London, England

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Christina Rossetti was born in London on December 5, 1830. She spent most of her life in the city, which provided a rich cultural and intellectual environment that influenced her work. Rossetti grew up in a highly artistic and intellectual household in London.  London was the center of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a group of artists and writers that included her brother Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Being in London provided Christina with access to publishers and literary circles that were essential for her career. Her major works, including Goblin Market and Other Poems (1862), were published in London. he city's diverse cultural scene and social issues influenced her poetry. Themes of spirituality, desire, and renunciation in her work reflect the complex social and religious dynamics of Victorian London. Christina Rossetti spent her final years in London, where she continued to write despite health challenges. She passed away in London on December 29, 1894. London's vibrant literary and cultural environment was integral to Christina Rossetti's development as a poet and her contributions to Victorian literature.

During the late 1700s, London was a city of rapid growth and significant transformation. London's population grew dramatically, from about 750,000 in 1760 to over 1 million by the end of the century. This growth was driven by migration from other parts of Britain and Europe, as well as improvements in public health. The city was a major center of trade and commerce, benefiting from its role in the British Empire. The shipping industry was particularly important, with the Port of London being one of the busiest in the world. London was a hub for artists, writers, and intellectuals. Figures like Samuel Johnson, Mary Wollstonecraft, and William Hogarth were active during this time. 

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.

“The Proceedings of the Old Bailey.” Www.oldbaileyonline.org, www.oldbaileyonline.org/about/london-lifelate18th.

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Coordinates

Latitude: 51.507217800000
Longitude: -0.127586200000

Timeline of Events Associated with London, England

Date Event Manage
5 Dec 1830

Birth of Christina Rossetti

Born on December 5, 1830, in London, Christina was the youngest child in a highly talented family. Her father, Gabriele Rossetti, was an Italian poet and political exile, and her mother, Frances Polidori, was the sister of Lord Byron's physician. Christina was educated at home, where she was exposed to a rich literary environment, including works by Keats, Scott, and Dante Alighieri. She began writing at a young age, and her first published work appeared in 1850 under the pseudonym "Ellen Alleyne" in the Pre-Raphaelite journal The Germ. Her most famous collection, Goblin Market and Other Poems (1862), established her as a significant poet of her time. This collection included the well-known poem "Goblin Market." 

Christina faced several personal challenges, including health issues. She was diagnosed with Graves' disease in 1871, which affected her appearance and health. Despite her health problems, she continued to write and publish poetry, often drawing on her deep religious faith for strength and inspiration. 

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.
1862

Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti

"Goblin Market" is one of Christina Rossetti's most famous and intriguing poems, first published in 1862. 

The poem tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling exotic fruits. Laura succumbs to the temptation and eats the goblin fruit, which leads to dire consequences. Lizzie, in an act of self-sacrifice, confronts the goblins to save her sister, ultimately restoring Laura's health. 

The bond between the sisters is a key theme, highlighting the strength and selflessness of their relationship.  The poem reflects Victorian attitudes towards women, sexuality, and morality. "Goblin Market" has been interpreted in various ways, including as a religious allegory, a critique of Victorian gender roles, and a celebration of female solidarity. "Goblin Market" remains a powerful and multifaceted work, showcasing Rossetti's poetic brilliance and her ability to weave complex themes into a captivating narrative. 

Bovey, Lee-James. “Analysis of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti.” Poem Analysis, 2 Apr. 2017, poemanalysis.com/christina-rossetti/goblin-market/.

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29 Dec 1895

Christina Rossetti's Death

Christina Rossetti passed away on December 29, 1894, in London.  She had been suffering from cancer, which ultimately led to her death . Rossetti was buried on January 2, 1895, in the family grave on the west side of Highgate Cemetery . This cemetery is known for its historical significance and the notable figures interred there.

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.

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