Victorian House Life

The architecture and decoration of better-class American residences during the Victorian era reflected the elements of the society at the time. This lavishly illustrated book, featuring fine color photographs, explores how these residential designs mirrored the changing role of women, the rise of mass-produced goods and consumerism, middle-class pretensions, and the emerging new morality.

The Victorian period in the United States saw significant social and economic transformations. These changes were manifested in the design and decor of the homes of the upper and middle classes. The book delves into how the architecture and ornamentation of these residences served as a visual representation of the evolving societal dynamics.

One of the key aspects explored is the changing role of women within the domestic sphere. As women's influence and responsibilities within the household grew, the design of these homes reflected this shift, with spaces dedicated to the female inhabitants' activities and interests. The book examines how the architecture and decorative elements catered to the emerging responsibilities and pursuits of Victorian women.

Furthermore, the book investigates the impact of the rise of mass-produced goods and the growing consumer culture on the design of these better-class American homes. The availability of affordable, mass-produced furnishings and decorative items allowed the middle class to emulate the aesthetic sensibilities of the upper echelons of society. The book showcases how this new consumerism was manifested in the homes of the aspiring middle class.

Additionally, the book explores the ways in which the architecture and decoration of these residences reflected the middle-class pretensions and the desire to showcase social status and refinement. The strategic placement of certain design elements and the careful curation of the home's appearance served as a means of conveying the homeowners' perceived social standing and cultural refinement.

Lastly, the book examines how the residential designs of the Victorian era mirrored the emerging new morality and values of the time. The book delves into how the architectural and decorative choices made by the homeowners reflected the changing moral and ethical compass of the society.

This lavishly illustrated volume is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricate relationship between the built environment and the sociocultural dynamics of the Victorian era in the United States. The book is available from Elliott & Clark Publishing, PO Box 21365, Washington, DC 20009. It is double-spaced and does not include an index.

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