Echoes of Empowerment: Women’s Journey Through British Literary History-KW

Created by Kaitlyn Wilfong on Wed, 05/07/2025 - 20:47

Part of Group:

MSSU ENG272 - Spring 2025

This project will demonstrate how British literature has both reflected and influenced the evolving roles of women over the past 250 years. By examining these texts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges women have faced and the progress that has been made in the fight for gender equality.

Through their groundbreaking works Anna Letita Barbauld, Mary Wollstonecraft, Mary Shelley, Christina Rossetti, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichi have not only enriched British Literature, but also challenged societal norms, and championed individual rights and empathy. 

Timeline

Birth of Anna Letita Baurbald

20 Jun 1743

Anna Letitia Barbauld was born in Kibworth Harcourt, Leicester, England. She is a Romantic period author. 

In her early life, her father and his collauges heavily encouraged her to pursure her education and literacy talents. 

“Anna Laetitia Barbauld | British Author and Editor | Britannica.” Www.britannica.com, www.britannica.com/biography/Anna-Laetitia-Barbauld.

‌

Her writing career last nearly fifteen years and she worked in lots of different genres, including childrens stores, essays, and poetry.  Her poetry demonstrated that women could engage in the public sphere, influencing other women authors. Despite facing criticism for her political views later in life, her work was rediscovered and appreciated through feminist literary criticism in the 1980s. 

In 1774, she married, and continured her writing career until her death in 1825. 


Associated Places

Kibworth Harcourt, Leicestershire, England
Warrington, Lancashire
Stoke Newington, London
Palgrave, Suffolk

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Birth of Mary Wollstonecraft

27 Apr 1759

Mary Wollstonecraft was another Romantic Era author, who is best known for her advocacy of women's rights. Wollstonecraft spent her early years working as a school teacher and governess attempting to escape her abusive father. These roles inspired her views on education. 

Mary Wollstonecraft had two daughter, Fanny Imlay, and Mary Shelley. Wollstonecraft is regarded as one of the founding feminist philosophers. Her works, particularly A Vindication of the Rights of Men, are considered classics of feminist literature. 

The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. “Mary Wollstonecraft.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 11 Mar. 2025, www.britannica.com/biography/Mary-Wollstonecraft.

‌


Associated Places

Spitalfields, East London
Barking, Essex
Epping Forest
Beverley, Yorkshire
Stoke Newington, London
Paris, France
London, England

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Publication of A Mouses Petition by Anna Letitia Barbauld

circa. 1773

"The Mouse's Petition" is a poem by Anna Laetitia Barbauld. The poem is written from the perspective of a mouse that is trapped and being held for a Doctors  experiments on the effects of gases. The mouse begs for mercy. Most interpretations of this claim the mouse is representative of the women and the  lower class during the romantic period. 

Anna Letitia Barbauld used her work to subtly challenge societal norms and advocate for empathy. On the surface level the poem is pleading for humane treatment of all creatures, but after further analysis she is actually questioning the status quo and offering a deeper critique of the treatment of the common people by the arguable oppressors. 

She is a great example of how from an early point women contributed to liturature by addressing issues through unique perspective. Barbaulds ability to weave social critique into her poetry demonstrates the power of women's voices in literature. 

“The Mouse’s Petition.” Keri Cronin, 10 Nov. 2015, kericronin.com/2015/11/10/the-mouses-petition/. Accessed 8 May 2025.

‌


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Loading

Publication of A Vindication of the Rights of Men by Mary Wollstonecraft

circa. 1790

Mary Wollstonecraft's A Vindication of the Rights of Men is a significant political pamphlet published in 1790 as a response to Edmund Burkes Reflections on the Revolution in France. Wollstonecraft's work was one of the first responses in a pamphlet war sparked by Burke's publication.  Wollstonecraft attacks hereditary privilege and advocates for republicanism, arguing for a society based on merit rather than birthright. 

Wollstonecraft uses Burke's own gendered language to critique his arguments, highlighting the ways in which societal norms and language perpetuate gender inequality. 

 A Vindication of the Rights of Men laid the groundwork for Wollstonecraft's later work, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, and contributed to the development of feminist philosophy. Wollstonecraft's A Vindication of the Rights of Men is a powerful critique of aristocracy and a passionate defense of republicanism and individual rights, making it a foundational text in both political and feminist literature. 

