Queen Victoria · Chapter
VIII: Gladstone and Lord Beaconsfield explained
The chapter contrasts Victoria's relationships with her two great Prime Ministers: William Gladstone and Benjamin Disraeli.
What happens
The chapter contrasts Victoria's relationships with her two great Prime Ministers: William Gladstone and Benjamin Disraeli. Gladstone's reverential but impersonal demeanor alienates the Queen, while Disraeli's flattery and personal devotion win her deep affection and trust. Disraeli encourages her to emerge from seclusion and reinforces her sense of royal power, leading to a close friendship and political alliance.
Themes in this chapter
Monarchy and Constitutional Role
The chapter explores the constitutional limits of royal power, with Gladstone subordinating the army to Parliament and Disraeli encouraging Victoria's expansive view of her prerogatives.
Public Perception and Popularity
Victoria's seclusion fuels republican sentiment, and Disraeli's flattery helps restore her public image and self-confidence.
Grief and Loss
Victoria's prolonged mourning for Albert is central; Disraeli's understanding of her grief wins her loyalty.
Power and Independence
Victoria asserts her will against Gladstone's reforms and embraces Disraeli's vision of her personal power.
Characters to notice
- Queen Victoria
Victoria reacts with resentment to Gladstone's military reforms but is charmed by Disraeli's flattery and devotion, regaining self-confidence and emerging from seclusion.
- Prince Albert
Albert's memory is invoked by Disraeli's eulogies, which deeply affect Victoria and secure his place in her affections.
- Benjamin Disraeli
Disraeli becomes Victoria's favorite minister through his understanding of her grief, flattery, and political support, treating her as both woman and queen.
- William Ewart Gladstone
Gladstone's reforms and impersonal reverence alienate Victoria, who dislikes being treated as an institution rather than a woman.
- Lord Melbourne
Mentioned as a former favorite whose affection Disraeli rivals.
- Lord Derby
Derby expresses concern about Disraeli encouraging Victoria's ideas of personal power.
- Lord Clarendon
Clarendon comments on Disraeli's letters written in 'his best novel style.'
- Sir Robert Peel
Peel is mentioned as Gladstone's revered mentor and a victim of Disraeli's attacks.
Key passages
“He speaks to me as if I were a public meeting”
Victoria complained that Gladstone addressed her with the formality of a public audience rather than as a person.
Illustrates Victoria's personal dislike of Gladstone's impersonal reverence.
“It is just settled; you have it, Madam ... Four millions sterling! and almost immediately. There was only one firm that could do it—Rothschilds. They behaved admirably; advanced the money at a low rate, and the entire interest of the Khedive is now yours, Madam.”
Disraeli triumphantly informed Victoria that the Suez Canal shares had been purchased, presenting the acquisition as a personal gift to her.
Shows Disraeli's flattering and personal approach to statecraft.
“the only person who appreciated the Prince”
Victoria declared that Disraeli alone understood the true worth of Prince Albert.
Key moment in the development of Victoria's trust in Disraeli.
“we authors, ma'am”
Disraeli referred to himself and Victoria as fellow authors, flattering her literary efforts.
Example of Disraeli's personal and flattering manner.
