Edwardian vs. Victorian — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 20, 2023
Edwardian refers to the period of British history during the reign of King Edward VII (1901-1910), known for its relative affluence and societal change. Victorian refers to Queen Victoria's reign (1837-1901), characterized by industrial growth.
Difference Between Edwardian and Victorian
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Edwardian and Victorian are terms that denote specific eras in British history and are named after the monarchs who reigned during those periods. Edwardian pertains to King Edward VII's reign from 1901 to 1910, a time of increased leisure, affluence, and social reform. In contrast, the Victorian era corresponds to Queen Victoria's reign from 1837 to 1901, a lengthier period known for industrial revolution, stringent social codes, and imperialistic endeavors.
The Edwardian era, although shorter in duration, is noted for a loosening of the social constraints that characterized the Victorian period. Technological advancements in transportation and communication during the Edwardian era facilitated greater interaction among social classes and had a modernizing impact on society. Victorian society, on the other hand, was more rigidly structured, with a focus on social decorum, family values, and sexual restraint. In terms of architecture, Edwardian structures were more airy and spacious, with simpler lines than the heavy, ornate designs of the Victorian age.
Both periods have left an indelible mark on British history, but while the Victorian era is often looked upon as a time of restraint and discipline, the Edwardian era is usually seen as more relaxed and progressive.
Comparison Chart
Time Period
1901-1910
1837-1901
Monarch
King Edward VII
Queen Victoria
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Social Norms
More relaxed, progressivea
Strict, focused on decorum
Technology
Advanced, with cars and planes
Industrial growth but less technologically advanced than Edwardian
Architectural Style
Airy, spacious, simpler designs
Ornate, elaborate designs
Compare with Definitions
Edwardian
Pertaining to the era of King Edward VII's reign.
The Edwardian period marked a departure from Victorian social norms.
Victorian
Relating to the time of Queen Victoria's reign.
Victorian morals were notably strict.
Edwardian
Characterized by affluence and societal change.
Edwardian fashion was indicative of the era's newfound wealth.
Victorian
Known for stringent social and sexual norms.
Victorian literature often had moralistic themes.
Edwardian
Representing a phase of modernization.
The Edwardian era witnessed the dawn of the automotive age.
Victorian
Characterized by industrial growth.
The Victorian era marked the peak of the British Empire.
Edwardian
Associated with airy architectural styles.
Edwardian homes typically had larger windows and more open floor plans.
Victorian
Associated with ornate architectural designs.
Victorian furniture was often elaborately carved and decorated.
Edwardian
Known for more relaxed social norms.
Edwardian literature often explored themes of social freedom.
Victorian
Representing a focus on family and decorum.
The Victorian home was a symbol of familial stability.
Edwardian
Of, relating to, or characteristic of the reign of Edward VII of England.
Victorian
Of, relating to, or belonging to the period of the reign of Queen Victoria
A Victorian novel.
Edwardian
A person belonging to or exhibiting characteristics typical of the Edwardian period.
Victorian
Relating to or displaying the standards or ideals of morality regarded as characteristic of the time of Queen Victoria
Victorian manners.
Edwardian
Someone belonging to (or as if belonging to) the era of Edward VII
Victorian
Being in the highly ornamented, eclectic style of architecture, decor, and furnishings popular in 19th-century England.
Edwardian
Of or relating to or characteristic of the era of Edward VII in England;
Edwardian furniture
Victorian
A person belonging to or exhibiting characteristics typical of the Victorian period.
Victorian
Of or pertaining to the reign of Queen Victoria of England; as, the Victorian poets.
Victorian
A person who lived during the reign of Victoria
Victorian
Of or relating to Queen Victoria of Great Britain or to the age in which she ruled;
Victorian morals
Victorian
Exaggeratedly proper;
My straitlaced Aunt Anna doesn't approve of my miniskirts
Victorian
Typical of the moral standards or conduct of the age of Queen Victoria
Common Curiosities
What is the Edwardian era?
The Edwardian era refers to the period of King Edward VII's reign from 1901 to 1910.
How did Edwardian social norms differ from Victorian ones?
Edwardian social norms were generally more relaxed and progressive compared to the strict decorum of the Victorian era.
What is the Victorian era?
The Victorian era refers to the period during Queen Victoria's reign from 1837 to 1901.
Which era saw more technological advancement?
The Edwardian era was more technologically advanced, especially in transportation and communication.
What characterized fashion in the Edwardian era?
Edwardian fashion was often lavish, reflecting the era's relative affluence.
Did the Edwardian era have an impact on art?
Yes, the Edwardian era was a time of artistic innovation, partially due to its more relaxed social climate.
What role did women play in Victorian society?
In Victorian society, women's roles were largely domestic, focused on family and home.
What kind of literature is associated with the Victorian era?
Victorian literature often focused on social and moral issues, reflecting the era's strict social codes.
Were both periods named after monarchs?
Yes, Edwardian is named after King Edward VII, and Victorian is named after Queen Victoria.
How did architecture differ between the two eras?
Edwardian architecture was generally airier and simpler, while Victorian architecture was more ornate.
Was the Edwardian era longer than the Victorian era?
No, the Edwardian era was much shorter, lasting only from 1901 to 1910.
What was the economic situation like during the Victorian era?
The Victorian era was marked by industrial expansion and the growth of the British Empire, contributing to economic prosperity.
Are Edwardian and Victorian furniture styles similar?
While both are ornate compared to modern styles, Victorian furniture is generally more elaborate, and Edwardian furniture is lighter and less imposing.
Is Edwardian style relevant today?
Edwardian style, particularly in fashion and architecture, continues to influence modern designs.
How did family life differ between the two periods?
Victorian family life was more rigid and centered around strict moral codes, whereas Edwardian families began to embrace more progressive views.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