“A Vindication of the Rights of Men - Online Library of Liberty.” Libertyfund.org, 2019, oll.libertyfund.org/titles/wollstonecraft-a-vindication-of-the-rights-of-men.

‌


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Loading

Birth of Mary Shelley

30 Aug 1797

Mary Shelley was born on August 30, 1797, in London, was a Romantic period novelist best known for her novel Frankenstein. She was the daughter of political philosopher William Godwin and feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft. Her mother died shortly after her birth, leaving her to be raised by her father. 

In 1814, Mary Shelley married Percy Shelley, they eloped in Europe, and faced societal detriment. The lost several of their children; however, Mary continued to write and support Percy's endevors.

After Percy's death in 1822, Mary returned to England and focused on her writing and editing Percy's works.


Associated Places

Geneva, Switzerland

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Death of Mary Wollstonecraft

10 Sep 1797

Eleven days after the birth of Mary Shelley, Mary Wollstonecraft passed away due to complications of childbirth, during the birth of her second daughter Mary Shelly.  Specifically puerperal fever ,also known as childbed fever, which was a common and often fatal condition at the time.

 Wollstonecraft was buried at Old St Pancras Churchyard in London. Her remains were later moved to the Shelley tomb in Bournemouth. 

Wollstonecraft's passing was a significant loss to the literary and intellectual community. 


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Publication of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

1 Jan 1818

"Frankenstein", written by Mary Shelley and published in 1818, is a work of Gothic literature and one of the earliest examples of science fiction. The novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a creature in an scientific experiment. 

Mary Shelley conceived the idea for "Frankenstein" during a stay in Switzerland in 1816, inspired by a ghost story challenge among friends, including her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron.

The creature's struggle with identity and acceptance can be seen as a reflection of societal expectations and gender roles. Some analyses suggest that the creature's violent behavior stems from his rejection and isolation, paralleling the experiences of marginalized groups, including women. These feminist interpretations reveal deeper layers of the novel, making it not just a Gothic horror story but also a commentary on gender and societal norms. 

This is a novel of literacy innovation, an early example of science fiction, and a remarkable accomplishment for female authors. To take success over male authors, and still inspire discussions on ethics, science, and humanitiy is an increadiable achievement. 

Docka, Jackie. “Frankenstein: A Feminist Interpretation of Gender Construction.” Augsburg Honors Review, vol. 11, no. 1, Dec. 2018, idun.augsburg.edu/honors_review/vol11/iss1/1/.

“Frankenstein (the Original 1818 ‘Uncensored’ Edition) Ebook by Mary Shelley - Rakuten Kobo.” Rakuten Kobo, Kobo, 2024, www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/frankenstein-the-original-1818-uncensored-edition. Accessed 8 May 2025.

‌

‌

‌


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Loading

Publication of To a Little Invisible Being by Anna Letitia Barbauld

circa. 1825

Anna Letitia Barbauld's poem To a Little Invisible Being Who is Expected Soon to Become Visible is a tender and intimate piece that reflects the anticipation and joy of expecting a child.

It is in the perspective of an expecting mother and discusses the emotions and thoughts as she waits for her baby. The poem celebrates the arrival of life, expressing joy and anticipation. The mother's voice conveys a sense of wonder and excitement, emphasizing the positive aspects of pregnancy and the hope for the future. 

By giving voice to these experiences, Barbauld highlights the importance of women's roles and contributions to society.  The mother's voice in the poem is empowered and strong, reflecting her role as a creator and nurturer. This portrayal challenges traditional notions of women's roles, presenting motherhood as a source of strength and empowerment. Barbauld's poem is an important contribution to Romantic literature, offering a female perspective that was often under represented in the literary canon. Her work helps to broaden the scope of Romantic poetry by including women's voices and experiences.

EILeditor. “To a Little Invisible Being by Anna Laetitia Barbauld.” Excellence in Literature by Janice Campbell, 27 Nov. 2023, www.excellence-in-literature.com/to-a-little-invisible-being-by-barbauld/.

