Madness has been frequently represented in English literature since it was an issue concerning not only medical practitioners and social control but also the role of women in society and the exertion of men’s will over wives, sisters, daughters and other female relatives. In this paper, the condition of nineteenth century women confined to the madhouses or asylums is discussed in relation to the different representations made by two Victorian novelists, Wilkie Collins and Mary Elizabeth Braddon, and a contemporary writer, Sarah Waters. Theories of insanity and the motives of women abuse are widely introduced followed by some reflections on the representation of abuse in three novels: The Women in White, Lady Audley’s Secret and Fingersmith. A substantial difference between the first two novels and the modern one is the portrayal of sexual orientation, masochism and pornography.

The Victorian Period is a remarkable period in the history of literature as a lot of transformations took place in this era. The Victorian Period spaned from 1837 to 1901 and it is a remarkable era that left an indelible mark on the fabric of society, art, and literature. This paper delves into the rich precepts of the Victorian era, exploring its distinctive characteristics, social dynamics, and artistic expressions. This study commences with an overview of the historical and socio-political context of the Victorian Period, highlighting the reign of Queen Victoria and the significant events that shaped the era. It also examines how these influences set the stage for the unique values, beliefs, and attitudes that permeated the Victorian society. A central focus of this study is the exploration of the Victorian social hierarchy, with its rigid class structure and strict moral codes. This era was also marked by a flourishing artistic and literary scene that produced a wealth of literary masterpieces. In exploring the works of prominent Victorian authors such as Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, and the Brontë sisters, it equally explores the thematic underpinnings of their novels, such as social inequality, love, morality, and the changing dynamics of the Victorian society. Additionally, we will discuss the rise of serialized fiction and the influence of Victorian literature on contemporary storytelling. Lastly, this paper sheds light on the legacy of the Victorian Period, exploring its enduring impact on subsequent generations. It also discusses how Victorian ideals and sensibilities continue to shape modern society, art, and literature, as well as their resonance in contemporary discussions on gender, class, and societal norms.

The emotional needs of a child who has fluency disorder (stammering) is as important if not more important than the educational development. Many parents are concerned so much especially when they are not able to deal with the problem of fluency disorder in their children. Often times, this causes embarrassment in homes. Children who stammer are easily aggressive and this may be due to the fact that they find it difficult to express their views on a particular issue or occasion. This situation can also be frustrating and causes them to feel withdrawn and not to socialize, as it feels so terrible knowing what to say, but cannot express it the way it ought to be said due to some speech challenges. It is on that note that this research was carried out, to investigate the psycho-social effects of stuttering/stammering in the affected children as well as proffer some solutions or make some suggestions that will go a long way in helping to improve the lives of the children affected with stuttering.