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Spotlight on Romantic Style: Mrs Molesworth

Norman Butler

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Spotlight on Romantic Style

by Mrs. Molesworth

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2395 KB
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Print length	:	16 pages

Mrs Molesworth (1839-1921) was a prolific Victorian children's author who epitomized the Romantic style in her writing. Her books are characterized by their idyllic settings, sentimental characters, and emphasis on nature and imagination. Molesworth's work has been praised for its beauty, charm, and enduring appeal.

Early Life and Influences

Mary Louisa Stewart Molesworth was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in 1839. Her father was a British diplomat, and her mother was Dutch. Molesworth spent her early years in Europe, where she was exposed to a variety of cultures and languages. She was educated at home by governesses, and she developed a love of reading and writing at an early age.

Molesworth's early writing was influenced by the Romantic poets, such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. She was also inspired by the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm. These influences can be seen in her own writing, which is often characterized by its whimsical and imaginative elements.

Writing Career

Molesworth began writing children's books in the early 1870s. Her first book, Carrots, was published in 1876. Carrots was a critical and commercial success, and it quickly established Molesworth as one of the leading children's authors of her time.

Over the next four decades, Molesworth wrote more than 100 books for children. Her books were translated into many languages, and they were read by children all over the world. Molesworth's most famous works include The Cuckoo Clock (1877),The Tapestry Room (1879),and The Adventures of Herr Baby (1881).

Romantic Style

Molesworth's writing is often described as Romantic in style. This is due to her emphasis on nature, imagination, and emotion. Molesworth's books are set in idyllic settings, and they often feature characters who are sensitive and imaginative. Her writing is also full of vivid descriptions of nature, and she often uses metaphors and similes to create a sense of wonder and beauty.

Here is an example of Molesworth's Romantic style from her book The Cuckoo Clock:

The sun was setting, and the sky was all ablaze with color. The trees were standing very still, and the air was full of the scent of flowers. It was a beautiful evening, and the little girl sat down on a bench under a tree to enjoy it.
She closed her eyes and listened to the birds singing. She could hear the cuckoo calling in the distance, and she smiled. She loved the sound of the cuckoo. It always made her think of happy things.

Legacy

Mrs Molesworth died in 1921, but her work continues to be read and enjoyed by children all over the world. Her books have been adapted into films, television shows, and plays, and they have been translated into more than 40 languages.

Molesworth's legacy is one of charm, beauty, and enduring appeal. Her books are a testament to the power of imagination and the importance of nature. They continue to inspire and delight readers of all ages.