The Goblin Market poemis a complex Victorian narrative exploring... Show more
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20 Dec 2025
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Goblin Market: Analysis and Themes
maria
@maria_reji
1 / 7
Page 1: Introduction to the Narrative
The opening introduces the central conflict of the Goblin Market analysis and themes, establishing the fairy tale setting and main characters. Laura's fateful decision to trade her golden hair for forbidden fruit sets the tragic events in motion.
Highlight: The poem immediately establishes its fairy tale credentials while hinting at darker themes.
Quote: "Laura exchanges a lock of her golden hair for the chance taste the goblins' enchanted 'fruit forbidden'"
Page 2: Narrative Structure and Interpretations
The page explores the poem's dual nature as both a children's tale and a complex social commentary. Despite Rossetti's public insistence on its status as children's literature, private correspondence reveals deeper intentions.
Definition: The ballad-like narrative structure creates a familiar storytelling format while concealing more complex themes.
Highlight: The market's constant availability suggests deeper symbolic meaning beyond a simple marketplace.
Page 3: Historical Context and Symbolism
This section reveals Rossetti's social work background and its influence on the poem's themes. The use of animal imagery for the goblins serves multiple symbolic purposes.
Example: Rossetti's volunteer work at a women's refuge directly influenced her portrayal of sisterly bonds.
Vocabulary: Anglican Sisterhoods - religious communities of women dedicated to charitable work in Victorian England.
Page 4: Victorian Symbolism and Laura's Fall
The significance of hair in Victorian culture and literature is explored, along with the sexual symbolism in Laura's encounter with the goblin fruit.
Definition: Hair symbolism in Victorian literature often represented virtue, sexuality, and social status.
Quote: "Hair was a massive cultural commodity in Victorian culture."
Page 5: Sister Dynamics
Explores the complementary roles of Laura and Lizzie, highlighting how their different responses to temptation serve the poem's broader themes.
Highlight: The sisters represent opposing but complementary aspects of Victorian femininity.
Page 6: Masculine Representation
Analyzes the negative portrayal of masculinity through the goblin characters, reflecting Rossetti's social concerns.
Quote: "Probably the most negative of Rossetti's portrayals of men."
Highlight: The poem critiques Victorian double standards regarding gender and morality.
Page 1: Introduction and Context
This opening section establishes the narrative framework and historical context of Christina Rossetti's "Goblin Market". The poem follows sisters Laura and Lizzie's encounter with goblin merchants, leading to Laura's near-fatal taste of forbidden fruit and her eventual salvation through Lizzie's sacrifice.
Definition: The poem follows a temptation-fall-redemption-restoration structure common in Victorian moral tales.
Highlight: Rossetti wrote this while volunteering at St Mary Magdalene Penitentiary, significantly influencing the poem's themes of redemption.
Example: The poem incorporates typical fairy tale elements including magical creatures, moral instruction, and supernatural elements.
Vocabulary: "Fallen women" - Victorian term for women who had transgressed sexual moral codes.
Quote: "Curiosity is bad, don't look outside your world-but you can be rescued by a loving family."
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Most popular content: Christina Rossetti
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Goblin Market: Analysis and Themes
maria
@maria_reji
The Goblin Market poem is a complex Victorian narrative exploring themes of temptation, sisterly love, and redemption through the story of Laura and Lizzie's encounter with mysterious goblin merchants. This masterpiece by Christina Rossetticombines fairy tale elements with deeper... Show more
Page 1: Introduction to the Narrative
The opening introduces the central conflict of the Goblin Market analysis and themes, establishing the fairy tale setting and main characters. Laura's fateful decision to trade her golden hair for forbidden fruit sets the tragic events in motion.
Highlight: The poem immediately establishes its fairy tale credentials while hinting at darker themes.
Quote: "Laura exchanges a lock of her golden hair for the chance taste the goblins' enchanted 'fruit forbidden'"
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 2: Narrative Structure and Interpretations
The page explores the poem's dual nature as both a children's tale and a complex social commentary. Despite Rossetti's public insistence on its status as children's literature, private correspondence reveals deeper intentions.
Definition: The ballad-like narrative structure creates a familiar storytelling format while concealing more complex themes.
Highlight: The market's constant availability suggests deeper symbolic meaning beyond a simple marketplace.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 3: Historical Context and Symbolism
This section reveals Rossetti's social work background and its influence on the poem's themes. The use of animal imagery for the goblins serves multiple symbolic purposes.
Example: Rossetti's volunteer work at a women's refuge directly influenced her portrayal of sisterly bonds.
Vocabulary: Anglican Sisterhoods - religious communities of women dedicated to charitable work in Victorian England.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 4: Victorian Symbolism and Laura's Fall
The significance of hair in Victorian culture and literature is explored, along with the sexual symbolism in Laura's encounter with the goblin fruit.
Definition: Hair symbolism in Victorian literature often represented virtue, sexuality, and social status.
Quote: "Hair was a massive cultural commodity in Victorian culture."
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 5: Sister Dynamics
Explores the complementary roles of Laura and Lizzie, highlighting how their different responses to temptation serve the poem's broader themes.
Highlight: The sisters represent opposing but complementary aspects of Victorian femininity.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 6: Masculine Representation
Analyzes the negative portrayal of masculinity through the goblin characters, reflecting Rossetti's social concerns.
Quote: "Probably the most negative of Rossetti's portrayals of men."
Highlight: The poem critiques Victorian double standards regarding gender and morality.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 1: Introduction and Context
This opening section establishes the narrative framework and historical context of Christina Rossetti's "Goblin Market". The poem follows sisters Laura and Lizzie's encounter with goblin merchants, leading to Laura's near-fatal taste of forbidden fruit and her eventual salvation through Lizzie's sacrifice.
Definition: The poem follows a temptation-fall-redemption-restoration structure common in Victorian moral tales.
Highlight: Rossetti wrote this while volunteering at St Mary Magdalene Penitentiary, significantly influencing the poem's themes of redemption.
Example: The poem incorporates typical fairy tale elements including magical creatures, moral instruction, and supernatural elements.
Vocabulary: "Fallen women" - Victorian term for women who had transgressed sexual moral codes.
Quote: "Curiosity is bad, don't look outside your world-but you can be rescued by a loving family."
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content: Christina Rossetti
Most popular content in English Literature
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user