Virginie Loveling

Virginie Loveling (1836-1923) was both a critically acclaimed and a popular author. She started off writing sentimental poetry with her sister Rosalie, but after her sibling’s death in 1875, she switched to more naturalistic novels with tragic undertones. She also wrote novellas, children’s books and essays. As a progressive intellectual, in life as well as in her literary work, Loveling frequently spoke out against the Catholic Church’s dominant role in education and the lack of recognition of women’s achievements.

Photo Collection Letterenhuis, Antwerp