Publisher's Synopsis
This unique volume collects together all the writings of Catharine Trotter printed before 1701. It includes a novella, The Adventures of a Young Lady (1693); two performed tragedies, Agnes de Castro (1696) and Fatal Friendship (1698); 'Calliope: The Heroick Muse' from 'The Nine Muses' (1700), a collection of poems by women on the death of John Dryden; and two poems printed with plays by other female playwrights: To Mrs. Manley. By the Author of Agnes de Castro from Delarivier Manley's 'The Royal Mischief' (1696) and Epilogue: Written by Mrs. Trotter. Spoken by Miss Porter from Mary Pix's 'Queen Catharine' (1698). - - Catharine Trotter joined the London literary scene after the death of her father and from 1693 to 1706 she was one of a number of women poets and playwrights, including Mary Pix, Delarivier Manley, and a still unidentified 'Ariadne', who supported each other and seized the opportunity to publish when it was marginally more acceptable for women to engage in public literary activities. The major theme explored in these early works is the moral strength and rationality of women, particularly in the face of male passion and aggression. She also stresses female friendship and solidarity over sexual love, and explores the social and political need for absolute moral values. - - Anne Kelley's introductory note to this volume discusses the history, content and context of Catharine Trotter's early works as well as providing an interesting biographical introduction to the writer herself.
