After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal
Queen Victoria's Funeral & the Cult of Death
Nov 14, 2024
Dan O'Brien, a historian focused on 18th-century funerals and at the Centre for Death and Society, unravels the complexities surrounding Queen Victoria's funeral. He discusses the emotional impact of her death on the nation and her family's farewells. O'Brien highlights her unique burial wishes, emphasizing the blend of public mourning and personal significance. He also explores the evolving views on death in Victorian society, illuminating how this grand event marked a departure from traditional customs towards a more individualized celebration of life.
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Quick takeaways
- Queen Victoria's funeral reflected a departure from traditional mourning practices, showcasing a vibrant military procession and personal elements.
- The cult of death in Victorian society revealed how funerals were rich expressions of communal values, shaping public attitudes toward mortality.
Deep dives
Queen Victoria's Final Days
Queen Victoria's health significantly deteriorated in her final days, marking a poignant period at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. Her physical decline was evident as she struggled with mobility, vision, and appetite, losing nearly half her body weight. Family gatherings included her eldest son, Prince Edward, and her grandson, Kaiser Wilhelm, who were present during her last moments. Victoria passed away on January 22, 1901, prompting immediate public reaction as news spread quickly among the press and the townspeople.
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