One of the most significant poets of the Victorian era, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, is notable for her extraordinary ability to use poetry to challenge the gender stereotypes that were prevalent in her day. Browning was raised in a home that valued education and intellectual pursuits. She was born in Coxhoe Hall, County Durham, England, in 1806 to a wealthy family. Edward Barrett Moulton Barrett, her father, supported her academic endeavors, gave her access to a sizable library, and encouraged her writing aspirations. Elizabeth Barrett Browning had a lifelong history of poor health, however her resilience and intellect drove her to become a celebrated writer, which will all be discussed below. From 1837 until 1901, the Victorian era was marked by firm gender …show more content…
Elizabeth Barrett Browning does, in fact, stand out as a key figure in the poetry that challenged the gender norms of her day. Her father encouraged her to grow up in an intellectually stimulating environment, which set the groundwork for her academic interests and writing career. She overcame serious health issues, nevertheless her intelligence and willpower helped her succeed as a poet and use her position to speak out in favor of women's rights and intellectual freedom. This essay examines how her poetry promoted women's social, emotional, and intellectual independence by challenging and overturning gender stereotypes written during the Victorian era. Elizabeth Barrett Browning's worldview and aspirations as a writer were greatly influenced by her upbringing. Ms. Browning was the oldest child among twelve when she was born in the United Kingdom to the family. Progressive thinker Edward Barrett Moulton Barrett, her father, supported his daughter's academic endeavors. For a woman of her era, Elizabeth's early schooling was uncommon, covering subjects such as English, Greek, and