‌


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Loading

Death of Anna Letitia Barbauld

9 Mar 1825

Anna Letitia Barbauld passed away on March 9, 1825, in Stoke Newington, at the age of 82. 

She spent her late years continueing to write and engaging in literary studies. Her death marked the end of a long and influential career as a poet, essayist, literary critic, and educator. Barbauld's contributions to literature, particularly her innovative works for children and her advocacy for social and political reform, left a lasting legacy. 

Foundation, Poetry. “Anna Lætitia Barbauld.” Poetry Foundation, 15 May 2020, www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/anna-laetitia-barbauld.

‌


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Birth of Christina Rossetti

5 Dec 1830

Christina was the youngest child in a highly talented family.  Christina was educated at home, where she was exposed to a rich literary environment. 

 She began writing at a young age, and her first published work appeared in 1850 under a pseudonym.  Goblin Market and Other Poems, established her as a significant poet of her time.

Christina faced several personal challenges, including health issues. She was diagnosed with Graves' disease in 1871, which affected her appearance and health. Despite her health problems, she continued to write and publish poetry.

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.

‌


Associated Places

London, England
Frome, Somerset
Highgate, London

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Publication of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti

circa. 1862

Goblin Market" is one of Christina Rossetti's most famous and intriguing poems. 

The poem tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling exotic fruits. Laura succumbs to the temptation and eats the goblin fruit, which leads to dire consequences. Lizzie, in an act of self-sacrifice, confronts the goblins to save her sister, ultimately restoring Laura's health. The bond between the sisters is a key theme, highlighting the strength of their relationship. 

 The poem reflects Victorian attitudes towards women, sexuality, and morality. "Goblin Market" has been interpreted in various ways, including as a religious allegory, a critique of Victorian gender roles, and a celebration of female solidarity.  Christina Rossetti uses her voice in Goblin Market to critique the Victorian Era view on womens roles, and sexuality. 

Bovey, Lee-James. “Analysis of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti.” Poem Analysis, 2 Apr. 2017, poemanalysis.com/christina-rossetti/goblin-market/.


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Loading

Death of Christina Rossetti

29 Dec 1895

Christina Rossetti had been suffering from cancer, which ultimately led to her death. Rossetti was buried on January 2, 1895, in the family grave on the west side of Highgate Cemetery . This cemetery is known for its historical significance and the notable figures interred there.

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.

‌


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Birth of Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche

15 Sep 1977

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie was born on September 15, 1977, in Enugu, Nigeria. She grew up on the campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where her father was a professor and her mother was the first female registrar. 

She moved to the United States  in 1997, to study political science. 

Adichie splits her time between Nigeria and the United States and continues to be a powerful voice in contemporary discussions. Adichie's works have gained international acclaim and are considered significant contributions to contemporary literature. Adichie's contributions to literature provide valuable perspectives that enhance the study of British literature

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie | Biography, Books, Drea, Count, Ted Talk, Education, & Facts | Britannica


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Publication of Checking Out by Chimaminda Ngozi Adichi

18 Mar 2013

The story follows Obinze, a Nigerian immigrant living in London, who struggles with his undocumented status after his visa expires. Obinze's journey highlights the complexities of immigration and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. He meets two Angolans who offer to arrange a marriage for him to gain citizenship, leading to a series of events that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the sacrifices made for a better life. Adichie's narrative style in "Checking Out" is poignant and insightful, capturing the nuances of Obinze's experiences and the broader issues faced by immigrants. it can also be viewed through a feminist lens. Adichie is well-known for her feminist activism and often incorporates themes of gender and equality into her work. In "Checking Out," the character Cleotilde, who agrees to a sham marriage to help Obinze, can be seen as navigating her own challenges within a patriarchal society. Her story reflects the broader struggles women face in terms of autonomy and economic independence. 

This work critiques the social injustices women face, and weaves the critisim into an amazing work of story telling. 

S, Rajitha. “Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Her Feminist Activism through Storytelling.” Feminism in India, 15 Sept. 2019, feminisminindia.com/2019/09/16/chimamanda-ngozi-adichie-feminist-activism-storytelling/.


