Queen Victoria · Chapter
II: Childhood explained
This chapter explores the early life of Princess Victoria, focusing on her education under the strict guidance of her mother, the Duchess of Kent, and the influence of her beloved governess, Baroness Lehzen.
What happens
This chapter explores the early life of Princess Victoria, focusing on her education under the strict guidance of her mother, the Duchess of Kent, and the influence of her beloved governess, Baroness Lehzen. It details the political shifts following the Reform Bill, which elevated the Duchess and Victoria as symbols of middle-class victory, and describes Victoria's confirmation, her close relationships, and the events leading up to her accession to the throne after the death of King William IV.
Themes in this chapter
Duty and Morality
The Duchess of Kent's primary goal was to raise Victoria as a Christian queen, instilling a sense of duty and moral rectitude, as seen in the educational examination and Victoria's confirmation reflections.
Family and Dynasty
Victoria's relationships with her mother, Lehzen, and Uncle Leopold highlight the familial dynamics and the importance of dynasty, especially after Leopold's departure and the death of King William IV.
Religion and Piety
Victoria's confirmation and her appreciation for religious texts like the Bishop of Chester's Exposition of the Gospel of St. Matthew underscore the centrality of Christian piety in her upbringing.
Public Perception and Popularity
The shift in Victoria's status from protégée of an opposition clique to symbol of middle-class victory reflects the importance of public perception and political popularity.
Characters to notice
- Duchess of Kent
Victoria's mother, who oversaw her education with a focus on Christian queenship and duty, and who followed the educational ideals of Dr. Arnold.
- Baroness Lehzen
Victoria's beloved governess and confidante, who became the central figure in Victoria's emotional world and heavily influenced her journal and moral development.
- Queen Victoria
The young princess, depicted as sincere, pious, and dutiful, undergoing confirmation and later ascending the throne with composure and dignity.
- King Leopold
Victoria's uncle and 'second father,' who left for Belgium when she was eleven but remained a distant paternal influence through correspondence.
- Feodora
Victoria's half-sister, who married and left, contributing to Victoria's isolation in a female-dominated environment.
- Lord Melbourne
The Prime Minister who visited Victoria after the death of King William IV, kissed her hand, and was retained by her as head of the ministry.
- Baron Stockmar
Advisor who gave Victoria good advice at breakfast on the day of her accession.
- King William IV
The deceased king whose death prompted Victoria's accession and the convening of her first Privy Council.
Key passages
“The centre of gravity in the constitution was shifted towards the middle classes; the Whigs came into power; and the complexion of the Government assumed a Liberal tinge.”
Political power moved to the middle class, the Whigs gained control, and the government became more liberal.
Describes the political shift after the Reform Bill.
“I felt that my confirmation was one of the most solemn and important events and acts in my life; and that I trusted that it might have a salutary effect on my mind.”
Victoria considered her confirmation a deeply significant event that she hoped would positively influence her character.
Victoria's personal reflection on her confirmation.
“It has long been my intention to retain your Lordship and the rest of the present Ministry at the head of affairs;”
Victoria informed Lord Melbourne that she planned to keep him and his cabinet in power.
Victoria's first political statement as queen, retaining the existing ministry.
