Biography of Mary Shelley:
Mary Shelley (1797-1851) was an English writer, best known for her novel “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus,” which is considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction.
Here’s an overview of her life and contributions:
Early Life and Education:
Birth: Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin was born on August 30, 1797, in London, England.
Parentage: She was the daughter of philosopher and political writer William Godwin and feminist philosopher and writer Mary Wollstonecraft.
Tragic Childhood: Mary’s mother died shortly after her birth, and she was raised by her father and stepmother. Her father provided her with access to his extensive library, fostering her love for literature.
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| Biography Of Mary Shelley |
Relationship with Percy Bysshe Shelley:
Romantic Involvement: Mary fell in love with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, who was a devoted follower of her father’s philosophical ideas. They began a romantic relationship when she was just 16 years old.
Summer in Geneva: In 1816, Mary, Percy Shelley, and Lord Byron spent a summer near Lake Geneva in Switzerland. During this time, Mary conceived the idea for her famous novel “Frankenstein.”
Writing “Frankenstein”:
Creation of the Novel: The idea for “Frankenstein” emerged during a storytelling competition among Mary, Percy Shelley, Lord Byron, and John Polidori. Influenced by scientific discussions of the time, Mary wrote the novel, which explores themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of scientific experimentation.
Publication: “Frankenstein” was published anonymously in 1818. It was later revealed that Mary Shelley was the author.
Later Life and Literary Career:
Personal Tragedies: Mary faced personal tragedies, including the deaths of her children and Percy Shelley. These losses deeply affected her life and work.
Literary Works: Mary Shelley wrote several other novels, including “Mathilda,” “Valperga,” and “The Last Man.” She also edited and promoted the works of her late husband.
Death: Mary Shelley died on February 1, 1851, at the age of 53, in London, England.
Legacy:
Literary Influence: “Frankenstein” has become a classic of English literature and has inspired numerous adaptations in various media, including films, plays, and novels.
Feminist Icon: Mary Shelley is also celebrated for her contributions to feminist literature, exploring themes of identity, power, and societal expectations in her works.
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” continues to captivate readers and remains a significant work in the realm of speculative fiction, exploring the ethical implications of scientific advancements and the boundaries between humanity and technology.