Some Reminiscences

This 1906 two-volume memoir provides an unparalleled glimpse into the Rossetti family and its friendships with many Victorian cultural figures.

William Michael Rossetti (Author)

9781108060264, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 6 June 2013

318 pages, 8 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 1.8 cm, 0.41 kg

William Michael Rossetti (1829–1919) made himself the diarist, chronicler and champion of one of the most creative Victorian families. This two-volume memoir of 1906 provides an unparalleled glimpse into the dynamics of the Rossettis, covering his own childhood and that of his siblings, the genesis of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, and friendships with such outstanding figures as Morris, Burne-Jones, Swinburne and the Brownings. In fact, many of the members of the Victorian art and literary world make an appearance at some point in these volumes. But what is so engaging about the work is the way in which William Michael treats these personalities straightforwardly and unpretentiously. Especially fascinating are the observations that deal with intimate family details, his thoughts about brother Dante Gabriel and his attitude to sister Christina as her work developed. Though what he says is not always completely candid, his remarks remain uniquely informed, subtle and telling.

19. My literary work, 1858 to 1867
20. Charles Cayley and Christina Rossetti
21. The Cheyne Walk circle of friends
22. Some foreign trips, etc.
23. Editing Shelley, etc.
Trelawney
24. Other editorial work
25. The Inland Revenue and some of its officials
26. My marriage and married life
27. Our children
28. Literary and lecturing work, 1874 to 1893
29. Family intimates in our married life
30. Other acquaintances, 1874 to 1893
31. Deaths in the family
32. My works from 1894 onwards
33. Concluding words
Index.

Subject Areas: Literary studies: c 1800 to c 1900 [DSBF]