Associated Places

No places have been associated with this event

by Kaitlyn Wilfong

Loading

Birth of Anna Letita Baurbald

Birth of Mary Wollstonecraft

Publication of A Mouses Petition by Anna Letitia Barbauld

Publication of A Vindication of the Rights of Men by Mary Wollstonecraft

Birth of Mary Shelley

Death of Mary Wollstonecraft

Publication of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Publication of To a Little Invisible Being by Anna Letitia Barbauld

Death of Anna Letitia Barbauld

Birth of Christina Rossetti

Publication of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti

Death of Christina Rossetti

Birth of Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche

Publication of Checking Out by Chimaminda Ngozi Adichi

1000
1100
1200
1300
1400
1500
1600
1700
1800
1900
2000
2100
2200
2300
2400
2500
2600
1670
1680
1690
1710
1720
1730
1740
1750
1760
1770
1780
1790
1810
1820
1830
1840
1850
1860
1870
1880
1890
1910
1920
1930
1940
1950
1960
1970
1980
1990
2010
2020
2030
2040
2050
2060
2070
TimelineJS

Chronological table

Displaying 1 - 14 of 14
Date Event Created by Associated Places
20 Jun 1743

Birth of Anna Letita Baurbald

Anna Letitia Barbauld was born in Kibworth Harcourt, Leicester, England. She is a Romantic period author. 

In her early life, her father and his collauges heavily encouraged her to pursure her education and literacy talents. 

“Anna Laetitia Barbauld | British Author and Editor | Britannica.” Www.britannica.com, www.britannica.com/biography/Anna-Laetitia-Barbauld.

‌

Her writing career last nearly fifteen years and she worked in lots of different genres, including childrens stores, essays, and poetry.  Her poetry demonstrated that women could engage in the public sphere, influencing other women authors. Despite facing criticism for her political views later in life, her work was rediscovered and appreciated through feminist literary criticism in the 1980s. 

In 1774, she married, and continured her writing career until her death in 1825. 

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
27 Apr 1759

Birth of Mary Wollstonecraft

Mary Wollstonecraft was another Romantic Era author, who is best known for her advocacy of women's rights. Wollstonecraft spent her early years working as a school teacher and governess attempting to escape her abusive father. These roles inspired her views on education. 

Mary Wollstonecraft had two daughter, Fanny Imlay, and Mary Shelley. Wollstonecraft is regarded as one of the founding feminist philosophers. Her works, particularly A Vindication of the Rights of Men, are considered classics of feminist literature. 

The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. “Mary Wollstonecraft.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 11 Mar. 2025, www.britannica.com/biography/Mary-Wollstonecraft.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
circa. 1773

Publication of A Mouses Petition by Anna Letitia Barbauld

"The Mouse's Petition" is a poem by Anna Laetitia Barbauld. The poem is written from the perspective of a mouse that is trapped and being held for a Doctors  experiments on the effects of gases. The mouse begs for mercy. Most interpretations of this claim the mouse is representative of the women and the  lower class during the romantic period. 

Anna Letitia Barbauld used her work to subtly challenge societal norms and advocate for empathy. On the surface level the poem is pleading for humane treatment of all creatures, but after further analysis she is actually questioning the status quo and offering a deeper critique of the treatment of the common people by the arguable oppressors. 

She is a great example of how from an early point women contributed to liturature by addressing issues through unique perspective. Barbaulds ability to weave social critique into her poetry demonstrates the power of women's voices in literature. 

“The Mouse’s Petition.” Keri Cronin, 10 Nov. 2015, kericronin.com/2015/11/10/the-mouses-petition/. Accessed 8 May 2025.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
circa. 1790

Publication of A Vindication of the Rights of Men by Mary Wollstonecraft

Mary Wollstonecraft's A Vindication of the Rights of Men is a significant political pamphlet published in 1790 as a response to Edmund Burkes Reflections on the Revolution in France. Wollstonecraft's work was one of the first responses in a pamphlet war sparked by Burke's publication.  Wollstonecraft attacks hereditary privilege and advocates for republicanism, arguing for a society based on merit rather than birthright. 

Wollstonecraft uses Burke's own gendered language to critique his arguments, highlighting the ways in which societal norms and language perpetuate gender inequality. 

