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Authors, English -- 18th century -- Correspondence Books
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Mary Wollstonecraft
The Love Letters of Mary Wollstonecraft to Gilbert Imlay
"The Love Letters of Mary Wollstonecraft to Gilbert Imlay" by Mary Wollstonecraft is a collection of personal correspondence written in the late 18th century. The letters chronicle Wollstonecraft's passionate relationship with Imlay, illustrating her profound emotional struggles and her aspirations for love, family, and personal fulfillment. Wollstonecraft's reflections provide insight into her experiences as a woman navigating the complexities of romance and societal expectations. The opening of the collection establishes the background of Wollstonecraft's life, offering a glimpse into her upbringing and friendships that shaped her character. It details her initial impressions of Imlay, evolving from dislike to deep affection. As the letters unfold, we see her articulate her emotional state, her joys of pregnancy, and her longings for companionship and understanding, often punctuated by moments of despair and uncertainty regarding their relationship. These letters encapsulate not just a romantic narrative but a vivid portrayal of Wollstonecraft's inner life, exemplifying her intelligence and sensitivity, setting the tone for the exploration of her enduring legacy.
Hester Lynch Piozzi
The Intimate Letters of Hester Piozzi and Penelope Pennington, 1788-1821
"The Intimate Letters of Hester Piozzi and Penelope Pennington, 1788-1821" by Piozzi et al. is a collection of historical letters written during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This work provides insight into the lives, thoughts, and social interactions of two prominent women, highlighting the cultural and intellectual milieu of their time. The letters offer a personal glimpse into Hester Piozzi, a notable literary figure and close associate of Samuel Johnson, and her friend Penelope Pennington, showcasing their correspondence and the emotional depth of their relationships. The opening of this collection sets the stage for understanding Mrs. Piozzi's life prior to the correspondence, detailing her background, marriages, and social circle, including her connections with prominent literary figures. It highlights the context of their letters, which begin shortly after Piozzi's second marriage and continue until just before her death. The preface emphasizes the significance of these letters as a candid reflection of Piozzi's witty and charming character, capturing her experiences of society, her travels, and her thoughts on friendships and family. As the reader delves into these letters, they can expect a rich blend of personal anecdotes, societal commentary, and the evolving dynamics of women's roles in their intellectual circles.
Mary Wollstonecraft
Letters Written During a Short Residence in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark
"Letters Written During a Short Residence in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark" by Mary Wollstonecraft is a travel narrative published in 1796. The twenty-five letters blend sociological observations of Scandinavia with philosophical reflections on identity and nature. Wollstonecraft traveled to retrieve a stolen treasure ship for her lover, Gilbert Imlay, hoping to save their relationship. The letters, drawn from her journal and correspondence, reveal her growing despair as she realizes his betrayal. This work combines travel writing with autobiographical memoir, exploring themes of women's liberation and society's relationship with commerce.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 1
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 1" by Horace Walpole is a collection of letters and correspondences written in the 18th century. This volume includes a series of insightful letters spanning from 1735 to 1748, chronologically presenting not only Walpole's personal anecdotes and cultured observations but also offering glimpses into the political landscape of his time. The letters reveal Walpole's interactions with notable figures and provide a lively commentary on historical events, societal norms, and cultural nuances. At the start of the volume, readers are introduced to the structure of the work, which contains a mix of letters and 'Reminiscences of the Courts of George the First and Second,' alongside a preface outlining the collection's significance and context. The opening section begins to explore Walpole’s reflections on university life, his examinations of contemporaneous politics, and insights into historical figures such as George I and George II, establishing the dynamic atmosphere of court life. Through his eloquent and often witty prose, Walpole sets the tone for a detailed exploration of the British aristocracy's intricacies and the broader social fabric of 18th-century England.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 2
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 2" by Horace Walpole is a collection of personal correspondence written during the mid-18th century. This volume spans letters covering significant events and social dynamics of the time, revealing Walpole's observations on both the political landscape and cultural life of his era. The letters reflect themes of governance, society, and personal anecdotes, providing insights into the intricate relations among prominent figures of the period. At the start of this volume, Walpole communicates with Sir Horace Mann from his residence, Strawberry Hill, reflecting on the recent parliamentary sessions and his reactions to the aftermath of a peace treaty. He discusses the turbulence within the government, particularly the formidable opposition led by the Prince, and shares accounts of various public festivities, such as jubilee celebrations and firework displays. Through a blend of political commentary, personal reflections, and vivid descriptions of social events, the opening letters illustrate not only the political intrigues of the time but also the culture of celebration and spectacle that characterized Walpole's social milieu.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 4
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 4" by Horace Walpole is a collection of letters penned by the renowned English author and politician during the late 18th century. This volume spans the years from 1770 to 1797 and includes various letters that offer insight into Walpole's thoughts on politics, society, and culture in Britain and abroad, showcasing his wit and literary style. At the start of this volume, Walpole writes to Sir David Dalrymple, expressing his appreciation for Dalrymple's "History of Scottish Councils," which he finds more engaging than expected. He reflects on the contentious political atmosphere of the time, indicating his concerns about liberty and the potential for despotism. Walpole critiques various political figures and their actions, suggesting a troubling environment marked by ambition and corruption. As he exchanges correspondence with friends, he also shares snippets of his social life and his observations about the natural world, which serve as a contrast to the turmoil of the political landscape he contemplates.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 3
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 3" by Horace Walpole is a collection of correspondences written during the mid-18th century. This volume is a part of a larger compilation that tracks Walpole's engagements and reflections on political, cultural, and personal matters in the years 1759 to 1769. The letters provide insights into Walpole's views on contemporary events, literary works, and his personal relationships, highlighting the intersection of personal anecdotes with broader historical contexts. At the start of this volume, Walpole's letters reveal his wit and social observations as he communicates with esteemed contemporaries, including George Montagu and William Pitt. He writes about various themes such as political turbulence in Ireland, the resignations of public figures, and his reactions to military victories, all layered with humor and satire. His correspondence dissects current events, showcases the nuances of aristocratic life, and reflects on the trials and tribulations of personal connections, blending light-hearted banter with serious commentary on the state of England and its politics. The opening sets the tone for the rich tapestry of 18th-century correspondence that characterizes Walpole’s style.
