Harriet Martineau Boeken

Published in 1832, Illustrations of Political Economy established Harriet Martineau as both a successful and controversial author and a pioneer of nineteenth-century “social problem” writing. This widely read series of didactic stories popularized political economy, making it accessible to audiences by vividly dramatizing issues such as overpopulation and labour strikes. Illustrations of Political Economy marks a pivotal moment in which literature and politics came together, laying the foundation for the realism and social commentary of later Victorian novels.This Broadview edition contains a critical introduction and a rich selection of historical documents, including contemporary reviews of Illustrations and writings on population growth, factory conditions, and working-class life."Logan's excellent critical edition makes this important text newly engaging and highly accessible for the next generation of cultural historians and general readers." -- Alexis Easley, University of Alaska Southeast

Focusing on the significance of education, Harriet Martineau emphasized its role as a fundamental element for personal and societal improvement. She believed that universal access to education, encompassing both intellectual and physical development, would lead to a better society. Her insights, originating from her early writings at the age of 21, reflect her lifelong commitment to advocating for comprehensive educational reforms.

Exploring the mid-19th century, Harriet Martineau shares her experiences traveling through the United States and Canada in this two-volume narrative. As an English writer and sociologist, she offers insightful observations on the cultures, landscapes, and social dynamics of the regions she visited, providing a unique perspective on Western society during that era.

Harriet Martineau stands out as a pioneering figure in sociology, often recognized as the first female sociologist. Her extensive body of work includes books and essays that explore societal issues from diverse perspectives, particularly focusing on women's roles and rights in a male-dominated society. Martineau's writings not only earned her financial independence but also garnered admiration from notable figures, including Princess Victoria. Her ability to blend sociological analysis with a feminist viewpoint marked her as a significant intellectual force in the Victorian era.

The second volume of this classical work offers valuable insights into societal structures and dynamics throughout history. Recognizing its significance, Alpha Editions has taken steps to preserve the text by republishing it in a modern format, ensuring clarity and readability. This edition has been meticulously reformatted and retyped, providing a fresh presentation while maintaining the integrity of the original work for contemporary and future readers.

Recognized for its significance throughout history, this book has been preserved and republished in a modern format to ensure its legacy endures for both present and future generations. The efforts to maintain its accessibility highlight its enduring relevance and importance in the literary canon.

Harriet Martineau, a pioneering British social theorist and writer, is recognized as the first female sociologist, offering insights from diverse perspectives including sociological, religious, and feminine angles. Her extensive writings, which include translations of Auguste Comte, allowed her to achieve financial independence in a male-dominated Victorian society. Martineau's work was influential, even attracting the interest of young Princess Victoria, and she advocated for a comprehensive societal analysis to address women's status. Her impact was noted by contemporaries, highlighting her unique position in her field.

Harriet Martineau, recognized as the first female sociologist, made significant contributions to social theory and literature through her diverse writings. She approached her topics from sociological, holistic, religious, domestic, and feminist angles, advocating for a comprehensive analysis of women's societal roles. Her ability to support herself solely through writing was exceptional for a woman in the Victorian era, and her work was well-regarded, even by figures like Princess Victoria. Martineau's influence extended to her contemporaries, who acknowledged her unique political and lecturing skills.

Focusing on women's education in the 19th century, the author critiques the prevailing standards and advocates for a curriculum that integrates domestic responsibilities with academic learning. Emphasizing the natural role of women as mothers, the text argues for a holistic approach to education that prepares women for both intellectual and domestic life, reflecting the societal norms and expectations of the time.

Deerbrook portrays the failed love affair between Edward Hope, a local physician and Margaret Ibbotson, his sister-in-law. Married to Hester Ibbotson, Edward's life becomes a series of misfortune, first with his stifling marriage and second due to a vile rumour that he had robbed a grave! Excerpt: "Every town-bred person who travels in a rich country region, knows what it is to see a neat white house planted in a pretty situation, -in a shrubbery, or commanding a sunny common, or nestling between two hills, -and to say to himself, as the carriage sweeps past its gate, "I should like to live there,"-"I could be very happy in that pretty place." Transient visions pass before his mind's eye of dewy summer mornings, when the shadows are long on the grass, and of bright autumn afternoons, when it would be luxury to saunter in the neighbouring lanes; and of frosty winter days, when the sun shines in over the laurustinus at the window, while the fire burns with a different light from that which it gives in the dull parlours of a city."