The Life and Romances of Mrs. Eliza Haywood

"The Life and Romances of Mrs. Eliza Haywood" by George Frisbie Whicher is a close study of a writer who made waves in the 1700s. The book looks at the life and books of Eliza Haywood, a famous author of romance novels that also stirred up controversy back in her day. Whicher shows how important Haywood was as one of the first women to write novels. He highlights how her stories dealt with strong emotions, the rules of society, and the problems that women faced in writing at the time. The start of the book describes how Haywood wasn't given enough credit when she was alive or later on. Whicher gives background on Haywood's unusual childhood, her marriage, and her scandalous decision to run away, suggesting her life was full of drama both in and out of her career. The author also points out Haywood's unique literary skills that created a space for women in a field dominated by men, as she produced many novels, screenplays and writings that mirrored both her individual hardships and societal criticisms. This introduction sets the tone for a deeper understanding of how Haywood shaped the novel and the changing roles of women in literature.