Philip's Phoenix Mary Sidney, Countess of Pembroke

by Hannay, Margaret P.

• ISBN13: 9780195057799
• ISBN10: 0195057791
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1990-01-18
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

In contrast to previous studies that have portrayed Mary Sidney as a demure, retiring woman, this biography shows that she was actually an outspoken and dynamic figure. Basing her work on primary sources including account books, legal documents, diaries, and family letters, Hannay shows that Sidney was a vibrant, eloquent, self-assertive woman who was deeply involved in Protestant politics. Although she did confine her writings to appropriately feminine genres, she called herself "Sister of Philip Sidney" to establish a literary and political identity. As a Phoenix rising from her brother's ashes, she transcended gender restrictions by publishing her brother's writings, by writing and translating works which he would have approved, by assuming his role as literary patron, and by supporting the cause for which he died. Hannay also reveals--via court cases--that in her final years the countess turned from literary to administrative responsibilities, contending with jewel thieves, pirates, and murderers.

Table of Contents

Genealogical Charts	p. xvi
Prologue: The Bear and the Porcupine	p. 3
"Daughter of Very Good Hope"	p. 15
"As You Begine"	p. 33
"Sister vnto Astrofell"	p. 59
"This Moses and this Miriam"	p. 84
"Patronesse of the Muses"	p. 106
"Most Vertuous Actions"	p. 143
"A Most Heroical Spirit"	p. 173
Epilogue: The Lions	p. 208
Notes	p. 215
Bibliography	p. 279
Index	p. 299
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