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Aurora Leigh

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1856

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Book Brief

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Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Aurora Leigh

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1856
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

England • 19th century

Publication Year

1856

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Aurora Leigh by Elizabeth Barrett Browning follows Aurora Leigh, an aspiring poet, who moves from Florence to England after her parents' deaths. She rejects her cousin Romney's marriage proposal to pursue her literary ambitions in London. As Aurora achieves poetic success, she navigates complex relationships, social issues, and personal dilemmas, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of love and purpose. The narrative includes discussions of sexual exploitation and rape.

Contemplative

Inspirational

Melancholic

Romantic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.7

2,672 ratings

61%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Elizabeth Barrett Browning's Aurora Leigh garners acclaim for its innovative blank verse form and feminist themes, highlighting the protagonist's struggle for artistic and personal autonomy. Critics praise its rich, poetic language and depth of social commentary, though some find its dense style challenging. Overall, it stands as a significant work in Victorian literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Aurora Leigh?

Aurora Leigh's ideal reader enjoys Victorian poetry, feminist themes, and narrative verse. Comparable to fans of Jane Eyre and Middlemarch, they appreciate literary works that explore the complexities of women's roles and artistic ambition. This reader values poetic language and rich character development.

3.7

2,672 ratings

61%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Aurora Leigh

A talented and determined poet who navigates societal expectations and personal ambitions in Victorian England, embodying both artistry and womanhood.

Aurora's cousin and a foil to her character, he is dedicated to social justice causes and represents a more conservative viewpoint.

A woman of humble origins and deep moral strength, she faces significant personal challenges while maintaining her dignity and commitment to her son.

A manipulative and ambitious character whose actions profoundly impact the lives of those around her, particularly Marian and Romney.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

England • 19th century

Publication Year

1856

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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