Jane Welsh Carlyle Quotes
Jane Welsh Carlyle (1801-1866) was a Scottish author and the wife of the famous essayist Thomas Carlyle. She was a prolific letter writer and her correspondence with her husband and other notable figures of the time, such as John Stuart Mill, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, has…Read More
Jane Welsh Carlyle (1801-1866) was a Scottish author and the wife of the famous essayist Thomas Carlyle. She was a prolific letter writer and her correspondence with her husband and other notable figures of the time, such as John Stuart Mill, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, has been published in several volumes. Her most notable works include her Letters and Memorials of Jane Welsh Carlyle, which was published posthumously in 1883, and her novel, The Life of Alexander Carlyle, which was published in 1882. She is remembered for her wit and intelligence, and her influence on her husband’s work.Read Less
Jane Welsh Carlyle (1801-1866) was a Scottish author and the wife of the famous essayist Thomas Carlyle. She was a prolific letter writer and her correspondence with her husband and other notable figures of the time, such as John Stuart Mill, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, has been published in several volumes. Her most notable works include her Letters and Memorials of Jane Welsh Carlyle, which was published posthumously in 1883, and her novel, The Life of Alexander Carlyle, which was published in 1882. She is remembered for her wit and intelligence, and her influence on her husband’s work.
Jane Welsh Carlyle Career Highlights
- Early Career: Jane Welsh Carlyle was born in Haddington, Scotland, and received a good education from her parents. She showed a talent for writing from a young age and published her first poem at the age of 14.
- Marriage to Thomas Carlyle: In 1826, Jane married Thomas Carlyle, a rising literary figure. Their marriage was unconventional for the time, as they both valued intellectual pursuits and had a deep respect for each other’s work.
- Literary Collaborations: Jane and Thomas collaborated on several literary projects, including translations of German works and editing Thomas’s famous book, “The French Revolution: A History.” Jane’s sharp wit and editing skills greatly contributed to the success of these projects.
- Social Circle: Jane was known for her wit and charm, and she became a prominent figure in the literary and social circles of London. She hosted salons at their home, where intellectuals and artists would gather to discuss literature, politics, and social issues.
- Writing Career: Despite her busy social life, Jane continued to write and publish her own works. She wrote letters, essays, and short stories, which were highly praised for their wit and insight into Victorian society.
- Legacy: After her death, Jane’s letters and journals were published, giving readers a glimpse into her life and thoughts. They were highly acclaimed for their literary value and have been studied by scholars and historians to gain a better understanding of Victorian society.
Key Contributions by Jane Welsh Carlyle
- Literary Collaborations: Jane’s contributions to Thomas’s work were significant, and she played a crucial role in shaping his ideas and writings. She also wrote several essays and short stories, which were well-received by her contemporaries.
- Social Reformer: Jane was a strong advocate for social reform, particularly for women’s rights and education. She used her platform as a prominent socialite to raise awareness and support for these causes.
- Supportive Wife: Jane’s unwavering support and encouragement were crucial to Thomas’s success. She managed their household and finances, allowing Thomas to focus on his writing and intellectual pursuits.
What Sets Jane Welsh Carlyle Apart
- Independent Spirit: Jane was a fiercely independent woman, who refused to conform to the traditional roles expected of women in Victorian society. She pursued her own interests and had a strong sense of self, which set her apart from other women of her time.
- Intellectual Equal: Jane’s intelligence and wit were on par with her husband’s, and she was often referred to as his intellectual equal. This was a rare and remarkable quality for a woman in the 19th century.
- Unconventional Marriage: Jane and Thomas’s marriage was unconventional for the time, as they both valued their individual pursuits and did not conform to societal expectations. They had a deep respect and love for each other, which was evident in their letters and writings.
Takeaways
- Jane Welsh Carlyle was a talented writer, socialite, and advocate for social reform.
- Her contributions to literature and her unconventional marriage to Thomas Carlyle set her apart from other women of her time.
- Her legacy continues to inspire and influence readers, as her letters and journals provide a unique perspective on Victorian society.
Other People
Writer/Author
Author
1882 - 1956
Author
· Canada
1843 - 1919
Author
1933
