Early Life and Education
Mary McCarthy was born on June 21, 1912, in Seattle, Washington. She was raised in a Catholic household, but she rebelled against her upbringing and became an atheist. McCarthy attended Vassar College in New York, where she graduated in 1933. It was during her time at Vassar that she began to develop her passion for literature and writing.
Marriage and Family
McCarthy was married to fellow author and social critic, Edmund Wilson, in the late 1930s and early 1940s. However, their marriage ended in divorce. She went on to marry three more times, to Harald Johnsrud, Bowden Broadwater, and James West. Despite her rocky personal life, McCarthy continued to focus on her writing and activism.
Career in Writing
McCarthy gained recognition as a prominent cultural critic in the 1940s and '50s. She published several notable works, including The Oasis (1949), Cast a Cold Eye (1950), and A Charmed Life (1955). Her writing often explored themes of social and political commentary. McCarthy was also a contributor to renowned publications such as The New York Review of Books and Harper's Magazine.
Activism and Controversy
McCarthy was known for her political activism and Communist sympathies. She was vocal in her criticism of Senator Joseph McCarthy and his anti-Communist rhetoric. Mary McCarthy's outspoken views often landed her in hot water, but she remained steadfast in her beliefs and continued to advocate for social justice.
Awards and Recognition
In 1984, Mary McCarthy was awarded both the National Medal for Literature and the Edward MacDowell Medal in recognition of her contributions to the literary world. Despite facing criticism and controversy throughout her career, McCarthy's work has left a lasting impact on the world of literature and cultural criticism.
Legacy
Mary McCarthy's legacy as a writer and cultural critic continues to be celebrated today. Her bold and uncompromising voice in both her writing and activism has inspired generations of thinkers and writers. Though she may have faced challenges and controversies in her lifetime, Mary McCarthy's enduring influence on literature is undeniable.