Robert Louis Stevenson lived in the Victorian era which describes a period of British history that lasted from 1837 to 1901, during the reign of Queen Victoria. Victorian society was characterized by many changes and developments, including urbanization, industrialization and many important social and cultural aspects. Some features of Victorian society that may be relevant to Stevenson's life and work include:
1. Rapid urbanization: This period saw a significant growth of cities and towns in Britain, as people moved from rural areas in search of work in industries. This led to overcrowding and poor living conditions for many people, which became significant social issues.
2. Industrialization: Britain was the first country to undergo industrialization, which brought major technological advancements, such as steam engines, railways, and factories. This created new opportunities for economic growth and social change, but also challenges related to working conditions and income equality.
3. Social inequality: The Victorian era had strict social hierarchies and class divisions, with a clear distinction between the upper, middle and lower classes. This influenced various aspects of society, including education, job opportunities, and social interactions.
4. Moral and religious values: The era was known for its strong religious beliefs and moral principles, particularly emphasizing the importance of hard work, respectability, and religious devotion. This influenced many aspects of daily life, as well as literature and arts.
5. Intellectual and artistic movements: The Victorian period saw the rise of many important intellectual and artistic movements, such as Romanticism, Gothic Revival, and Pre-Raphaelitism. These movements had a significant influence on literature, arts and culture of the time, and shaped the artistic output of many writers and artists, including Stevenson.
6. Exploration and colonial expansion: The Victorian era was also marked by extensive exploration and colonial expansion. Britain acquired many colonies around the world, including India, Australia and parts of Africa. This had a profound impact on British culture and society, inspiring literature, travel writing, and shaping global politics.
Overall, Victorian society was a complex and diverse period of history that influenced various aspects of Stevenson's life, ideas, and literary work.