During the early 1900s, a remarkable fascination with Pharaohs, mummies, pyramids, and everything Egyptian swept across archaeology and culture. This craze, aptly labeled “Egyptomania,” consumed the Victorian era, captivating the public’s imagination. Enthusiasts eagerly flocked to exhibitions and lectures, hungry for the newfound artifacts and knowledge about ancient Egypt.
The resurgence of interest in Egyptian culture owed much to Napoleon’s Egyptian Campaign, which exposed Europe to the wonders of this ancient civilization. Such was the enduring impact that, even in later years, popular culture continued to be influenced by this infatuation. The iconic Hollywood film “The Mummy” emerged as a big hit, transporting audiences to a world steeped in the mystique and allure of ancient Egypt, keeping the flame of Egyptomania alive.
The Era of Inventions
The late 19th century witnessed remarkable strides in technological advancements. In 1876, Alexander Graham Bell revolutionized communication with the invention of the telephone, while Guglielmo Marconi's creation of the radio in 1895 opened up new avenues of wireless transmission. The period also witnessed the emergence of transformative inventions such as the television, the train, the camera, and the vacuum cleaner.
Among these remarkable innovations, one stood out as particularly invaluable—the toilet. This essential invention vastly improved sanitation and hygiene standards, contributing to public health and comfort. The industrial ingenuity of the era propelled England into a state of profound transformation, as these inventions shaped and reshaped society, marking a defining period in history.
The Business of Mourning
In Victorian England, the expression of grief became a significant affair, far surpassing the mere shedding of tears. Women, in particular, embraced preserving their sorrowful emotions by collecting tears in intricately crafted jewelry boxes or bottles adorned with somber black gemstones. Being mourned was of utmost importance, and the idea that no one would shed tears for the departed was simply inconceivable.
Remarkably, even unmarried men took measures to ensure their lamented passing, hiring professional wailers who would weep in mournful display at their gravestones. These elaborate mourning rituals reflected a society deeply entrenched in the customs and rituals surrounding grief, illustrating the profound significance attributed to remembrance and the expression of sorrow during the Victorian era.
Supernatural Obsessions
The Victorians were indeed a peculiar bunch with a fervent fascination for the supernatural. The 19th century gave birth to many ghostly tales and stories involving spirits. Perhaps this fascination was fueled by the emergence of the newly invented camera, which could produce photographic tricks and illusions, sparking intrigue and mystery. Moreover, one cannot dismiss the possibility that the affluent Victorians sought amusement and excitement through the exploration of the paranormal.
It was not uncommon for Lords and Ladies to dabble in hypnotism for sheer entertainment or attend séances in hopes of contacting departed relatives or enigmatic spirits from the ethereal realm. Palm readers, capitalizing on this fascination, thrived and earned substantial wealth from the curious socialites who sought insights into their future.
Curious Curiosities
When it came to home decor, the Victorians took great pride in their magnificent "cabinet of curiosities." These grand displays showcased a captivating assortment of geological, archaeological, and zoological findings from all corners of the globe. Inside, one might discover an array of enchanting objects—antique weapons, exotic seashells, enigmatic bones, and intricate jewelry—all contributing to the allure of these cabinets.
Yet, amidst the fervor for curiosities, it's worth noting that not every item within these collections was a genuine artifact. The Victorian penchant for replicas and expertly crafted imitations blurred the lines between authenticity and artifice. Determining the veracity of curiosity was a daunting task, leaving even the most astute observers uncertain of what was truly genuine in this world of remarkable deception.