The Idler Magazine, Volume III, March 1893 / An Illustrated Monthly

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25083

Title

The Idler Magazine, Volume III, March 1893 / An Illustrated Monthly

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This 1893 issue of The Idler Magazine offers a glimpse behind the curtain of Victorian theatre and society. Featuring Henry Irving's rigorous rehearsals for 'Becket,' a whimsical tale of a mechanical dancing partner, and a spirited debate on whether childhood is a time of bliss or misery, the collection blends high drama with charming anecdotes and philosophical reflection.

Summary up to 500 words

The March 1893 issue of *The Idler Magazine* offers a multifaceted glimpse into Victorian culture, blending behind-the-scenes theatrical rigor with imaginative fiction and philosophical inquiry. G. B. Burgin's report on Lyceum rehearsals for Tennyson's *Becket* reveals Henry Irving as an indefatigable director who meticulously orchestrates every element, from the height of stage pages to the tempo of Gregorian chants. Irving is depicted not merely as an actor but as a demanding yet considerate teacher, ensuring that even the smallest details, such as the positioning of monks or the lighting of gas jets, serve the dramatic whole. His dedication extends to managing complex scenes, including the murder of Becket, where he personally tests safety measures and guides actors through emotional transitions with patience and precision. Interspersed with this serious artistic focus are lighter, satirical narratives. F. W. Robinson presents a humorous yet poignant story about a man who saves a drowning husband only to discover the husband's wife was unfaithful. The husband's decision to save his rival rather than his own wife stems from a fear that without the rival to stand between them, he might be forced to marry the unfaithful woman. This tale explores themes of trust, jealousy, and the complexities of human motivation. Similarly, Robinson's story of Nicholaus Geibel, a master mechanic in Furtwangen, satirizes social conventions through the invention of an electrically powered, clockwork dancing partner. Geibel creates this ideal partner to satisfy young women's complaints about clumsy male dancers, only to face the irony that his invention highlights the absurdity of societal expectations regarding male charm and conversation. The issue also features a significant essay by A. Adams Martin, titled "Is Childhood the Happiest or the Most Miserable Period of One's Existence?" Martin explores the dichotomy of youth, arguing that while children are free from adult responsibilities and financial struggles, they often suffer from "galling despotism" at home and school. He notes that children face terrifying nightmares and the crushing influence of adults who stifle their intellect. Martin concludes that childhood happiness depends heavily on parental guidance and a child's sensitivity; while an ideal childhood is happy, the reality for many involves significant sorrow and terror. Together, these pieces provide a substantial overview of the era's cultural anxieties, artistic fascinations, and philosophical debates regarding human nature and development.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Periodicals
• London