 A Vindication of the Rights of Men laid the groundwork for Wollstonecraft's later work, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, and contributed to the development of feminist philosophy. Wollstonecraft's A Vindication of the Rights of Men is a powerful critique of aristocracy and a passionate defense of republicanism and individual rights, making it a foundational text in both political and feminist literature. 

“A Vindication of the Rights of Men - Online Library of Liberty.” Libertyfund.org, 2019, oll.libertyfund.org/titles/wollstonecraft-a-vindication-of-the-rights-of-men.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
30 Aug 1797

Birth of Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley was born on August 30, 1797, in London, was a Romantic period novelist best known for her novel Frankenstein. She was the daughter of political philosopher William Godwin and feminist writer Mary Wollstonecraft. Her mother died shortly after her birth, leaving her to be raised by her father. 

In 1814, Mary Shelley married Percy Shelley, they eloped in Europe, and faced societal detriment. The lost several of their children; however, Mary continued to write and support Percy's endevors.

After Percy's death in 1822, Mary returned to England and focused on her writing and editing Percy's works.

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
10 Sep 1797

Death of Mary Wollstonecraft

Eleven days after the birth of Mary Shelley, Mary Wollstonecraft passed away due to complications of childbirth, during the birth of her second daughter Mary Shelly.  Specifically puerperal fever ,also known as childbed fever, which was a common and often fatal condition at the time.

 Wollstonecraft was buried at Old St Pancras Churchyard in London. Her remains were later moved to the Shelley tomb in Bournemouth. 

Wollstonecraft's passing was a significant loss to the literary and intellectual community. 

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
1 Jan 1818

Publication of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

"Frankenstein", written by Mary Shelley and published in 1818, is a work of Gothic literature and one of the earliest examples of science fiction. The novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a creature in an scientific experiment. 

Mary Shelley conceived the idea for "Frankenstein" during a stay in Switzerland in 1816, inspired by a ghost story challenge among friends, including her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley and Lord Byron.

The creature's struggle with identity and acceptance can be seen as a reflection of societal expectations and gender roles. Some analyses suggest that the creature's violent behavior stems from his rejection and isolation, paralleling the experiences of marginalized groups, including women. These feminist interpretations reveal deeper layers of the novel, making it not just a Gothic horror story but also a commentary on gender and societal norms. 

This is a novel of literacy innovation, an early example of science fiction, and a remarkable accomplishment for female authors. To take success over male authors, and still inspire discussions on ethics, science, and humanitiy is an increadiable achievement. 

Docka, Jackie. “Frankenstein: A Feminist Interpretation of Gender Construction.” Augsburg Honors Review, vol. 11, no. 1, Dec. 2018, idun.augsburg.edu/honors_review/vol11/iss1/1/.

“Frankenstein (the Original 1818 ‘Uncensored’ Edition) Ebook by Mary Shelley - Rakuten Kobo.” Rakuten Kobo, Kobo, 2024, www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/frankenstein-the-original-1818-uncensored-edition. Accessed 8 May 2025.

‌

‌

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
circa. 1825

Publication of To a Little Invisible Being by Anna Letitia Barbauld

Anna Letitia Barbauld's poem To a Little Invisible Being Who is Expected Soon to Become Visible is a tender and intimate piece that reflects the anticipation and joy of expecting a child.

It is in the perspective of an expecting mother and discusses the emotions and thoughts as she waits for her baby. The poem celebrates the arrival of life, expressing joy and anticipation. The mother's voice conveys a sense of wonder and excitement, emphasizing the positive aspects of pregnancy and the hope for the future. 

By giving voice to these experiences, Barbauld highlights the importance of women's roles and contributions to society.  The mother's voice in the poem is empowered and strong, reflecting her role as a creator and nurturer. This portrayal challenges traditional notions of women's roles, presenting motherhood as a source of strength and empowerment. Barbauld's poem is an important contribution to Romantic literature, offering a female perspective that was often under represented in the literary canon. Her work helps to broaden the scope of Romantic poetry by including women's voices and experiences.

EILeditor. “To a Little Invisible Being by Anna Laetitia Barbauld.” Excellence in Literature by Janice Campbell, 27 Nov. 2023, www.excellence-in-literature.com/to-a-little-invisible-being-by-barbauld/.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
9 Mar 1825

Death of Anna Letitia Barbauld

Anna Letitia Barbauld passed away on March 9, 1825, in Stoke Newington, at the age of 82. 

