The Contract

by Margaret Cavendish

The Contract is a book written by Margaret Cavendish. It is a work of fiction that explores the themes of power, gender, and society in the 17th century. The story follows the protagonist, Lady Lucretia, as she negotiates a contract with her husband, Lord Hubert, to gain more control over her life and finances. The contract stipulates that Lady Lucretia will have the power to make decisions about her own property and that Lord Hubert will provide her with a yearly allowance. However, as Lady Lucretia gains more power, she also faces opposition from those who believe that women should not have such authority. The novel presents a critique of the patriarchal society of the time and explores the possibilities of female empowerment. It is a thought-provoking and engaging read that will appeal to anyone interested in feminist literature, historical fiction, or social commentary.But the old Gentleman, perceiving his neglect towards his Neece, and hearing of his Affections to that Lady, strove by all the Care and Industry he could to give her such Breeding as might win his Love; not that he was negligent before she was contracted to him; for from the time of four years old, she was taught all that her Age was capable of, as to sing, and to dance; for he would have this Artificial Motion become as natural, and to grow in perfection, as she grew in years.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

50 pages, Hardcover

Published May 23, 2010

About the author

Margaret Lucas Cavendish, Duchess of Newcastle, was the youngest child of a wealthy Essex family. At the age of 20 she became Maid of Honour to Queen Henrietta Maria and traveled with her into Persian exile in 1644. There she married William Cavendish, Marquis (later Duke) of Newcastle.

Between 1653 and 1668 she published many books on a wide variety of subjects, including many stories that are now regarded as some of the earliest examples of science fiction.

Reviews

[Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful writing style. Has the wit, humour and absurdity of Shakespeare. Cavendish was such a talented writer, her personal philosophy is interwoven throughout- what a woman. And it was written in the mid-1600's and still manages to hold up today!!!!!!