Mary Wortley Montagu Quotes

A collection of quotes by Mary Wortley Montagu.

Lady Mary Wortley Montagu was an influential English writer and intellectual of the 18th century. She was born on May 26, 1689, in London, England, and grew up in an affluent family. Well-educated and intellectually curious, she immersed herself in literature and languages from an early age.

Mary Wortley Montagu is best known for her lively and witty letters, which she wrote throughout her life. Her letters provide a unique insight into social, political, and cultural life during the time and were published posthumously. Her correspondence includes letters from her time as the wife of the British ambassador in Constantinople, where she gained a deep appreciation for Turkish culture and the practice of smallpox inoculation. In fact, Lady Montagu is widely credited with introducing and popularizing the idea of inoculation against smallpox in Western Europe.

Beyond her literary achievements, Lady Mary was also an advocate for women's rights and education. She challenged conventional norms of the time and openly expressed her opinions on various social issues. Her boldness and independence were notable for a woman of her era.

Mary Wortley Montagu's writings and ideas continue to be celebrated today for their progressive and pioneering nature. She left a lasting legacy as a writer, intellectual, and advocate for women's rights, and her contributions to literature and society are still recognized and appreciated. She passed away on August 21, 1762, leaving behind a remarkable body of work.