Mary Wortley Montagu
Letters of the Right Honourable Lady M—y W—y M—e Written during Her Travels in Europe, Asia and Africa to Persons of Distinction, Men of Letters, &c. in Different Parts of Europe
"Letters of the Right Honourable Lady M—y W—y M—e" by Lady Mary Wortley Montagu is a collection of travel letters written in the early 18th century. This work captures the experiences and observations of Lady Mary during her journeys across Europe, Asia, and Africa, offering insights into her interactions with various cultures, especially the Turks. It presents a unique perspective on the society and customs of the time, particularly from the angle of a woman navigating through regions traditionally dominated by male travelers. The opening of the book introduces the author’s journey as she writes letters to her friends and acquaintances about her travels, starting with her passage from Rotterdam. Lady Mary shares her reflections on various places she visits, describing the cleanliness and liveliness of Rotterdam, joyful details about her excursions, and her impressions of the Dutch towns. Her letters are characterized by a lively and engaging tone, showcasing her keen observations of local customs, the people she encounters, and her broader thoughts on society as a woman of her era. These initial letters set the stage for a vivid account of Lady Mary’s adventures and her insightful commentary on 18th-century life.
Horace Walpole
Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume I
"Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume I" by Horace Walpole is a collection of letters written in the 18th century. This correspondence chronicles Walpole's observations, experiences, and commentary on various subjects, ranging from personal anecdotes and insights on societal manners to reflections on political events and cultural phenomena of his time. The opening of this collection reveals Walpole's vibrant personality and his keen engagement with contemporary society. In his letters to friends, he shares thoughts on the marriage of the Princess of Wales, reminisces about his education at Eton, and expresses a desire to travel, all while weaving in humorous observations about English and French manners. He discusses theatrical experiences in Paris, reflects on the splendor of Versailles, and provides a lively account of daily life, highlighting both the grandeur and the absurdity he encounters, thereby setting the tone for what promises to be an insightful and entertaining read through his epistolary exchanges.
Hester Lynch Piozzi
Autobiography, Letters and Literary Remains of Mrs. Piozzi (Thrale) (2nd ed.) (2 vols.) Edited with notes and Introductory Account of her life and writings
"Autobiography, Letters and Literary Remains of Mrs. Piozzi (Thrale)" edited by A. Hayward, Esq. Q.C. is a biographical collection of personal writings and correspondence from the late 18th to early 19th century. This work provides an in-depth look into the life of Hester Lynch Thrale Piozzi, a prominent literary figure and friend of Samuel Johnson, illustrating her unique perspectives and experiences during a significant period in literary history. The opening of the book introduces Mrs. Piozzi’s writings, particularly her autobiography and letters, alongside an introduction describing her life, character, and importance within the cultural milieu of her time. It discusses her relationship with Johnson, how she became a key figure in his circle, and the influence she had in preserving his legacy through her diaries and letters. The preface also emphasizes the process of compiling this edition, noting the additional materials that enrich her narrative, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her life intertwined with significant literary figures.
Mary Wollstonecraft
Posthumous Works of the Author of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman
"Posthumous Works of the Author of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman" is a literary collection published in the late 18th century, featuring unfinished writings by Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin. The opening volume includes a fragment titled "The Wrongs of Woman: or, Maria," which addresses the plight of women in a patriarchal society and examines themes of maternal loss, oppression, and the quest for personal liberation. The narrative revolves around the character Maria, who is imprisoned and separated from her child, exploring her emotional turmoil and desire for freedom. At the start of the book, Maria sits in her dreary prison, overwhelmed by anguish and memories of her infant child, whose absence haunts her. The narrative quickly delves into her despair and determination to escape her confinement and unite with her child. The text is rich with emotional reflection and social criticism, highlighting the broader struggles faced by women and the injustices perpetuated by societal norms. As Maria grapples with her circumstances, she becomes increasingly aware of her oppressed status as a woman, leading her to seek not only personal freedom but also a voice against the systemic injustices faced by her gender.
Horace Walpole
Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume II
"Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume II" by Horace Walpole is a collection of correspondence written in the mid-18th century. This volume showcases Walpole's observations on various topics, including French society, English politics, and the cultural exchanges between the two nations, revealing his sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary life. At the start of the collection, the opening letters introduce Walpole's journey and experiences in Paris, notably his interactions with figures such as Madame de Boufflers and reflections on the French perspective of English character. He expresses amusement with the social dynamics of both cultures, critiquing the rigidity and pretentiousness he perceives in France, while revealing his personal sentiments about art, literature, and the theatre. Additionally, he discusses contemporary political issues, including debates on American taxation and the state of the English government, setting the stage for a vibrant exploration of 18th-century European society as viewed through Walpole's keen eyes.
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