Romantic and Victorian: She wrote within the context of the Romantic period, embracing themes of love, nature, and the spiritual realm. Victorian sensibilities are also present, reflecting the social and political issues of her time.
Lyricism and Emotion: Browning's poetry is highly lyrical, with flowing rhythms and vivid imagery. She uses rich language to convey intense emotions, often exploring complex psychological states.
Dramatic Monologue: She frequently employed the dramatic monologue form, where a single speaker reveals their inner thoughts and feelings to a silent audience. This technique allows for deep exploration of character and theme.
Feminist Themes: Browning's work often addressed issues of female empowerment, societal constraints on women, and the search for personal fulfillment.
Religious and Philosophical Depth: Her poetry often explores religious and philosophical questions, reflecting the spiritual and intellectual concerns of the Victorian era.
Use of Symbolism and Allegory: Browning frequently employed symbolism and allegory to convey complex ideas and emotions. Her poetry is layered with symbolic meaning, inviting multiple interpretations.
Classical Influences: She was deeply influenced by classical literature, particularly Greek mythology and Roman poetry, which can be seen in her choice of themes and imagery.
Musicality and Sound Devices: Browning was a master of sound devices, such as alliteration, assonance, and consonance, which contribute to the musicality and memorability of her poetry.
Specific Examples:
* "Sonnets from the Portuguese": This collection of sonnets is renowned for its passionate and intimate portrayal of love, exploring the complexities of a relationship.
* "Aurora Leigh": This epic poem, written in blank verse, is a feminist masterpiece that explores a woman's journey of self-discovery and creative expression.
* "The Cry of the Children": This dramatic monologue is a powerful indictment of child labor and the injustices faced by the working class.
Overall, Elizabeth Barrett Browning's writing style is distinctive and influential. Her poetry combines Romantic sensibility with Victorian social commentary, creating a rich and multifaceted body of work that continues to resonate with readers today.