Kathryn Hughes: Victorians Undone

Just read first section of this about a scandal in the very early years of Victoria's reign. It's magnificent and wonderfully and sharply written. If the rest is as good as this then I am in for an treat! The focus is on a physical detail or characteristic of a number of ' eminent Victorians' and what it tells us about them and their society l

Well this was just as good as I hoped ( although I did not find the final section as riveting and illuminating as the rest). I am going to refer to each section by the body part and character focused on but will not explain in detail so that you have to go and read the book yourself.

Lady Floras' belly gives us a riveting picture of the very start of Victorias reign and the toxic atmosphere of the court and people that V had to contend with. She is revealed as a remarkable young lady and somewhat unlike the popular image of her and her times, which is something the book is brilliant at showing.

Daarwins beard is one of the best chapters as it covers and connects in such a fascinating way so many big and small ideas..from the fashion aspects of bead wearing to the unhygienic practical consequences, the image that it both to the wearer and the world and even at the end it reflected Darwins development and refining of his still stunning theories that the Southern states and politicians of the USA are still struggling with.

The chapters on Eliot ( George) and Fanny Cornforth are particularly fascinating for what they tell/ show us about how women and the image that they have both of themselves and by others...other women, men and society at large...are of such vital and central importance.

Think not say any more but just urge you to read and relish.