Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Robert Browning are both remembered and revered for their contributions to English literature and poetry, and their love story is also celebrated. After all, it’s Elizabeth who wrote the immortal words “How do I love thee? Let me count the ways” …

The tale of their courtship and marriage is a real-life Victorian romance that includes love letters, an elopement, and the Italian adventure of a lifetime.

The two met in 1845 and eloped the following year. They married on September 12, 1846, much to the disapproval of Elizabeth’s father, who disowned her.

 
About Elizabeth Barrett

Elizabeth Barrett was born in 1806 and enjoyed a privileged childhood growing up in a country house in Worcestershire, England. When she was fifteen, she developed a serious illness that may have been related to a spinal injury, and had lingering health issues throughout her life, possibly as a result.

Her love poems, including Sonnets from the Portuguese and Aurora Leigh, are the best know among her body of highly respected work. Here is a brief biography of Elizabeth Barrett Browning.

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Robert Browning
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About Robert Browning

Robert Browning was born in London in 1812. He attended the University of London for one semester and lived with his parents until he was in his mid-30s. In addition to several long poems, most of his plays were written during this early period of his life.

His early works were published with funding from his family. Read More→