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Letters From The North Of Europe Or Journal Of Travels In Holland Denmark

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Letters from the north of Europe; or a journal of travels in Holland, Denmark [&c.]

by Horace Walpole

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8719 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	516 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

Letters From The North Of Europe Or Journal Of Travels In Holland Denmark is a travelogue written by Mary Wollstonecraft in 1796. The book describes her experiences traveling through Holland, Denmark, and Norway. Wollstonecraft was a pioneering feminist and philosopher, and her travelogue is a valuable source of information about the social and political conditions of Europe in the late 18th century.

Background

Wollstonecraft was born in London in 1759. She was the daughter of a weaver and a silk merchant. Wollstonecraft's parents were poor, and she had to work from a young age to help support her family. She was largely self-educated, and she developed a passion for reading and writing.

In 1788, Wollstonecraft published her first book, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. The book argued that women were entitled to the same rights as men, and it became a foundational text of the feminist movement.

In 1792, Wollstonecraft traveled to France to witness the French Revolution firsthand. She was initially enthusiastic about the Revolution, but she became disillusioned with it as it became more violent.

In 1795, Wollstonecraft met the American philosopher Gilbert Imlay. The two fell in love, and they had a daughter together. However, Imlay eventually abandoned Wollstonecraft and their daughter.

Journey to the North

In 1796, Wollstonecraft decided to travel to the north of Europe in an attempt to recover from her heartbreak. She traveled through Holland, Denmark, and Norway.

Wollstonecraft's journey was not without its challenges. She was often alone, and she had to deal with difficult weather conditions. However, she also had many positive experiences. She met interesting people, and she learned a great deal about the different cultures of the countries she visited.

Observations on Holland

Wollstonecraft was impressed by the cleanliness and order of Holland. She noted that the Dutch people were very industrious, and she praised their system of government. However, she was also critical of the Dutch for their lack of tolerance for religious dissent.

Wollstonecraft visited the city of Amsterdam, which she described as "a vast and magnificent city." She was particularly impressed by the city's canals and its many museums.

Observations on Denmark

Wollstonecraft found Denmark to be a more relaxed and tolerant country than Holland. She praised the Danish people for their kindness and hospitality. However, she was also critical of the Danish government for its censorship of the press.

Wollstonecraft visited the city of Copenhagen, which she described as "a handsome and well-built city." She was particularly impressed by the city's royal palace and its many gardens.

Observations on Norway

Wollstonecraft was amazed by the natural beauty of Norway. She described the country's mountains, fjords, and forests as "sublime." She also praised the Norwegian people for their independence and their love of freedom.

Wollstonecraft visited the city of Oslo, which she described as "a small and insignificant town." However, she was impressed by the city's location on the Oslo Fjord.

Legacy

Letters From The North Of Europe Or Journal Of Travels In Holland Denmark is a valuable source of information about the social and political conditions of Europe in the late 18th century. Wollstonecraft was a keen observer, and she provides a unique perspective on the

Letters from the north of Europe; or a journal of travels in Holland, Denmark [&c.]

by Horace Walpole

4 out of 5