Mary Shelley

In celebration of the 200th anniversary of Frankenstein, Miranda Seymour offers a definitive and vividly woven biography of Mary Shelley, exploring her childhood, relationship with Percy Shelley, and the creation of Frankenstein. The book offers a fresh perspective on Shelley, portraying her as a flawed, brave, generous, and impetuous woman whose dark and brilliant imagination gave us a myth that remains potent today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 672 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2018
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

The most captivating biography of a female writer I have encountered in the past decade has left an indelible mark on my literary journey. The Financial Times hailed it as "the most dazzling biography of a female writer to have come my way for a decade," while the Times Literary Supplement praised its vivid and sympathetic recreation of the tragic life and brilliant times of the gifted Mary Shelley. The Independent on Sunday described it as "brilliant and enthralling," while the Spectator marveled at its "wonderfully vivid" portrayal.

To commemorate the 200th anniversary of Frankenstein, the creator of the world's most famous outsider became one herself. In this definitive and richly woven biography, Miranda Seymour delves into the life of Mary Shelley, illuminating the rich and unexplored tapestry of her existence. From her humble beginnings to her tempestuous relationship with Percy Shelley, Seymour brings to life the brilliant mind that gave birth to Frankenstein through a myriad of unexplored and intriguing sources.

The Mary Shelley portrayed here is a relatable and human figure. Her world, teeming with vivid settings and a cast of captivating characters, exudes the essence of a novel. At its core, she is flawed, brave, generous, and impetuous, a woman whose dark and brilliant imagination birthed a myth that resonates with us even in our contemporary era.

Seymour's meticulous research and storytelling skills bring Mary Shelley to life in a way that is both captivating and deeply informative. The book offers a comprehensive account of her life, from her early years to her final days, weaving together personal anecdotes, historical context, and literary analysis. Through her lens, we gain a deeper understanding of Shelley's influences, her creative process, and the societal and cultural milieu that shaped her remarkable life.

One of the most striking aspects of Seymour's biography is her ability to humanize Shelley's complex personality. She portrays her as a woman who was both fiercely independent and deeply vulnerable, navigating the challenges of love, loss, and societal expectations with grace and resilience. Shelley's relationships with her family, friends, and contemporaries are explored in depth, shedding light on the intricate web of connections that shaped her life and work.

Seymour's writing is elegant and evocative, transporting readers back to the era in which Shelley lived. Her vivid descriptions and sensory details bring the characters and settings to life, allowing readers to feel a sense of immersion and connection to the world of Mary Shelley. The book also includes a wealth of previously unpublished letters, journals, and other personal documents, providing a rare glimpse into Shelley's private thoughts and emotions.

In conclusion, Miranda Seymour's biography of Mary Shelley is a masterpiece that celebrates the life and legacy of one of the greatest writers of all time. It offers a captivating and nuanced portrayal of Shelley's life, delving into her personal experiences, creative inspirations, and the profound impact she had on literature and society. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of literature, history, and the power of the human imagination.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 131 x 197 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471174155