The Public Life of Queen Victoria

Royal ceremonies and family decisions meet in John McGilchrist's account of Queen Victoria's public life. The biography begins with her Saxon ancestry, then traces her childhood, education, accession and marriage to Prince Albert. Its chapters bring together court occasions, visits around Britain and abroad, and the political arrangements surrounding the monarchy. McGilchrist writes with open admiration for the Queen and her family, making the book a record of how their virtues were presented to readers.

The account of Victoria announcing her intended marriage shows the practical business behind a royal celebration. Lord Melbourne advises her, the Privy Council hears her declaration, and questions arise over Albert's allowance and future position. Elsewhere, the contents point to the coronation, industrial exhibitions and Highland life. Readers interested in royal biography can follow the connections between household relationships, state duties and public ceremony through this sympathetic account.