Mary Shelley, born on August 30, 1797 in London, England, was the daughter of two prominent writers. Her father, William Godwin, was a philosopher, while her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, was a feminist. Sadly, Mary never got the chance to know her mother, as she passed away just ten days after giving birth.
Despite this tragedy, Mary was raised surrounded by literature and intellectual discussions. She was tutored by a governess and also attended a boarding school for a period of time during her youth.
When Mary was seventeen years old, she met Percy Shelley, a poet and already-married man, who would become not only her future husband but also her literary inspiration. Their relationship was scandalous at the time, but the couple did not let societal norms stand in the way of their love for each other.
One fateful summer, Mary, Percy, and their friend Lord Byron engaged in a competition to see who could write the scariest ghost story. It was during this contest that Mary conceived the idea for her most famous work, Frankenstein. This Gothic novel, first published in 1818, would go on to become a classic of English literature.
While Frankenstein brought Mary Shelley fame and recognition, she was a prolific writer in her own right. Some of her lesser-known works include novels such as Valperga, Perkin Warbeck, and The Last Man. Despite her talent, Mary was primarily associated with Frankenstein until the 1970s, when a renewed interest in her other writings emerged.
In addition to her literary accomplishments, Mary Shelley's personal life was marked by tragedy and scandal. After bearing an illegitimate child with Percy Shelley, the couple eventually married. However, their marriage was marred by infidelity and heartbreak, including the deaths of several children.
Despite these challenges, Mary continued to write and publish throughout her lifetime. She passed away on February 1, 1851 in London, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest Gothic novelists of all time.
Mary Shelley's influence on the literary landscape cannot be overstated. Her groundbreaking work, Frankenstein, has inspired countless adaptations in various forms of media, from film to theatre to literature. Her exploration of the ethical and moral implications of scientific advancements continues to resonate with audiences centuries after its publication.
Today, Mary Shelley is remembered not only for her contribution to the Gothic genre but also for her resilience in the face of personal hardship. Her life and work serve as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the human spirit.