Mary Astell (1666–1731)

Abstract

This chapter includes selected letters from the correspondence of early English feminist Mary Astell. It includes Astell’s letters to and from John Norris, George Hickes, and an unknown religious woman, spanning the period from 1693 to 1705. It begins with an introductory essay by the editor, showing that Astell’s letters contain a number of the same philosophical commitments found in her later published works, including the same rigorous method of thinking and a high value for intellectual integrity and impartiality. The topics of the letters range from issues to do with the love of God and the causation of sensation to the value of female friendship and the importance of exercising independent judgement in religious matters. The text includes editorial annotations to assist the reader’s understanding of early modern words and ideas.