The Victorians had a bit of a thing for death—like, a big thing. They weren’t just aware of their mortality; they practically embraced it with open arms and a carefully crafted catchphrase: Memento Mori, which means "Remember, you must die." Cheery, right? But to the Victorians, this wasn’t just about being grim—it was a lifestyle choice.

Victorian homes were filled with reminders that everyone, at some point, had to punch their ticket to the great beyond. Jewelry made from the hair of a loved one who had passed on? Perfect. Photos of dearly departed relatives posed as if they were just napping? Of course. They even had clocks that prominently featured Memento Mori as a constant reminder that time was ticking away—because nothing says "enjoy your afternoon tea" like staring mortality in the face.

The Victorians believed that keeping death in mind would make them live better lives. It wasn’t all morbid fascination; it was about reflection, living a moral life, and making sure that when the Grim Reaper did finally come calling, you’d at least be prepared—and maybe have a really nice portrait for your family to remember you by.

Graveyards weren’t places to be avoided; they were picnic spots, a perfect Sunday outing where you could wander through the tombstones, read the inscriptions, and contemplate the fleeting nature of existence. Death was, quite literally, a part of life, and the Victorians made sure they never forgot it.