She spent her late years continueing to write and engaging in literary studies. Her death marked the end of a long and influential career as a poet, essayist, literary critic, and educator. Barbauld's contributions to literature, particularly her innovative works for children and her advocacy for social and political reform, left a lasting legacy. 

Foundation, Poetry. “Anna Lætitia Barbauld.” Poetry Foundation, 15 May 2020, www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/anna-laetitia-barbauld.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
5 Dec 1830

Birth of Christina Rossetti

Christina was the youngest child in a highly talented family.  Christina was educated at home, where she was exposed to a rich literary environment. 

 She began writing at a young age, and her first published work appeared in 1850 under a pseudonym.  Goblin Market and Other Poems, established her as a significant poet of her time.

Christina faced several personal challenges, including health issues. She was diagnosed with Graves' disease in 1871, which affected her appearance and health. Despite her health problems, she continued to write and publish poetry.

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
circa. 1862

Publication of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti

Goblin Market" is one of Christina Rossetti's most famous and intriguing poems. 

The poem tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling exotic fruits. Laura succumbs to the temptation and eats the goblin fruit, which leads to dire consequences. Lizzie, in an act of self-sacrifice, confronts the goblins to save her sister, ultimately restoring Laura's health. The bond between the sisters is a key theme, highlighting the strength of their relationship. 

 The poem reflects Victorian attitudes towards women, sexuality, and morality. "Goblin Market" has been interpreted in various ways, including as a religious allegory, a critique of Victorian gender roles, and a celebration of female solidarity.  Christina Rossetti uses her voice in Goblin Market to critique the Victorian Era view on womens roles, and sexuality. 

Bovey, Lee-James. “Analysis of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti.” Poem Analysis, 2 Apr. 2017, poemanalysis.com/christina-rossetti/goblin-market/.

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
29 Dec 1895

Death of Christina Rossetti

Christina Rossetti had been suffering from cancer, which ultimately led to her death. Rossetti was buried on January 2, 1895, in the family grave on the west side of Highgate Cemetery . This cemetery is known for its historical significance and the notable figures interred there.

Bryson, John. “Christina Rossetti | English Poet.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 25 Dec. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Christina-Rossetti.

‌

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
15 Sep 1977

Birth of Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie was born on September 15, 1977, in Enugu, Nigeria. She grew up on the campus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where her father was a professor and her mother was the first female registrar. 

She moved to the United States  in 1997, to study political science. 

Adichie splits her time between Nigeria and the United States and continues to be a powerful voice in contemporary discussions. Adichie's works have gained international acclaim and are considered significant contributions to contemporary literature. Adichie's contributions to literature provide valuable perspectives that enhance the study of British literature

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie | Biography, Books, Drea, Count, Ted Talk, Education, & Facts | Britannica

 Kaitlyn Wilfong
18 Mar 2013

Publication of Checking Out by Chimaminda Ngozi Adichi

The story follows Obinze, a Nigerian immigrant living in London, who struggles with his undocumented status after his visa expires. Obinze's journey highlights the complexities of immigration and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. He meets two Angolans who offer to arrange a marriage for him to gain citizenship, leading to a series of events that explore themes of identity, belonging, and the sacrifices made for a better life. Adichie's narrative style in "Checking Out" is poignant and insightful, capturing the nuances of Obinze's experiences and the broader issues faced by immigrants. it can also be viewed through a feminist lens. Adichie is well-known for her feminist activism and often incorporates themes of gender and equality into her work. In "Checking Out," the character Cleotilde, who agrees to a sham marriage to help Obinze, can be seen as navigating her own challenges within a patriarchal society. Her story reflects the broader struggles women face in terms of autonomy and economic independence. 

This work critiques the social injustices women face, and weaves the critisim into an amazing work of story telling. 

S, Rajitha. “Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Her Feminist Activism through Storytelling.” Feminism in India, 15 Sept. 2019, feminisminindia.com/2019/09/16/chimamanda-ngozi-adichie-feminist-activism-storytelling/.

 Kaitlyn Wilfong