Mary Wollstonecraft
Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) was an English writer and philosopher, a pioneering advocate for women's rights and one of the founding figures of feminism. Her bold, passionate arguments for the education and equality of women were centuries ahead of their time and remain foundational texts of feminist thought.
Her most famous work, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, argued that women are not naturally inferior to men but appear so only because they are denied education, and called for equal rational and moral development. She also wrote novels, a history of the French Revolution, travel writing, and works on education.
Wollstonecraft led a bold, unconventional life and died at 38, shortly after giving birth to her daughter Mary — who would grow up to write Frankenstein. Her ideas laid the groundwork for the women's movements that followed.
Our editions present her powerful writing clearly for modern readers. Read a selection free, and read or listen with a membership.
Mary Wollstonecraft in the library · 4 works
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Mary
The Love Letters of Mary Wollstonecraft to Gilbert Imlay
Audiobooks by Mary Wollstonecraft
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Frequently asked questions about Mary Wollstonecraft
What did Mary Wollstonecraft write?
Wollstonecraft's most famous work is A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. She also wrote A Vindication of the Rights of Men, the novels Mary and the unfinished Maria, a history of the French Revolution, and Thoughts on the Education of Daughters. The Vindication of the Rights of Woman is her landmark, foundational text.
What is A Vindication of the Rights of Woman about?
Published in 1792, it argues that women only appear less capable than men because they are denied a proper education, and it makes a passionate case for equal rational, moral, and educational opportunity. It challenged the assumptions of its age and is regarded as one of the earliest and most important works of feminist philosophy. Its call for women's equality still resonates.
Why is Mary Wollstonecraft important?
She was one of the first writers to argue systematically for the equality and education of women, laying the intellectual groundwork for later feminist movements. Her ideas were radical for the 18th century and remain foundational today. She is widely regarded as a founding figure of modern feminism.
Was she related to Mary Shelley?
Yes — Mary Wollstonecraft was the mother of Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein. Wollstonecraft died just days after giving birth to her, so the two never knew each other, but her writings and reputation profoundly shaped her daughter's life and work. Mary Shelley's father was the philosopher William Godwin.
Where should I start with Wollstonecraft?
A Vindication of the Rights of Woman is her essential and most influential work, and the natural place to begin. Her letters and travel writing offer a more personal, accessible entry to her mind and vivid character. Starting with the Vindication gives the clearest sense of her ideas.
When did Mary Wollstonecraft live?
Wollstonecraft lived from 1759 to 1797, during the Enlightenment and the era of the French Revolution, which she witnessed and wrote about. She published A Vindication of the Rights of Woman in 1792 and died at 38 shortly after giving birth to her daughter Mary.
Where can I read Mary Wollstonecraft for free?
Wollstonecraft's works are in the public domain and freely available. Her original 18th-century prose is formal. Here you can read a selection free in clear modern English, and read or listen with a membership.
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