The founder of modern feminism, Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797) was the most famous woman of her era. A brilliant, unconventional rebel vilified for her strikingly modern notions of education, family, work, and personal relationships, she nevertheless strongly influenced political philosophy in Europe and a newborn America. This book paints a full and vibrant portrait of an extraordinary historical figure who was generations ahead of her time.

First Harper Perennial edition published 2006. "Published in Great Britain in 2005 under the title: Mary Wollstonecraft by Little, Brown"--T.p. verso.

Violence at home -- 'School of adversity' -- New life at Newington -- A community of women -- A governess in Ireland -- The trials of high life -- Vindication -- Rival lives -- Into the terror -- Risks in love -- The silver ship -- Far North -- Woman's words -- 'The most fruitful experiment' -- Slanders -- Converts -- Daughters -- Generations.