When she gave birth to a third child in 1803, Mary’s alienation became amplified. The woman, Jane Clairmont, moved in with her two children. When Mary was four years old, her father remarried a woman who was not fond of Mary. The death of Mary’s mother left a profound impact on her life-as she grew up, she was frequently compared to her in beauty and personality. She survived the birth, but tragically died ten days after. Mary’s mother developed an infection during childbirth.

Her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, was the author of the radical book, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, among other celebrated works. Her father, William Godwin, was an acclaimed journalist and political philosopher. Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley was born in 1797 to two exceptional writers. This article was originally written for Lookingglass Theatre Company’s production of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Support McCarter Toggle collapse sub-navigation items.Support McCarter Toggle expand sub-navigation items.Education Toggle collapse sub-navigation items.Education Toggle expand sub-navigation items.COVID-19 Policy Toggle collapse sub-navigation items.

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William godwin mary shelley