Description
Book SynopsisThe Offenses Against the Person Act of 1828 opened magistrates’ courts to abused working-class wives. Newspapers in turn reported on these proceedings, and in this way the Victorian scrutiny of domestic conduct began. But how did popular fiction treat “private” family violence?
Trade ReviewProfessor Surridge exhibits a clear and persuasive historical sense as well as sensitivity to the novels and stories. I believe this study will have lasting value because of its careful historical research and corresponding interpretation of the texts. * Kansas State University *
“From a historian’s perspective, Surridge’s interpretations of individual texts are persuasive, yet it is her contextualization of these works of fiction within ongoing reform movements and newspaper reporting that makes this a truly remarkable book.”
“A carefully researched and lucidly written investigation of literary portrayals of domestic violence.... Surridge’s precise historicizing reveals fictional subtleties with new clarity.”
