Partially because of her father's encouragement, and partially in spite of his overbearing and controlling nature, Mary Edgeworth became one of the more notable female writers of 18th century England. Born in Oxfordshire, England, she spent time in Ireland and later on the Continent. She wrote novels, essays, and several collections of children's stories. Her first publication was a proto-feminist essay about women's education, titled "Letters to Literary ladies" (1795). Among her more notable novels are Castle Rackrent(1800), Belinda(1801), and The Absentee(1812). Her nonfiction includes, among others, "Essay on Irish Bulls" (1802), and her father's life story, simply titled Memoirs.(1820). She was well known among English literary circles and was acquainted with Lord Byron, Humphrey Davy, and Sir Walter Scott. Edgeworth also worked to helped in the Irish Potato Famine relief effort.
Quotidiana site founder Patrick Madden has just published a book of his own personal essays, including pieces formerly published in the Best American Spiritual Writing and Best Creative Nonfiction anthologies.
If you enjoy the classical essays on this site, you'll enjoy these contemporary ruminations as well. Soon there'll be a web page here with further information, but for now, you can find out more (and perhaps purchase a copy) at Amazon.com.
"Patrick Madden is an essayist of verve, passion, wit, and dependable moral compass. Quotidiana drew me in powerfully, from page to page and from pleasure to pleasure." —Ian Frazier
2011 Symposium on the Essay
Friend of Quotidiana Kim Dana Kupperman's Welcome Table Press is hosting a one-day symposium at Fordham University on Saturday, October 15th, 2011.
In Praise of the Essay: Practice & Form will feature talks and discussions by Phillip Lopate, Robin Hemley, Barbara Hurd, and more.
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