The classics with Klaus Rothstein: Victoria Benedictsson
ANNUAL PASS ONLY – Klaus Rothstein once again explores original materials from Royal Danish Library. This time, we take a closer look at Victoria Benedictsson as a letter writer.
We continue Diamond Club’s series of popular lectures, in which critic Klaus Rothstein delves into the rich treasure trove of original manuscripts by leading authors held by Royal Danish Library. This spring, the focus is on the author as a letter writer. The audience will have a unique opportunity to get up close to original material – naturally, according to the principle: look, but do not touch.
The story of Victoria Benedictsson (1850-88) is a story of determination, defiance, triumph and tragedy: a short life of just 38 years, a brief literary career comprising only four books, a violent suicide at the end, and an enduring legacy. She was one of the most important writers of the 1880s.
Her work is particularly known for its sharp criticism of women’s lack of rights and of the traditional institution of marriage.
Her most famous works include:
1) Pengar (Money), her undisputed masterpiece and breakthrough novel
2) Fru Marianne (Mrs. Marianne), a psychological novel
3) Från Skåne (From Skåne), her debut collection of short stories
4) Efterlämnade dagböcker (Posthumous Diaries), her unfiltered diaries
In this lecture, Klaus Rothstein introduces Victoria Benedictsson through original manuscripts written in her own hand and preserved by Royal Danish Library.
