Retrospection and Introspection

by Mary Baker Eddy

"Retrospection and Introspection" by Mary Baker Eddy is an autobiographical work written in the late 19th century. The book reflects on the author’s personal life and spiritual journey, intertwined with her philosophical and theological principles. It offers insights into her upbringing, family heritage, and the development of Christian Science, a religious movement she founded. At the start of the memoir, the author recalls her ancestral roots and the influential figures within her family, such as her grandparents and parents, whose values shaped her early life. She describes significant memories from her childhood, including experiences that informed her spiritual beliefs and the struggles she faced with established religious doctrines. The opening portion sets the stage for her later development of Christian Science, illustrating how her early encounters with faith and thought paved the way for her philosophical discoveries and the foundation of her healing practices.