The Other Victorians

Steven Marcus offers a groundbreaking exploration of Victorian sexuality and pornography in The Other Victorians, reshaping our understanding of the era's cultural dynamics.

In The Other Victorians, Steven Marcus delves into the complex interplay between authors, audiences, and the texts that characterized Victorian writings on sexuality and pornography. By examining this often-overlooked aspect of Victorian culture, Marcus provides a fresh and revolutionary perspective that challenges conventional views. He reveals how the subjects that were deemed 'shocking' during the Victorian era are not only fascinating but also reflect broader societal attitudes that continue to evolve with contemporary scholarship.

Utilizing the extensive resources available at the Kinsey Institute for Sex Research, Marcus first explores the works of Dr. William Acton, who epitomizes the 'official views' of Victorian sexuality, and Henry Spencer Ashbee, a pioneering bibliographer of pornography. The analysis extends to the anonymous yet significant autobiography My Secret Life, alongside a critical examination of four notable pornographic novels from the period. This exploration sheds light on the connections between these works and the established classics of Victorian literature, offering readers a deeper understanding of the cultural landscape of the time.

The publication of The Other Victorians marked a pivotal moment in the study of the Victorian era, significantly advancing our comprehension of its sub-literature. By connecting these works to the broader context of Victorian culture, Marcus's insightful analysis not only enriches our understanding of the period but also transforms the field of Victorian studies in profound ways.