Mary Shelley had a complex relationship with her father, William Godwin, who was a prominent philosopher and writer. After the death of her mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, shortly after Mary’s birth, Godwin became the sole parent responsible for her upbringing. He was known for his radical ideas and maintained a close, intellectual environment that undoubtedly influenced Mary’s literary pursuits.
Mary had a deep admiration for her father, but their relationship was not without its challenges. Godwin was often preoccupied with his philosophical work and had a somewhat distant, perhaps even unconventional parenting style. This distance sometimes left Mary feeling neglected and yearning for a warmer connection.
As Mary grew older, she began to assert her independence, especially when she eloped with Percy Bysshe Shelley, a decision that strained her relationship with Godwin. He disapproved of the marriage, which led to a significant rift between them, causing Mary to grapple with feelings of loyalty towards her father while also pursuing her own desires.
Despite their differences and periods of estrangement, Godwin and Mary eventually reconciled. She continued to respect his intellect and legacy, often seeking his opinion on her work. Ultimately, Mary Shelley’s relationship with her father was marked by both admiration and conflict, shaping her identity and artistic voice in profound ways.