The letters of Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Barrett, Vol. 1 (of 2) 1845-1846

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

16182

Title

The letters of Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Barrett, Vol. 1 (of 2) 1845-1846

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume presents the complete correspondence between Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning from January 1845 to March 1846, edited by Robert's daughter. The letters capture their evolving romance, intellectual exchange on poetry, and deep emotional intimacy. Written with characteristic wit, passion, and vulnerability, these texts offer an intimate glimpse into the lives of two literary giants before their marriage.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1900 by Robert Browning's son, R.B. Browning, this volume presents the complete correspondence between poet Robert Browning and Elizabeth Barrett Browning from January 1845 to March 1846. Preserved in an inlaid box after their deaths, these letters chronicle the transformation of their relationship from distant literary admiration to a profound, life-defining partnership. The collection begins with Browning's enthusiastic praise for Barrett's published poems, noting how her work had taken root within him rather than remaining a mere object of passive enjoyment. Initially separated by Barrett's severe illness and confinement at 50 Wimpole Street, the couple corresponded intensely, exchanging critiques on each other's works, such as Barrett's poem 'Luria,' and discussing literary theories. As their bond deepened, the tone shifted from polite admiration to tender devotion. Browning expressed a growing fear of losing her, vowing to grow old and die with her, while Barrett confessed that his presence transformed her life from a 'lampless dungeon' to a pinnacle of happiness. The letters reveal their shared intellectual interests, including discussions of Greek poets like Aeschylus and Dante, and their mutual support against critical attacks in the press. Barrett's correspondence often displays her characteristic wit and self-deprecating humor, while Browning's writing reflects his evolving poetic philosophy and deep emotional vulnerability. The text includes facsimiles of the original handwriting, preserving the unique punctuation and voice of both writers. Major themes include the transformative power of love, the nature of artistic sympathy, and the transition from intellectual peers to intimate partners. The correspondence serves as both a historical record of Victorian literary circles and a timeless testament to a romantic bond that defied physical constraints and societal expectations.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• Correspondence