Uncovering the Untold Story of Mary Shelley’s Life: A Biographical Account
Mary Shelley is remembered as one of the most prominent authors of the 19th century, the creator of the iconic novel Frankenstein, and the wife of renowned poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. However, Mary Shelley’s life was much more than being an author’s wife, and her story is one that is often ignored. This article aims to provide an in-depth biographical account of the life of Mary Shelley, one that uncovers the untold story of her life.
Early Life and Family Background
Mary Shelley was born on August 30, 1797, in Somers Town, London, England. She was the daughter of the political philosopher William Godwin and feminist philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft, who wrote the famous work “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman.” Sadly, Wollstonecraft died several days after Mary’s birth, leaving her to be raised by her father and stepmother.
Growing up, Mary was deeply influenced by her father’s beliefs, which included radicalism and atheism, and she was also surrounded by intellectuals, including Percy Bysshe Shelley, who would later become her husband. At age 16, Mary eloped with Percy Shelley and began a tumultuous yet passionate relationship.
The Writing of Frankenstein and the Unfortunate Losses
In 1816, while visiting a friend’s villa in Switzerland, Mary began writing what would become her masterpiece, Frankenstein. The novel was published in 1818 and was met with mixed reviews but soon became a classic.
Sadly, Mary experienced many losses in her personal life. She lost her mother at birth, then at the young age of 24, her husband died in a boating accident, leaving Mary to take care of their child alone. She also lost three of her four children to illness in their infancy.
Mary Shelley’s Legacy, Influence, and Death
Despite facing immense grief, Mary Shelley’s legacy spanned far beyond her tragic life. She was a pioneering female author who wrote during a time when women were not encouraged to express themselves creatively. Her work explored themes of creation and the human condition and tackled issues of gender and politics.
Mary Shelley left behind a significant impact on the literary world, and her influence can be seen in many modern works. She died on February 1, 1851, from a suspected brain tumor. Mary’s legacy and works live on and remain celebrated in modern times.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mary Shelley’s life is one that was marked by tragedy and loss, but also by creativity and intellectual exploration. Her story is one of resilience and courage, and her work remains an important part of literary history. As we uncover the untold story of Mary Shelley’s life, we can learn from her legacy and be inspired by her accomplishments and determination.
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