victorian era crime fiction

Well, Victorian era crime fiction is known for its elaborate plots. There were often multiple layers of mystery. The villains in these stories were sometimes from the upper classes, which was a bit of a subversion as crime was often associated with the lower classes. The use of forensic science, although not as advanced as today, was starting to be incorporated. For example, the examination of fingerprints and footprints. And the stories usually had a clear sense of justice in the end, with the guilty being punished and the truth being revealed, which was in line with the Victorian values of the time.

Arthur Conan Doyle is one of the most famous. He created Sherlock Holmes, a character that has become an icon in crime fiction. His stories were full of brilliant deductions and interesting mysteries. Another well - known author was Wilkie Collins. His novel 'The Moonstone' is considered one of the first detective novels in the English language.

Edgar Allan Poe, although an American, had a great influence on Victorian era crime writing. His tales of mystery and the macabre set the stage for many of the elements that were later developed in Victorian crime novels, such as the use of the detective figure and the exploration of the criminal mind.

One characteristic is the detailed portrayal of Victorian society. These novels often show the class differences, from the poor slums to the upper - class mansions. Another is the complex characters. Detectives were often eccentric and highly intelligent, like Sherlock Holmes. Also, the settings were typically gloomy, with fog - filled streets and dark alleys adding to the mysterious atmosphere.

The Victorian Era Fiction often has complex moral themes. Characters are usually concerned with propriety and social status. For example, in many novels, there are strict class divides shown. Also, it frequently features elaborate descriptions of settings, like the detailed portrayal of London in Dickens' works.

The use of detective figures is a key characteristic. Detectives in Victorian crime fiction are often highly intelligent and observant. They use logic and deduction to solve crimes. For instance, Sherlock Holmes is a prime example. His ability to notice the smallest details was remarkable. Moreover, Victorian crime fiction often had a lot of suspense. The authors would keep the readers on the edge of their seats, slowly revealing clues and misdirecting them at times. The moral and ethical issues of the time were also reflected in these stories, like the role of women in society and the problems related to industrialization.

It reflects the Victorian era through its settings. The use of decaying mansions and dark alleys in the city reflects the contrast between the wealthy and the poor in Victorian society. Also, the fog - covered landscapes were a common feature of Victorian cities, which added to the sense of mystery in the Gothic fiction.

Charles Dickens is a very well - known author. His works like 'Oliver Twist' and 'Great Expectations' are famous. Another is Charlotte Bronte, who wrote 'Jane Eyre'.

They often have complex moral themes. For example, many novels explore the conflict between social propriety and individual desires. Dickens' works like 'Great Expectations' show how characters struggle with the expectations of society and their own dreams.

You might come across the phrase 'Victorian-era fiction'. This clearly indicates stories that are based in the context of the Victorian period. These works can offer insights into the values, customs, and lifestyles of that era.