The Duchess Who Wasn't Day, celebrated on August 27th, honors the life and legacy of Victorian novelist Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, best known for her novel Molly Bawn. The title of this day is a playful nod to her use of the pseudonym "The Duchess," under which she published many of her works. Although Hungerford was a prolific and popular author in her time, her name is not as widely recognized today, making this day a tribute to her contributions to literature.
Margaret Wolfe Hungerford's novels were known for their wit, charm, and romantic plots, appealing to a broad audience in the late 19th century. Her most famous line, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," has since become a timeless aphorism, still quoted in discussions about aesthetics and subjective perception. The Duchess Who Wasn't Day celebrates not only her literary achievements but also the broader role of women writers in the Victorian era, who often had to use male or ambiguous pen names to gain recognition.
On this day, literary enthusiasts may revisit Hungerford's works or explore the writings of other women who, like her, made significant contributions to literature but remain underappreciated. It’s also a time to reflect on the challenges women writers faced in getting their voices heard and how those challenges have evolved over time.
The Duchess Who Wasn't Day serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of authors who, despite societal constraints, managed to create works that continue to resonate with readers today. It’s a celebration of literary creativity, persistence, and the timeless nature of good storytelling.