Elizabeth Barrett Browning 1806- 1861

Poetry in Translation

Elizabeth Barrett, born March 6, 1806 was privately tutored and absorbed Greek and Latin classical authors who inspired her to write poetry at a very young age.

Her family moved to 50 Wimpole Street, London in the 1830's and she published several works; but the death of her brother badly affected her already delicate health and she became a recluse at home for 5 years. She was introduced to Robert Browning, however, in whom she found great sympathy for her works. They married in 1846 against strong parental objection after which she lived with Robert in Italy giving birth to a son, Pen, in 1849.

Encouraged by Robert, she wrote prolifically, but her fragile health declined and she died at Florence in 1861.