Mary Shelley Biography – Life, Works, and Legacy
Mary Shelley (1797–1851) was an English novelist, essayist, and biographer, best known as the author of the Gothic masterpiece Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus. Her life and works continue to inspire scholars, writers, and readers worldwide, making her one of the most influential figures in English literature.
Early Life
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley was born on August 30, 1797, in London, England. She was the daughter of Mary Wollstonecraft, a pioneering feminist author, and William Godwin, a radical philosopher and writer. Tragically, her mother died shortly after childbirth, leaving Mary to be raised by her father and later, her stepmother.
Growing up surrounded by literature, philosophy, and political debates, Shelley developed a passion for writing at an early age.
The connection between Percy Bysshe Shelley
Despite societal criticism, Mary fell in love with the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley in 1814. They started a tumultuous but innovative collaboration after eloping to Europe. After Percy’s first wife passed away tragically, they were married in 1816.
Frankenstein’s Birth
Mary came up with the concept for Frankenstein in the summer of 1816 while visiting Lake Geneva with Percy Shelley and Lord Byron. She penned a story that became one of the first genuine science fiction novels after being inspired by conversations about creation, life, and science. The story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates life but suffers terrible repercussions, is told in Frankenstein, an anonymous publication from 1818.
The novel explored themes of ambition, isolation, morality, and the dangers of unchecked scientific pursuit. Over time, Frankenstein became a cultural icon, adapted into countless films, plays, and modern retellings.
Other Works
While Frankenstein remains her most famous novel, Mary Shelley also wrote several other works, including:
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Valperga (1823)
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The Last Man (1826), a dystopian novel set in a plague-ravaged future
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Perkin Warbeck (1830)
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Lodore (1835)
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Falkner (1837)
She also edited and promoted Percy Shelley’s poetry after his death, ensuring his literary legacy.
Later Life and Death
After Percy Shelley’s tragic drowning in 1822, Mary returned to England. She focused on raising their only surviving son and sustaining her career as a writer. Despite financial struggles and health challenges, she remained an active literary figure.
Mary Shelley died on February 1, 1851, at the age of 53, leaving behind a remarkable body of work and an enduring legacy.
Legacy
Mary Shelley is remembered as the “Mother of Science Fiction” for her groundbreaking contribution to the genre. Her exploration of human ambition, ethical responsibility, and the power of imagination continues to resonate in today’s world.
Through Frankenstein and her other works, Mary Shelley secured her place as one of the most important voices of Romantic and Gothic literature.