Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley (1797-1851) was a pioneering English novelist best known for her groundbreaking work in the genre of science fiction. Born to renowned thinkers Mary Wollstonecraft and William Godwin, she grew up in an intellectually stimulating environment that fostered her literary talents. At the age of 18, she conceived the idea for her most famous novel, “Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus,” during a summer spent with Percy Bysshe Shelley, Lord Byron, and others at Lake Geneva. Published in 1818, “Frankenstein” not only captivated readers with its haunting portrayal of creation and responsibility but also sparked crucial discussions about ethics in science and humanity’s relationship with technology.

In addition to “Frankenstein,” Mary Shelley authored several other notable works, including “The Last Man,” published in 1826, which presents a dystopian vision of a future ravaged by plague and isolation. Throughout her life, she faced personal tragedies, including the loss of her husband and several children, which deeply influenced her writing. Shelley’s contributions to literature extend beyond her novels; she was an accomplished essayist, biographer, and editor, playing an essential role in the Romantic literary movement. Her works continue to resonate today, exploring themes of identity, existence, and the moral implications of scientific advancement.