Anthology of Neo-Latin Literature Written by Women

This anthology showcases Neo-Latin texts produced by women across Europe between circa 1400 and 1800, highlighting their contributions in both poetry and prose. Each chapter offers excerpts alongside accessible translations, with introductions and notes that contextualise the texts within their authors’ careers and the intellectual climate of their time. The selected works reflect a range of genres and themes, providing insights into women’s lives and their participation in literary culture during the early modern period. Examples include letters by Battista Malatesta da Montefeltro and poems by Anna Maria van Schurman.

Featuring works from various European countries, including Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Scandinavia, the Netherlands and Britain, the anthology is organised chronologically, allowing readers to appreciate the evolution of female voices in Neo-Latin literature. The texts presented reflect the diversity of women’s literary contributions and demonstrate the importance of considering a broad spectrum of voices in understanding early modern literary culture.