Distinguishing Edwardian & Victorian Eras

Edwardian and Victorian are two different eras in British history, specifically in the monarchy, that have left significant marks on various aspects of life, including art, culture, architecture, and fashion. The Victorian era precedes the Edwardian era, as Queen Victoria was the mother of King Edward VII and also the Queen of England. The Victorian era falls in between the Edwardian era and the Georgian era. Many people find it challenging to differentiate between the Victorian and Edwardian eras as there was some overlap due to the two personalities sharing an intimate relationship as mother and son.

Victorian Era

The Victorian era is said to have started with Queen Victoria’s ascension to the throne in 1837 and continued until her death in 1901. While it is true that eras are counted based upon personality in power or the achievements or monuments made under the rule of a personality, it is difficult to bind the Victorian era strictly in the years that she was the queen of England. This is because many aspects of the preceding Georgian era continued to have their effect during the Victorian era.

The spirit of exploration and scientific discovery dominated the Victorian era. The people in this era were interested in unraveling the mysteries of nature. There was also a clear shift towards humanitarianism, with influential people talking about social equality and the society undergoing changes with the abolition of slavery and the introduction of women’s suffrage. However, the period of Queen Victoria is also remembered for sobriety and a sort of prudish formality that marked royal events and ceremonies.

As far as fashion is concerned, women’s clothing was prudish in the Victorian era, and though they characterized feminine styles, many times clothes felt uncomfortable for women. The corsets were tight and uncomfortable, with women being required to wear many petticoats.

The Victorian era is marked by many scientific inventions and discoveries, such as the light bulb, telephone, automobile, sewing machine, and even the bicycle.

Edwardian Era

The Edwardian era is said to have begun with his ascension to the throne in 1901 and continued until his death in 1910. However, the essence and spirit of the decade continued much later in English society. So much so, that the trends of art and culture in the Edwardian era can be seen even during the reign of King George V, his successor. The same effects could be felt during the last six years of the Victorian era when the Queen was seen much less among the public, and her son and heir Edward VII had assumed control unofficially.

In terms of propriety and royal formality, the Edwardian era is characterized by lifting somberness and haughtiness. The campaign for social equality gained momentum, and there was a much more pronounced emphasis on helping the poor and the needy.

There was a marked shift in women’s clothing, which became much more feminine, with an hourglass shape being visible in the dresses of this era. In terms of science and technology, the inventions made during the previous era were not only put to better use, but there were many more inventions in the Edwardian era, as well.

Key Takeaways

• Victorian era is considered more conservative than the Edwardian era.
• Royal somberness and haughtiness were somewhat lifted in the Edwardian era.
• Women’s clothing became more feminine in the Edwardian era, revealing an hourglass shape, whereas Victorian women’s clothing was long and tight.