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Cornwall, a county located in South West England, is an area famous for its abundance of rare metals and natural resources held underground. As a result it became a prime location for large industrial entities to take root and establish numerous mining operations during the early 1840’s . Unfortunately, like many mining operations throughout the country Cornish mines were infamous for their poor working conditions and exploitation of child labour.

The area of Highgate, found in North London, is where the London Diocesan Penitentiary was located. This establishment was concerned with the reformation and reintegration of fallen women, and attempted to do so through the teaching of religious principles and daily domestic tasks. Christina Rosetti, the author of the influential poem, "Goblin Market", volunteered at this penitentiary from 1859 to 1870. As a woman who possessed deeply religious convictions herself, much of Rosetti's time spent within this area during her volunteering days can be read into "Goblin Market".