Elizabeth Montagu, the queen of the bluestockings, Volume 1 (of 2) : $b Her correspondence from 1720 to 1761

Delve into the lively world of an 18th‑century social pioneer through her own words. This collection gathers dozens of letters she wrote and received between 1720 and 1761, revealing the mind of the woman who came to be known as the queen of the Bluestocking circle. Her correspondence captures the wit, curiosity, and ambition that propelled her salons into the cultural heart of Britain.

Listeners will hear candid observations on everything from the cost of a loaf of bread to the latest fashions of London, as well as spirited debates on literature, philosophy, and religion. The letters also introduce a dazzling cast of friends—poets, philosophers, artists, and even foreign dignitaries—offering a snapshot of the intellectual networks that shaped the era. The editor’s careful selection highlights the most vivid exchanges while preserving the intimate tone of the original missives.

Presented with thoughtful annotations, the volume invites you to experience the texture of everyday life and the vibrant exchange of ideas that defined a remarkable period in social history.