Talk: Mary the Contrary – The story of Mary Wollstonecraft “Britains first feminist” (1759-97)

Former Times journalist and vice president of the Putney Society Hugh Thompson returns to tell the story of Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-97) the feminist icon who once threw herself off Putney Bridge. In a time when women had few rights and less opportunities, how did this god mother of feminism, this “hyena in a petticoat” achieve so much? How did she navigate a life of cruel childhood, disastrous love affairs, suicide attempts and end up a revered and respected figurehead in the history of female emancipation. Her famous books inspired not only the Romantic poets but women everywhere seeking equality and independence. There was a time when the tragedies in her life were seen as a vindication of women knowing their place, no more. But as her recent statue in Newington Green shows she is not without controversy.
• Refreshments from 6pm
• Talk begins at 6.30pm
• Please book via the Eventbrite listing or the QR code shown
Whilst this is a free event sponsored by the Friends of Putney Library, donations are gratefully accepted.