07/29/2025
In 19th-century England, Elizabeth Barrett was a gifted poet whose works deeply moved many, but her life was marked by fragile health and a strict father. Isolated in her London home, she found comfort in writing, unaware that her words would lead her to one of the most legendary love stories of all time ๐๐.
It all began in 1845 when she received a letter of admiration from another young poet, Robert Browning. Their correspondence soon grew into an intimate exchange of thoughts and emotions ๐โจ. Even though they hadn't met in person yet, they were already deeply connected emotionally and intellectually ๐๐.
Their love blossomed in secrecy, as Elizabeth's father, a very controlling man, had imposed a strict rule on his children: none of them could marry ๐. His control over Elizabeth was absolute, and her frail health kept her confined at home, away from social life and the world outside ๐ก๐ญ. However, neither her father's strictness nor her health issues were enough to stop the bond that formed between her and Robert.
When they finally met in person, their love only grew stronger ๐น. Robert secretly visited Elizabeth, encouraging her to break free from the chains that kept her in seclusion ๐๏ธ. Together, they planned a secret wedding, defying society's expectations and her father's authority.
On September 12, 1846, Elizabeth and Robert were married at St. Marylebone Church, without her father's consent. This act of courage marked a new chapter in their lives ๐. Soon after, Elizabeth made the boldest decision of her life: she left her home forever and ran away to Italy with her beloved and her faithful maid, Wilson ๐๏ธ๐.
Elizabeth's father, enraged by what he saw as betrayal, disinherited her ๐. However, Elizabeth found a new life in Florence, full of love and freedom ๐๏ธ๐. The warmer climate improved her health, and she enjoyed years of happiness and creativity alongside Robert ๐โ๏ธ. In Italy, they lived surrounded by art and beauty, creating a life that reflected their deep and enduring love.
Inspired by her love for Robert, Elizabeth wrote "Sonnets from the Portuguese", one of the most beautiful collections of romantic poetry in literature ๐โค๏ธ. In it, she dedicated to Robert her most famous poem:
"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."
This poem has become a symbol of their unbreakable love and has endured through the years as one of the most iconic in world literature ๐๐.
The Browning story transcended their time, becoming a symbol of love that overcomes obstacles, prohibitions, and boundaries ๐๐. Their romance continues to inspire poets, dreamers, and lovers around the world ๐นโจ, reminding us that true love knows no limits.
Source: "Elizabeth Barrett Browning: A Biography" by Fiona Sampson..
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