Letter XIII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Nature and the Sublime

  Wollstonecraft contrasts the sublime grandeur of Norwegian landscapes with the more cultivated, elegant scenery near Christiania, reflecting on the balance of happiness in northern climates.

• Commerce and Morality

  Critique of commerce as a pursuit that undermines honesty and humanity, illustrated by merchants' tricks during the war and the grain speculation that sparked unrest.

• Social Critique and Class

  Observations on Norwegian society, including the love of titles and courtly distinctions, the condition of slaves, and the narrowness of the merchant class.

Characters to notice

• Mary Wollstonecraft

  Narrator and observer, reflecting on nature, society, and her own melancholy.

• Mr. Anker

  Owner of ironworks at Christiania, targeted by a mob during grain scarcity protests.

Key passages

• “The appearance of the circumjacent country had been preparing me for the change of scene which was to greet me when I reached the coast. For the grand features of nature had been dwindling into prettiness as I advanced; yet the rocks, on a smaller scale, were finely wooded to the water’s edge.”

  The surrounding landscape had hinted at the transformation awaiting me at the coast, as the majestic natural scenery gradually gave way to a more delicate beauty, though the smaller rocks remained lush with trees along the shoreline.

  Wollstonecraft describes the shift from sublime to picturesque as she approaches the coast.

• “I am now more than ever convinced that it is an intercourse with men of science and artists which not only diffuses taste, but gives that freedom to the understanding without which I have seldom met with much benevolence of character on a large scale.”

  I am increasingly certain that interaction with scientists and artists spreads refinement and intellectual liberty, without which I have rarely observed genuine kindness on a broad level.

  Wollstonecraft argues that intellectual exchange fosters both taste and moral character.

• “How much of the virtue which appears in the world is put on for the world? And how little dictated by self-respect?—so little, that I am ready to repeat the old question, and ask, Where is truth, or rather principle, to be found?”

  How much of the virtue we see is merely performed for public approval, and how little stems from genuine self-respect? So little that I find myself asking once again where truth and principle truly reside.

  Wollstonecraft questions the authenticity of public virtue and the scarcity of true principle.

• “At present black melancholy hovers round my footsteps; and sorrow sheds a mildew over all the future prospects, which hope no longer gilds.”

  Now a dark melancholy follows me, and grief tarnishes every future possibility, which hope no longer brightens.

  Wollstonecraft expresses deep personal despair and loss of hope.

• “You may think me too severe on commerce, but from the manner it is at present carried on little can be advanced in favour of a pursuit that wears out the most sacred principles of humanity and rectitude.”

  You might consider my criticism of commerce too harsh, but given how it is currently conducted, there is little to praise in an activity that erodes the most fundamental principles of humanity and integrity.

  Wollstonecraft defends her critique of commerce as a corrupting force.