Mary Shelley

Biography

Mary Shelley (1797–1851) was an English novelist, best known for her iconic work Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus (1818), which is considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction. Born Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin in London, she was the daughter of the political philosopher William Godwin and the feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft, giving her a rich intellectual upbringing.

Shelley’s life was marked by personal tragedy, including the early deaths of her mother, her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley, and several of her children. These experiences influenced the themes of loss, creation, and humanity in her writing. Frankenstein, inspired by a challenge to write a ghost story, explores scientific ambition, ethical responsibility, and the consequences of defying nature.

Beyond Frankenstein, Mary Shelley wrote novels, essays, and travelogues, contributing to literature with her sharp intellect, imaginative storytelling, and pioneering spirit. Her work continues to inspire writers and thinkers worldwide.