Victorian society did not read literature as we do today.
The most popular Victorian novels were usually published in weekly or monthly serial form. The standard publication format for 19th century novels was the 'triple-decker' - 3 volumes of the text.
How this can be brought into the classroom:
- A rewarding experience for students is to analyse a 'long' novel in its serialised parts.
- This allows students to interact with the text as contemporary Victorians did, emphasising the importance and effect of cliffhangers.
- Students can profitably compare the serialised novels to modern forms of entertainment, such as weekly soap operas.
Stephen Miles, who teaches English at Worle Community School, was inspired to suggest these teaching ideas after hearing Dr Vicky Greenway (Royal Holloway, University of London) speak about The Victorian Novel and serial publication at the CPD subject day 19th century novels for 21st century students.
Schools Programme members can download the resources from the event in the PTI Staffroom.
Want to discover more inspiring subject knowledge? See our upcoming courses and events for 2016/17, including our CPD subject days: Literary non-fiction, Frankenstein: Taming the monster and Shakespeare in context.
Find more knowledge nuggets here.
Image: By Chicago : National Prtg. & Engr. Co. [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.