Brontë Sisters’ Memorial Corrected After 80 Years
The Brontë sisters’ memorial in Westminster Abbey has finally received a correction more than 80 years after its installation, restoring the diaereses – the two dots over the ‘e’ in their surname – to the commemorative stone. The correction means the name is now displayed as “Brontë” rather than “Bront,” reflecting the correct pronunciation, “brontay.” This change was initiated after Brontë historian Sharon Wright, who edits the Brontë Society Gazette, highlighted the omission to the Dean of Westminster, David Hoyle.
In a UK-focused perspective, the correction of this historic oversight resonates deeply, particularly in literary circles. The Brontë sisters—Charlotte, Emily, and Anne—are celebrated British novelists whose works like “Jane Eyre,” “Wuthering Heights,” and “The Tenant of Wildfell Hall” have left an indelible mark on English literature. The memorial, located in Poets’ Corner of Westminster Abbey, was originally erected in October 1939, just after the onset of World War II. During its installation, the diaereses were mistakenly left out, an error that has now been rectified after decades of being overlooked.
The restored stone tablet now honours the legacy of the Brontës with the respect they deserve. The sisters were born and raised on the Yorkshire moors, a landscape that greatly influenced their writing, and each died tragically young, all before the age of 40. Their father, Patrick Brontë, an Irish clergyman, is believed to have changed the family name from Brunty or Prunty to Brontë after moving to England. The corrected memorial is a fitting tribute, ensuring that their name is correctly represented in one of the UK’s most prestigious cultural sites.
Rebecca Yorke, director of the Brontë Society, expressed her satisfaction with the correction, noting that it is “entirely appropriate that their name is spelled correctly on their memorial.” This act of respect acknowledges the global admiration for the Brontë sisters and their literary contributions.
For those interested in literary heritage, the corrected Brontë sisters’ memorial is a reminder of the importance of accuracy in preserving cultural history. This unique update shows how even small details matter in honouring the legacy of those who have significantly influenced our cultural landscape.
For more information about Britain’s literary heritage, visit the British Library’s Discovering Literature page for more in-depth resources and insights.
To explore more about British literary heritage, including articles on iconic authors, historic sites, and contemporary literature, visit the Literature section on EyeOnLondon. Stay connected for regular updates and in-depth features on the UK’s literary tradition.
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