This title, part of the Introductions to British Literature and Culture series, examines Victorian literature and its context from 1837-1901. Moran (English literature, Brunel U., London) sections the book into four parts; the first offers the historical, cultural, and intellectual context to the period; the second and lengthiest section describes literature in the Victorian age, including the major genres of poetry, fiction, drama, and nonfiction prose as well as literary movements such as the Pre-Raphaelites, Aestheticism, Decadence, and New Women fiction. The third section outlines critical approaches, and the fourth lists resources for study, including a chronology of historical and cultural events, a glossary of terms and concepts, and further suggested resources. This publication is intended for introductory-level students. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)