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Mary Shelley

Introduction

Mary Shelley was born on August 30, 1797, in London, England. Her father, William Godwin, was a philosopher and writer who had been exiled from France for his political views. Mary's mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, was a pioneering feminist writer whose ideas about women's rights would later influence Shelley's work.

Key Facts

  • Birth and Family: Mary Shelley was born out of wedlock to William Godwin (the same father as her mother) and Fanny Imlay, an American prostitute.
  • Education: She attended various boarding schools and eventually became a governess before marrying Percy Bysshe Shelley in 1814.
  • Marriage and Death: Mary gave birth to four children with Percy but was imprisoned for five years for poisoning his friend, Lord Byron. She died on February 1, 1851.

Historical Context

Mary Shelley's life was marked by her experiences as a woman of intellect and imagination in a patriarchal society. Her father had been a key figure in the intellectual circle of William Godwin, which included influential thinkers like Mary Wollstonecraft. As a result, Mary grew up surrounded by ideas about women's rights and intellectual pursuits.

Mary Shelley's work was also influenced by her experiences as an outsider within her own family. She was known to have been critical of her father's political views and his relationships with others. This sense of isolation could have contributed to her writing career.

Significant Contributions

  • Frankenstein: Mary Shelley is best known for writing the novel "Frankenstein," which explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the dangers of unchecked ambition.
  • Themes and Motifs: Her work often explored ideas about morality, ethics, and the human condition. She also experimented with different narrative structures, incorporating elements of science fiction and romance into her stories.

Notable Attractions

  • The Villa Diodati: Mary Shelley stayed at this Swiss chalet in 1816 with her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron during a stormy night that inspired the creation of "Frankenstein."
  • London Society: She was a member of London's intellectual circle, which included writers like Leigh Hunt and Robert Southey. This group influenced her writing and provided a supportive environment for her work.
  • Literary Legacy: Mary Shelley's writing has had a lasting impact on literature, influencing authors such as Bram Stoker (of "Dr

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