Overview Of Mary Astell's A Serious Proposal To The Ladies

Mary grew up in a strict household with her father (Peter) and mother (Mary). She had two brothers, but only one lived. Her uncle, Ralph Astell taught her some literature and philosophy, which was the start of her being a writer. Her father died at the age of 12. This caused her family to move in with their uncle. Mary’s mom died in 1668. She then moved to Chelsea, London. A Serious Proposal to the Ladies was the first book she wrote, which broaden her feminism. This book was published in 1694. Her book was based upon the lack of knowledge women had. By writing this book she hoped to improve the status of women’s education. A Serious Proposal to the Ladies is where Mary Astell proposes a nunnery just for women. She also addresses the lack of educational opportunities for women. Most women during her time were wives and mothers which meant they didn't have a strong education pr any at all. Men thought they had more power since most were smarter. They looked down on women. Mary wanted women to make a change. The only education they received was how to be a good mother and wife. They learned how to do housework, sing, and play instruments. They learned all things outside of enhancing their academics. Mary believed that women should also be educated.

Most of Mary’s philosophy was based off Christianity. She believed in the …show more content…
In the Royal Hospital in Chelsea, she started a charity school for the daughters of pensioners. Mary acted as a model for a lot of other 18th century writers. Women’s education was one of the main things she concerned in her life. Other than A Serious Proposal to the Ladies, Mary wrote other books. Some of her other works include: Some Reflections Upon Marriage (1703), Astell : Political Writings, and The Christian Religion, as Professed by a Daughter of the Church of England: Containing… . Mary Astell’s views helped shape feminist values for