Magnificent Obsession: Victoria, Albert and the Death That Changed the Monarchy

Dive into the captivating world of Victorian England with Helen Rappaport's "Magnificent Obsession: Victoria, Albert and the Death That Changed the Monarchy," a meticulously researched and deeply moving exploration of Queen Victoria's life following the death of her beloved Prince Albert. This isn't just another biography; Rappaport masterfully weaves together historical fact and compelling narrative to reveal the profound impact Albert's death had not only on Victoria, but also on the very fabric of the British monarchy. Published in 2011 by Hutchinson, this enthralling hardcover edition (ISBN: 9780091931544) takes you behind the closed doors of Buckingham Palace to witness the immediate aftermath of Albert's passing. Rappaport expertly dismantles the long-held belief that Albert succumbed to typhoid fever, presenting compelling evidence suggesting a different cause of death, sparking renewed interest in the health struggles of the prince. The book meticulously charts the decade following Albert's death, a period marked by Victoria's intense grief and self-imposed seclusion. Explore how this extended mourning profoundly shaped the monarchy, leading to significant changes in its public role and perception. Rappaport draws upon a wealth of primary sources, including documents from the Royal Archives and contemporary newspaper accounts, to paint a vivid and nuanced portrait of Victoria's emotional state and the political pressures she faced. "Magnificent Obsession" offers a fresh perspective on a well-trodden historical period. Instead of simply recounting events, Rappaport delves into the psychological complexities of Victoria's grief, revealing her vulnerabilities and the immense burden she carried as both queen and widow. She explores how Victoria's almost obsessive mourning both solidified her public image and, paradoxically, threatened the very stability of the Crown. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in: * **Victorian History:** Gain a deeper understanding of the social, political, and cultural landscape of Victorian England. * **Royal History:** Explore the inner workings of the British monarchy and the personal lives of its most iconic figures. * **Biography:** Discover a compelling portrait of Queen Victoria, a woman whose reign defined an era. * **Medical History:** Question established narratives surrounding Albert's death and consider alternative possibilities. * **The History of Grief:** Understand how grief was experienced and expressed in the 19th century. Helen Rappaport, a renowned historian specializing in Victorian Russia and Victorian Britain, brings her expertise to bear in this compelling and insightful study. Her previous works have been praised for their meticulous research, engaging prose, and ability to bring historical figures to life. With "Magnificent Obsession," she delivers another triumph, offering a fresh and compelling perspective on a pivotal moment in British history. Prepare to be captivated by this story of love, loss, and the enduring power of the British monarchy. This 298-page book is available in English.