Autobiography, Letters and Literary Remains of Mrs. Piozzi (Thrale) (2nd ed.) (2 vols.) Edited with notes and Introductory Account of her life and writings   By: Hester Lynch Piozzi (1741-1821)

In the Autobiography, Letters, and Literary Remains of Mrs. Piozzi (Thrale), readers are given a unique glimpse into the life and mind of a remarkable woman. Edited with meticulous care and accompanied by insightful notes and an introductory account by Hester Lynch Piozzi herself, this second edition in two volumes is an essential addition to any literature enthusiast's collection.

Mrs. Piozzi, known for her wit and intelligence, takes readers on a journey through her captivating life experiences. From her childhood in Wales to her marital struggles and ultimate success as a writer, her narrative is both compelling and enlightening. Her candidness and ability to reflect on the circumstances of her own life make her autobiography a truly engaging read.

One of the highlights of this edition is the extensive collection of letters included. Through these correspondence, we gain not only a deeper understanding of Mrs. Piozzi's relationships with literary figures such as Samuel Johnson but also a broader insight into the social and cultural milieu of the time. It is through this lens that we witness the complex tapestry of life in eighteenth-century Britain.

The editor, Hester Lynch Piozzi, undeniably possesses a profound understanding of her subject. Her notes and commentary provide invaluable context, clarifying certain passages and shedding light on the intricate details of Mrs. Piozzi's life. Piozzi's deep admiration for her subject is evident throughout her introductory account, which serves as an excellent starting point for readers embarking on this literary journey.

While the overall quality of this edition is exceptional, the organization of the material can feel slightly overwhelming. Given the expansive range of letters and literary remains, it is understandable that some readers may find themselves occasionally lost or searching for chronological coherence. However, the strength of the content itself often compensates for this minor drawback.

In conclusion, the Autobiography, Letters, and Literary Remains of Mrs. Piozzi (Thrale) in its second edition is a captivating exploration of a remarkable woman's life. Mrs. Piozzi's unique perspective, combined with the insightful editing and commentary by Hester Lynch Piozzi, makes this comprehensive collection a must-read for anyone interested in literary history and the personal journeys of exceptional individuals.

First Page:

THE first edition of a work of this kind is almost necessarily imperfect; since the editor is commonly dependent for a great deal of the required information upon sources the very existence of which is unknown to him till reminiscences are revived, and communications invited, by the announcement or publication of the book. Some valuable contributions reached me too late to be properly placed or effectively worked up; some, too late to be included at all. The arrangement in this edition will therefore, I trust, be found less faulty than in the first, whilst the additions are large and valuable. They principally consist of fresh extracts from Mrs. Piozzi's private diary ("Thraliana"), amounting to more than fifty pages; of additional marginal notes on books, and of copious extracts from letters hitherto unpublished... Continue reading book >>