Interiority In The Victorian Era

This essay discusses the importance of interiority in relation to the Victorian era. During the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 – 1901, many years after the Industrial Revolution, came major economic developments throughout Britain which had impacts on interior decoration in Victorian homes. The nineteenth century saw a huge growth in the population of Great Britain which had major changes such as the expansion of middle-class families which lead to increased demand for goods and services therefore, trade opened up and links between countries began to form also having both, positive and negative influences on design. Therefore, the intention of this essay is to expand knowledge of the Victorian era and create a better understanding of how …show more content…
During this period, men were considered superior to women in all ways of life. Most males felt uncomfortable in the flamboyant surroundings of their home which often led to them spending as much time away as possible with work. The home was often deemed functionless for men. This allowed them to complete their duties and prove their masculinity. Men during this era were expected to provide for their families and be the head of the home, not only by earning money, but they were needed as protectors. On the other hand, while men were expected to be strong, women were seen as being innocent and pure as an important part of middle-class marriage was sexual innocence however, they also had moral duties and commitments within the home including; cleaning, cooking, childcare and providing a way of life for the male figures in their lives. In fact, women dedicated so much of their lives to the home that it left them un-educated and was understood they almost lost touch with people on the outside world. The most masculine room within the home would have typically been the dining room as this was decorated with dark woods, bold frames and a feeling of escape whereas, the most feminine room was always the drawing room, seen as a place to relax and unwind with a more spacious atmosphere. They had no freedom which meant they often missed social events which usually meant they had very few acquaintances other than family. The classes in the Victorian period were very divided as the class system was very strict, separating the wealthy first class people from the less fortunate working-class people. It was believed that women’s lives became very dull trapped inside the home and the only reason they continued their roles was to give their children and spouse a fulfilled and healthy