In Defense of Harriet Shelley
The work critiques a biography of Percy Bysshe Shelley, focusing on the portrayal of his first wife, Harriet. The author argues that the biography unfairly blames Harriet for Shelley's decision to leave her for Mary Godwin, suggesting that Harriet's actions—such as hiring a wet-nurse and her supposed emotional detachment—are misrepresented as causes for Shelley's infidelity. The narrative highlights the author's disdain for the biographer's methods, which include using conjecture, rumor, and selective evidence to paint Harriet in a negative light while exonerating Shelley. The author emphasizes that Harriet was a young woman who, despite her challenges, displayed love and loyalty to Shelley. The text argues that the biographer's claims about Harriet's character lack substantial evidence and are instead based on hearsay from unreliable sources. The author contrasts this with testimonies from those who knew Harriet, asserting her innocence and virtue. As the narrative unfolds, it details Shelley's emotional turmoil and his shifting affections, ultimately leading to his relationship with Mary Godwin. The author critiques the romanticization of Shelley's life while exposing the harsh realities faced by Harriet, who is depicted as a victim of circumstance and societal judgment. The work culminates in a condemnation of the biographer's treatment of Harriet, arguing that her tragic end—drowning herself—was a direct consequence of Shelley's abandonment and the societal pressures she faced. Overall, the text serves as a defense of Harriet Shelley, challenging the narrative that seeks to vilify her while romanticizing Shelley's life and works. It calls for a reevaluation of Harriet's role and the injustices she endured, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of her character and circumstances.
By Mark Twain · First published 1864 · Genre: Literary Criticism, Historical Fiction, Biography · 3 chapters · 18,577 words
First lines
I have committed sins, of course; but I have not committed enough of them to entitle me to the punishment of reduction to the bread and water of ordinary literature during six years when I might have been living on the fat diet spread for the righteous in Professor Dowden's Life of Shelley, if I had been justly dealt with.
What this Textopian page supports
In Defense of Harriet Shelley is listed on Textopian as a novel by Mark Twain, dated 1864 CE.
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- Work type: Novel
- Author: Mark Twain
- Date: 1864 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Criticism, Historical Fiction, Biography, Satire, Feminist Literature
- Length: 18,577 words
- Structure: 3 chapters, 227 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for In Defense of Harriet Shelley by Mark Twain
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering In Defense of Harriet Shelley?
- How does this novel by Mark Twain fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Criticism first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Criticism — The book analyzes and defends the literary contributions of Harriet Shelley, focusing on her role in the literary canon.
- Historical Fiction — It provides context and commentary on the historical period surrounding Harriet Shelley's life and works.
- Biography — The narrative includes biographical elements about Harriet Shelley, exploring her life and influence.
- Satire — Twain employs satire to critique societal norms and attitudes towards women writers of the time.
Tags
Historical Fiction · Biographical Novel · Social Commentary · Literary Satire · Feminist Themes · Victorian Era · English Literature · Romanticism · Philosophy · Morality · Ethics · Societal Critique