright, known for his mastery of dramatic monologue and psychological portraiture. He is considered one of the foremost Victorian poets.
What are some of Robert Browning’s most famous works?
Some of Robert Browning’s most famous works include “The Pied Piper of Hamelin,” “My Last Duchess,” “Porphyria’s Lover,” and the long narrative poem “The Ring and the Book.”
What themes did Robert Browning explore in his poetry?
Robert Browning’s poetry often explored themes such as love, morality, history, and the human psyche. His works frequently delved into complex human emotions and psychological states.
Was Robert Browning married?
Yes, Robert Browning was married to the poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Their marriage is famous for being both a romantic and intellectual partnership. The couple moved to Italy, where they spent most of their married life.
Where can I find Robert Browning’s poetry?
Robert Browning’s poetry can be found in various anthologies of Victorian poetry, as well as in dedicated collections of his works. Many of his poems are also available online through literary websites and digital libraries.
