The Theme of Crisis of Religion in the Poetry of Robert Browning

Abstract

This paper explores the theme of the crisis of religion in the poetry of Robert Browning, a prominent Victorianpoet whose works often grapple with the tensions between faith, doubt, and the evolving religious consciousness of his time. In an era marked by scientific advancements, industrialization, and philosophical skepticism, Browning’s poetry reflects a deep engagement with the spiritual dilemmas faced by individuals caught between traditional religious beliefs and modern uncertainties. This paper shall throw light on his dialogue with the main social dilemmas of his time through the concepts of the semiosphere by Juri Lotman and the dialogism of Mikhail Bakhtin. This will be done through close readings of key poems such as "Caliban upon Setebos," "An Epistle Containing the Strange Medical Experience of Karshish, the Arab Physician," and "Death in the Desert." This paper examines Browning’s nuanced portrayal of characters who struggle with existential questions about divine justice, the nature of God, and the role of faith in a changing world. By analyzing Browning's dramatic monologue, this study highlights how his poetry encapsulates the Victorian crisis of faith, offering insights into the broader cultural and intellectual currents of his time. Finally, it also provides insights into the relevance of Browning’s poetry in today’s world of crisis of morality and technological advancement.