Born in 1623, Margaret Cavendish was an English aristocrat who became a pioneering writer and philosopher during the 17th century. As the youngest of eight children in the Lucas family, she served as a maid of honour to Queen Henrietta Maria, accompanying her into exile in France during the English Civil War. In 1645, she married William Cavendish, the Marquess (and later Duke) of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, which provided her with the platform to pursue her intellectual interests.Cavendish was a prolific author, publishing over a dozen works that spanned poetry, plays, and scientific treatises-a remarkable feat at a time when female authors were rare. Her writings delved into topics such as natural philosophy, gender roles, and societal structures, often challenging the prevailing norms of her era. Notably, her 1666 work, The Blazing World, is considered one of the earliest examples of science fiction, showcasing her imaginative and forward-thinking approach.Despite facing criticism and being labeled eccentric by her contemporaries, Cavendish remained steadfast in her intellectual pursuits. She was the first woman to attend a meeting of the Royal Society, reflecting her determination to engage with the scientific community. Her legacy endures as a trailblazer for women in literature and science, highlighting the importance of challenging societal constraints to pursue one's passions.

Preface; Introduction; Chronology of Margaret Cavendish; Further Reading; The Description of a New World, Called The Blazing World; Orations of Divers Sorts, Accommodated to Divers Places; Index.