Sandra von der Reith

• Veranstaltungsart: Seminar
• Veranstaltungsnr.: 01.034
• Termin: Di 10.00 bis 11.30 Uhr
• Veranstaltungstermine:  03.11.,17.11.,01.12.,15.12.2026, 05.01., 19.01.2027
• Veranstaltungsort : ZFW, Jungiusstr. 9, Raum 231

The Edwardian era in England was characterised by profound social upheaval and technological progress, but also by stark class divisions. It is the period before the First World War. During this time, nature was often attributed with great power, and there was a search for a primal quality that could give people strength and connect them with one another.

In this seminar, we will examine two very different works that address this topic: on a small scale and on a large scale – and for both children and adults: The children’s book The Secret Garden by Hodgson Burnett (1911) promotes nature as a remedy. By reviving the overgrown garden and harnessing the so-called magic of nature, the neglected, sickly children Mary and Colin overcome their isolation, develop a zest for life and regain both physical and mental health. E. M. Forster’s novel Howards End (1910) paints a portrait of Edwardian English society: Here, seemingly insurmountable class differences play a central role: the working class, the educated, art-loving and idealistic upper middle class in the form of the Schlegel family, and the pragmatic, materialistic Wilcox family of industrialists. The country estate of Howards End – a place of tranquillity and togetherness – symbolically bridges the social divides.

Texts: Frances Hodgson Burnett: The Secret Garden (1911) E. M. Forster: Howards End (1910). – The Secret Garden should be read by the start of the course.

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