Female authors have a rich history of penning hundreds of works of literature and have left a lasting impression in the world of literature. From famous novels to inspiring non-fiction pieces, female authors have published many works of art that have changed the way we think and imagine. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most famous female authors and their famous works.
Louisa May Alcott
Louisa May Alcott was an American novelist, most famous for her beloved novel ‘Little Women.’ The novel follows the lives of the four young March sisters living during the Civil War. It is generally considered one of the most beloved works of fiction in the United States and has been adapted into film, stage, and musicals. Alcott was an active supporter of abolition and women’s rights during her life. Her other popular works include ‘Little Men,’ ‘An Old-Fashioned Girl,’ and ‘Jo’s Boys.’
Jane Austen
Jane Austen is one of the most beloved and renowned authors in English literature. She was a British novelist famous for her works of romantic fiction, such as ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ ‘Sense and Sensibility,’ and ‘Emma.’ She is well known for her poignancy and wittiness in her writing and her novels are among the most popular in the English language. Her works are held in high regard and are often adapted into stage and screen adaptations.
Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley was an English author most famously known for her book ‘Frankenstein’ which is a seminal work of horror and gothic literature. The novel follows Victor Frankenstein and his creation of an artificial life form which ultimately become sinister and threatens his loved ones. Shelley was only 21 when ‘Frankenstein’ was first published in 1818 and she is known for being a crucial part of the Romantic movement.
Gertrude Stein
Gertrude Stein was an American author and collector of modern art. She wrote several novels and works of poetry, but is most well known for her ‘The Autobiograpy of Alice B. Toklas.’ This novel set a trend for autobiography as literature and was published as a ‘conversational collection’ which ranged from comedy to travel to desserts. Stein was also a patron of modern art collecting works from Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Juan Gris.
Harper Lee
Harper Lee is a Pulitzer Prize-winning American novelist who is most famous for her 1960 novel ‘To Kill a Mockingbird.’ The novel follows Scout Finch, a young girl in a small American town, as she discovers the racism and social divisions of the South. The novel was adapted into an award-winning film in 1962 and was awarded with a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2007.
Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou was an American author, poet, and civil rights activist. She is best known for her poignant autobiographical works, such as ‘I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings’ and ‘A Song Flung Up To Heaven.’ Her works are praised for their poignancy and insight into subjects such as racism, identity, and trauma. In addition to writing, Angelou was an acclaimed poet and speaker, delivering her famous commencement speech ‘The Pulse of Life’ at Wake Forest University in 2006.
Sylvia Plath
Sylvia Plath was a poet and novelist from the United States. She is often hailed as one of the most important and influential post-World War II poets. Her most famous works include ‘Ariel’ (1961) and ‘The Bell Jar’ (1963). She is often praised for her use of imagery and her exploration of depression and suicide in her works. Her works are largely based on her own struggles with mental illness, gender roles, and family relationships.
Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison was an American author, essayist, and professor. She is best known for her works of fiction, such as ‘Beloved’ (1988), ‘Song of Solomon’ (1977), and ‘The Bluest Eye’ (1970). She explored race and racism, gender, love, and family in her works. Additionally, she was the first African-American woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature (1993).
Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl was a British author, famous for his children’s books, such as ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ and ‘James and the Giant Peach.’ He also wrote adult fiction including ‘The Witches’ (1983) and ‘Matilda’ (1988). His works have been adapted into films and musicals, including the 1971 ‘Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory’ movie. He is known for his quirky and imaginative stories, as well as his use of dark humor.
In this article, we’ve explored the works of some of the most famous female authors in history. From the romantic tales of Jane Austen to the scares of Mary Shelley and the poignancy of Maya Angelou, there’s something for everyone. Each of these authors has left a lasting mark on literature and their works will continue to be enjoyed and celebrated for years to come.