Vivienne Haigh-Wood Eliot

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Vivienne Haigh-Wood Eliot, seated, 1920 (cropped)

Vivienne Haigh-Wood Eliot (28 May 1888 – 22 January 1947) was an English governess and writer, best known for her marriage to the poet T. S. Eliot. Her life and relationship with Eliot have been the subject of much scholarly interest and literary analysis.

Early Life

Vivienne Haigh-Wood was born in Bury, Lancashire, England. She was the daughter of Rose Esther Robinson and Charles Haigh-Wood, a successful artist. Vivienne had a privileged upbringing and was educated at home by governesses before attending schools in Paris and London.

Marriage to T. S. Eliot

Vivienne met T. S. Eliot in 1915, and they married on 26 June of the same year. Their marriage was tumultuous and has been described as deeply troubled. Vivienne suffered from various health issues, including mental illness, which significantly impacted their relationship. Despite their difficulties, Vivienne played a crucial role in Eliot's life and work, providing inspiration for some of his most famous poems, including "The Waste Land."

Health Issues and Later Life

Vivienne's health continued to deteriorate throughout her life. She was diagnosed with a range of conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In 1938, she was committed to Northumberland House, a mental institution, where she remained until her death in 1947.

Legacy

Vivienne Haigh-Wood Eliot's life has been the subject of numerous biographies and studies. Her marriage to T. S. Eliot has been explored in various literary works, including the play "Tom & Viv" by Michael Hastings and the subsequent film adaptation. Her influence on Eliot's work and her own contributions to literature continue to be recognized and studied.

See Also

• T. S. Eliot
• The Waste Land
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Tom & Viv