Mary Sidney Herbert, born in 1561, played a pivotal role as a writer and patron during Elizabethan England, despite the societal constraints on women's literary endeavors at the time. She distinguished herself not only through her writing but also through her patronage of the arts, particularly after the death of her brother, Sir Philip Sidney.
Early Life and Education
- Born: October 27, 1561, at Tickenhall near Bewdley, Worcestershire
- Parents: Sir Henry Sidney and Mary Dudley
- Siblings: Philip, Robert, Thomas, and Ambrosia
Mary received an exceptional education for a woman of her time, including Latin, French, and Italian languages and literatures, as well as skills in needlework, lute playing, and singing.
Marriage and Family
- Married: Henry Herbert, Earl of Pembroke
- Children:
- Katherine
- Anne
- William (later the third Earl of Pembroke)
- Philip (later Earl of Montgomery)
Her marriage to Henry Herbert, a powerful nobleman and ally of her father and uncle, provided her with a platform to support literature and the arts.
Literary Career
Mary Sidney's literary career began in earnest after personal tragedies, including the deaths of her daughter Katherine and her brother Philip. She initially focused on honoring her brother's memory by encouraging and publishing works dedicated to him.
Works and Contributions
Her literary works encompassed various genres considered appropriate for women at the time, such as translation, dedication, elegy, and encomium. Notably, she completed Philip Sidney's translation of the Psalms and published her own translations from French and Italian, reflecting her interest in bringing continental literary forms to England.
Translation and Influence
Mary Sidney's translation of Robert Garnier's 'Marc Antoine' and Philippe de Mornay's 'Discours de la vie et de la mort' helped popularize historical drama and philosophical discourse in English literature. Her translations were not only literary endeavors but also served as indirect political commentary during the turbulent Elizabethan period.
The Psalms
One of her most significant achievements was her metric translation of Psalms 44-150. This project, started after Philip Sidney's death, aimed to provide accessible versions of the Psalms for private devotion and public worship, aligning closely with Protestant interpretations and reflecting her deep religious commitment.
Later Life and Legacy
In her later years, Mary Sidney navigated political challenges, especially after her husband's death and during the transition from Elizabethan to Jacobean England. Despite losing influence at court, she remained active in defending family interests and continued to patronize literature and the arts.
Conclusion
Mary Sidney Herbert, Countess of Pembroke, stands as a pioneering figure in Elizabethan literature and patronage. Her contributions not only enriched English literary traditions but also challenged gender norms of her time, paving the way for future generations of women writers and intellectuals.