Penny politics explores how and why Victorian popular literature from the 1830s and 1840s appealed to politicised, intermittently radicalised working- class audiences by supplementing its violent, counter-cultural entertainments with openly political content. -- .
Reading against the Middle-Class Novel
Focusing on the intersection of Chartism and Victorian literature, this work explores the often-overlooked fiction produced by the Chartist movement. It highlights contributions from both prominent authors like Ernest Jones and Thomas Cooper and lesser-known figures, challenging the notion that Chartist fiction lacks aesthetic and political merit. By situating these narratives within the broader context of the Victorian novel, the author sheds light on their significance and impact on literary history.
The book offers a comprehensive analysis of Victorian ideology and its impact on working-class culture, revealing new insights into the social dynamics of the era. Through meticulous research and engaging writing, it explores the complexities of class relations and cultural expressions during a transformative period in history. This study is essential for understanding the interplay between societal norms and the lived experiences of the working class in Victorian society.