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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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Victorian
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Adjective relating to the reign of *Victoria (1837–1901) which is used in many contexts: of morality (stuffy with more than a dash of hypocrisy); of values (self-help with an emphasis on the family); and most commonly of furniture (heavy and plush) and architecture (massive and ornate). Victorian taste was essentially eclectic, scouring the past for ideas and details. The favourite hunting ground was the Middle Ages, in a romantic reaction to the rational 18C which had preferred classical sources. The period therefore saw the climax of the *Gothic Revival, but Victorian architects also made much use of *Romanesque and even borrowed *Renaissance themes. After being reviled for much of the 20C, the detail and excellent craftsmanship of the Victorian style is now greatly appreciated.
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