The Brownings Their Life and Art   By: Lilian Whiting (1847-1942)

Lilian Whiting's comprehensive biography, The Brownings Their Life and Art, is a rich and insightful exploration of the lives and artistic contributions of one of the most influential literary couples in history, Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning.

Whiting showcases her exceptional research skills and meticulous attention to detail throughout the book. She takes the reader on a chronological journey, starting with the upbringing and early lives of the Brownings, delving into their literary aspirations, personal struggles, and eventual union. By unearthing an impressive array of primary sources, including letters, diaries, and personal testimonies, Whiting paints a vivid picture of both Robert and Elizabeth as individuals, as well as their dynamic as a couple.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Whiting's ability to capture the essence of each Brownings' artistic endeavors. She examines in-depth their poetry and prose, providing analysis and contextualizing their works within the broader socio-political climate of their time. Whiting expertly navigates through the various poetic phases in both Robert and Elizabeth's careers, shedding light on the key themes, revolutionary techniques, and the enduring impact of their respective oeuvres.

Furthermore, Whiting does not shy away from delving into the personal lives of the Brownings. She explores the challenges they faced due to societal expectations, family conflicts, and health issues. Their eventual elopement and relocation to Italy are depicted as pivotal moments that allowed the couple to fully embrace their creative passions and flourish as artists within a supportive environment.

While Whiting's writing style tends to be slightly formal and occasionally overly descriptive, her passion for her subjects never wavers. She successfully captures the devotion and love shared between Robert and Elizabeth, emphasizing their unwavering support for one another's artistic endeavors. Through their letters and personal anecdotes, their relationship is brought to life on the pages of this biography.

The only minor flaw in Whiting's work is her tendency to occasionally digress into detailed descriptions of secondary figures in the Brownings' lives, occasionally deviating from the central focus of the couple. Nevertheless, these tangential explorations provide valuable insights into the couple's wider social circle and intellectual milieu.

Overall, The Brownings Their Life and Art is a splendid work that sheds light on the profound impact of Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning's relationship on both the literary world and their personal lives. Whiting's meticulous research and passionate prose make this biography an essential read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of these celebrated Victorian poets.

First Page:

The present volume was initiated in Florence, and, from its first inception, invested with the cordial assent and the sympathetic encouragement of Robert Barrett Browning. One never to be forgotten day, all ethereal light and loveliness, has left its picture in memory, when, in company with Mr. Browning and his life long friend, the Marchesa Peruzzi di' Medici ( náta Story), the writer of this biography strolled with them under the host's orange trees and among the riotous roses of his Florentine villa, "La Torre All' Antella," listening to their sparkling conversation, replete with fascinating reminiscences... Continue reading book >>