Women have always been literary. We have always loved to express ourselves with words and writing. Some of the earliest known writings are believed to be written by women. Scholars widely consider Ann Bradstreet to be America’s first poet. One of my favorite poems, The Thunder, Perfect Mind, was written by a woman and dates [...]
Jane Austen wrote stories and poems to amuse herself and her family from a young age and eventually compiled 29 of them into three bound notebooks. These volumes provide a little glimpse into the author she would become. The “stories are full of anarchic fantasies of female power, licence, illicit behaviour, and general high spirits,” [...]
If it’s November, it’s time for Dickens fairs! These mid-Victorian London-inspired events pay homage to 19th century author Charles Dickens and the wonderful characters he created. The fairs are popular throughout England and the USA. Each one has its own signature, but all embody the spirit of the time. Here are a few Dickens Fairs [...]
The legend continues You’re probably familiar with the story of Santa Claus and how his presence and presents have changed over the years. The origins of his wife, on the other hand, are less known. Here’s what we know. As early as the 16th century, ‘Yule and his wife’ would join local public officials in [...]
The start of December brings the season of Victorian balls, like the Fezziwigs held by organizations such as The Commonwealth Vintage Dancers and Regency Encounters which both held yearly Victorian balls prior to Covid. The night is filled with 19th century carols, refreshments, and dancing as guests step back in time. While not as many [...]
Over two hundred years ago, in 1818, Mary Shelley first published Frankenstein; or the Modern Prometheus. Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin Shelley was the daughter of the feminist author, Mary Wollstonecraft, and the philosopher, William Godwin. At fifteen, she fell in love with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who was married and had two children at the [...]
Are you attending a Dickens-themed event? Whether you are participating in a Dickens Fair, are part of a Victorian caroling group, or are part of a Dickens production such as A Christmas Carol, it’s important for a lady to know how to dress the part! We’re here to wrap it all up for you in [...]
Monster Stories and Halloween Who doesn't love monster movies and stories around Halloween? The thought conjures up Gothic images centered in or near the Victorian era. Whether you are searching for costume inspiration or are planning a movie party, here are three classic monster stories that might pique your interest. Frankenstein Who doesn't think of Frankenstein when Halloween [...]