Authored several novels, including Valperga, Perkin Warbeck, The Last Man, Lodore, and Falkner. Edited and promoted the works of my husband Percy Bysshe Shelley.
Mary Wollstone Shelley
Novelist and Editor, Early Science Fiction Pioneer, Women’s Rights Advocate
A renowned English novelist, best known for my novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, which is considered an early example of science fiction.
I also edited and promoted the works of my husband, Romantic poet and philosopher Percy Bysshe Shelley.
My father was the political philosopher William Godwin, and my mother was the women’s rights advocate Mary Wollstonecraft.
Experience
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Women’s Rights Advocate, Self-employed (1797-1851)
I inherited my mother’s passion for women’s rights and was a strong advocate for gender equality throughout my life. My works often argue that cooperation and sympathy, particularly as practiced by women in the family, were the ways to reform civil society.
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Travel Writer, Self-employed (1844-1846)
Authored the travel book Rambles in Germany and Italy, which provides a vivid description of my travels through Europe.
Education
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Self educated
Self-educated by my father, William Godwin, who provided me with a rich if informal education, encouraging me to adhere to his own anarchist political theories.
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Informal education
Informal education in literature, politics, and philosophy from my parents and the intellectual circle they associated with.
Skills
Interests
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Literature
Passionate about reading and writing novels, particularly in the Gothic and historical genres.
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Philosophy
Keen interest in political philosophy and women’s rights.
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Travel
Enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures.
