The Love Letters of Dorothy Osborne to Sir William Temple, 1652-54

"The Love Letters of Dorothy Osborne to Sir William Temple, 1652-54" by Dorothy Osborne is a compilation of personal letters that showcases a budding romance in England during the 1650s. Through her letters, Dorothy shares her growing love for William Temple, and the reader sees how the couple tries to overcome family opposition and social constraints. Dorothy's initial letters describe her life in Chicksands, her family relationships, and her determination not to marry someone chosen for her. Her correspondence showcases her sharp wit and strong will as she balances her deep affection for William with societal and family pressures. We see a smart, independent woman dealing with arranged marriages and the complexities of love during a politically unstable period.