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Cover of The letters of Queen Victoria, vol. 1, 1837-1843 : $b A selection from Her Majesty's correspondence between the years 1837 and 1861.

The letters of Queen Victoria, vol. 1, 1837-1843 : $b A selection from Her Majesty's correspondence between the years 1837 and 1861.

Written by Queen of Great Britain Victoria

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Great BritainEuropeVictoria, Queen of Great Britain, 1819-1901

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About this book

"The Letters of Queen Victoria: A Selection from Her Majesty's Correspondence" is a historical collection edited by Arthur Christopher Benson and Viscount Esher, published in the early 20th century. This work compiles significant correspondence from Queen Victoria during her reign, focusing particularly on the years from her accession to the throne in 1837 until 1861, showcasing her personal and political insights. The book seeks to illuminate the Queen's character and her responses to the circumstances of her time, as well as her relationships with influential political figures and family members. At the start of this volume, a preface provides readers with an overview of the extensive documentation preserved by Queen Victoria. It explains the meticulous arrangement of her correspondence, which includes letters from political ministers, royal relatives, and personal acquaintances. The opening portion details the context of her upbringing, the formation of her character, and her initial experiences as a young monarch. The correspondence offers a glimpse into her early life, influencing her views on duty, relationships, and governance, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her life as Queen and the unfolding historical events of her reign.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The letters of Queen Victoria, vol. 1, 1837-1843 : $b A selection from Her Majesty's correspondence between the years 1837 and 1861., written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • informative
  • historical
  • intimate

This inaugural volume of "The Letters of Queen Victoria" offers an unparalleled glimpse into the early years of her reign, from her accession in 1837 to 1843. Through her personal correspondence, readers witness the young monarch's formation, her navigation of political duties, and the development of key relationships, most notably with Lord Melbourne and Prince Albert. The collection illuminates Victoria's burgeoning sense of duty, her passionate nature, and her evolving understanding of her role as Queen, providing a vital primary source for understanding 19th-century British history and the character of one of its most iconic figures. It serves as a foundational text for comprehending the personal and political forces that shaped the Victorian era.

“"I am Queen of this country, and I will not be put down!"”

Key themes

Duty and Monarchy
This theme explores Victoria's profound sense of responsibility towards her role as Queen. From her earliest letters, she expresses a strong commitment to her nation and her duties, often feeling the immense weight of the crown. The correspondence illustrates her evolving understanding of constitutional monarchy, her determination to assert her authority, and her continuous effort to balance personal desires with the demands of her position.
Love and Partnership
A significant portion of this volume is dedicated to Victoria's deep and passionate love for Prince Albert. The theme explores the transformative power of their relationship, how it provided Victoria with emotional stability, intellectual stimulation, and a trusted partner in her demanding role. It highlights the personal happiness Victoria found amidst her public duties and the profound influence Albert had on her character and reign.
Coming of Age and Self-Discovery
The letters chronicle Victoria's journey from an eighteen-year-old, somewhat sheltered princess to a more confident and mature Queen. This theme examines her intellectual and emotional development, her learning process in understanding governance, and her assertion of personal agency. It shows how she navigated the complexities of her position, learned from her mentors, and gradually forged her own identity as a ruler and a woman.

Worth discussing

How do Victoria's early letters reveal her personal growth and development as a monarch?

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