Bronte sisters History Timeline and Biographies

1816

The Birth of the Bronte Sisters

Charlotte Bronte was born on April 21, 1816, followed by Emily on July 30, 1818, and Anne on January 17, 1820, in Thornton, England. The Bronte sisters were raised in a creative environment that fostered their early interest in writing.

1824

The Loss of Their Mother

The Bronte sisters faced tragedy early in life when their mother, Maria Bronte, died of cancer. This loss had a profound impact on their upbringing and later influenced their literary themes of loss and isolation.

1836

Publication of Poems by Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell

In 1836, the Bronte sisters published a collection of poetry under the pseudonyms Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell. This marked their first foray into the literary world, showcasing their talent and desire to be recognized as serious writers.

1847

Publication of "Jane Eyre" and "Wuthering Heights"

Charlotte's "Jane Eyre" and Emily's "Wuthering Heights" were published in 1847, both receiving critical acclaim. These novels highlighted the Bronte sisters' unique voices and exploration of complex characters and themes.

1848

Tragedy Strikes: Death of Branwell and Emily

The Bronte sisters faced immense personal tragedy in 1848 when their brother Branwell died of alcoholism, followed by Emily's death from tuberculosis later that year. These losses deeply affected Charlotte and Anne, impacting their subsequent works.

1849

Publication of "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall"

Anne Bronte's "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall" was published in 1849, addressing issues of women's rights and societal constraints. This novel further established the Bronte sisters as important voices in literature, particularly in discussions about gender.

1854

Charlotte's "Shirley" Published

In 1854, Charlotte Bronte published "Shirley," a novel set during the industrial revolution that explored themes of class and gender. This work showcased her evolving literary style and her commitment to social issues.

1857

Charlotte's "Villette" Published

Charlotte Bronte's "Villette" was published in 1857, further solidifying her reputation as a leading novelist of her time. The novel delves into themes of love, isolation, and identity, reflecting her own struggles and experiences.

1859

Anne's "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall" Gains Recognition

Although published earlier, Anne Bronte's "The Tenant of Wildfell Hall" began to gain recognition in 1859, as readers and critics started to appreciate its bold themes and critique of societal norms regarding women.

1861

Death of Charlotte Bronte

Charlotte Bronte passed away on March 31, 1855, after a brief illness. Her death marked the end of the Bronte sisters' literary legacy, but her works continued to influence generations of writers and readers.

1890

Posthumous Publication of Bronte Sisters' Works

The late 19th century saw the posthumous publication of various works by the Bronte sisters, including their letters and unfinished manuscripts, allowing readers to gain deeper insight into their lives and creative processes.

1920s

Revival of Interest in the Bronte Sisters' Works

The 1920s experienced a revival of interest in the Bronte sisters' works, leading to new editions and adaptations of their novels, as well as academic studies exploring their contributions to literature.

1990s

Bronte Sisters' Legacy in Popular Culture

The 1990s saw the Bronte sisters' works adapted into numerous films, television series, and stage productions, further cementing their status as literary icons and introducing their stories to new audiences.

2020

Celebration of the Bronte Sisters' Bicentenary Birthdays

In 2020, various events and publications celebrated the bicentenary of the Bronte sisters' births, highlighting their enduring legacy and impact on literature, as well as their relevance in contemporary discussions about gender and creativity.

2024

Continued Scholarship on the Bronte Sisters

As of 2024, scholarship on the Bronte sisters continues to thrive, with new research exploring their lives, works, and influence on modern literature, ensuring their stories and contributions remain relevant in today's literary landscape.