Margaret Oliphant

Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant, known professionally as Mrs. Oliphant, was a prolific Scottish novelist, biographer, and critic, born on April 4, 1828, in Wallyford, East Lothian. Her literary career spanned over a half-century, during which she penned more than 120 works encompassing domestic realism, historical fiction, and tales of the supernatural. A prominent figure in Victorian literature, Mrs. Oliphant is well-remembered for the rich portrayal of character and society in her narratives. Her novel 'Brownlows' is a testament to her narrative prowess, presenting a keen reflection on social issues and morality through the lives and trials of its titular family. Mrs. Oliphant's literary style is marked by a blend of wit and keen observation, enabling her to convey the subtleties of middle-class life. She was a contemporary to Charles Dickens and shared with him a concern for the portrayal of family and social dynamics, though her perspective was distinctively shaped by her experience as a woman and a widow tasked with supporting her children after the death of her husband in 1859. Mrs. Oliphant dynamically engaged with Victorian themes, which reflected the complexities of her personal life. Oliphant passed away on June 25, 1897, leaving behind a legacy as a resilient author whose work continues to offer insights into 19th-century British literature and society.