Queen Victoria · Question
How does Queen Victoria develop the theme of Duty and Morality?
Answer
Queen Victoria by Lytton Strachey develops Duty and Morality across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book emphasizes Victoria's lifelong commitment to duty, conscience, and moral rectitude, from her childhood vow to 'be good' to her strict enforcement of domestic virtue at court, such as banning divorced women and frowning on widows remarrying.
Victoria's strict sense of duty and moral rectitude defined her personal conduct and public image, especially during her long mourning for Albert.
The Duke of Kent frames his marriage as a painful duty to the nation and the succession, contrasting his personal attachment to Madame St. Laurent with his public obligation.
The Duchess of Kent's primary goal was to raise Victoria as a Christian queen, instilling a sense of duty and moral rectitude, as seen in the educational examination and Victoria's confirmation reflections.
Evidence in the book
- Queen Victoria
Victoria's strict sense of duty and moral rectitude defined her personal conduct and public image, especially during her long mourning for Albert.
- III
The Duke of Kent frames his marriage as a painful duty to the nation and the succession, contrasting his personal attachment to Madame St. Laurent with his public obligation.
- II: Childhood
The Duchess of Kent's primary goal was to raise Victoria as a Christian queen, instilling a sense of duty and moral rectitude, as seen in the educational examination and Victoria's confirmation reflections.
- III
Victoria's early education emphasized Christian duty and moral rectitude, culminating in her resolve to 'be good' upon learning of her future role.
- V
Victoria's resolve to 'do my utmost to fulfil my duty towards my country' reflects her strong sense of moral obligation.
- Marriage
Stockmar's insistence on constitutional propriety and the condemnation of Melbourne's secret correspondence highlight the tension between personal loyalty and constitutional duty.
- I
Albert's moral earnestness and desire to be 'a good and useful man' are emphasized, along with Stockmar's insistence on a vocation of grave responsibility.
- Chapter II
Albert's internal conflict between personal ambition and his sense of duty to serve his new country and promote the welfare of others.
