Mary Hays Quotes

A collection of quotes by Mary Hays.

Mary Hays, also known as Molly Hays, was an English writer and religious dissenter, born on October 13, 1759, in Southwark, London, England. Little is known about her early life and family background, but she grew up in a devout Presbyterian household.

Hays is best known for her literary work, particularly her novel "Memoirs of Emma Courtney" (1796). The novel explored themes of women's oppression within a patriarchal society and challenged the prevailing gender norms of the time. It was considered a groundbreaking feminist work for its emphasis on female autonomy, education, and career aspirations.

In addition to her writing, Hays was associated with several political and intellectual circles of her time. She was friends with prominent feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft and provided assistance in the publication of Wollstonecraft's "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman" (1792). Hays also had connections with reformer William Godwin and philosopher Thomas Holcroft.

Unfortunately, after the death of her father in 1796, Hays faced financial difficulties and struggled to support herself. She continued writing, mainly contributing to periodicals and translating French works. However, her later works did not achieve the same level of success as her earlier novel.

Mary Hays died on February 3, 1843, in Hackney, London, leaving behind a significant contribution to early feminist literature with her novel "Memoirs of Emma Courtney."