The Blazing World and Other Writings

by Margaret Cavendish
The Blazing World and Other Writings cover
Good Books rating 2.77
Nonfiction
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  • ID: 7665
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780140433722
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 1994-03-31
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3

Margaret Cavendish was a remarkable figure of the seventeenth century, daring to enter the male-dominated realms of politics, science, philosophy, and literature. This volume showcases three of her works that delve into the role of women, offering a unique perspective on gender dynamics and societal expectations of the time. /n/n Cavendish's writings are not only historically significant but also provide a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a woman who defied conventions. Her works are a testament to her intellect and courage, making this collection a must-read for those interested in early feminist thought and the evolution of women's roles in society.

Reviews
Triumph of the Now · 2020-08-02
challenging 1.00

The book was described as a chore to read. The writing style is long-winded and difficult to follow. It is a 1666 piece that feels out of touch with modern readers.

The reviewer found The Blazing World to be a challenging read, primarily due to its dense and long-winded writing style. The sentences are so lengthy that there are only a few per page, making it difficult to follow the narrative. Written in 1666, the text feels very much of its time and can be hard to connect with for modern readers. Despite its historical significance, the reviewer struggled to find enjoyment in the reading experience. The book's themes and ideas are interesting, but the execution falls short for contemporary audiences.

Quick quotes

    Not for a very long while have I read something such a chore to get through.

    The Blazing World is a 1666 piece that feels very much of its time.

    The writing style is long-winded and difficult to follow.

TTRPBC · 2019-05-07
engaging 3.80

The book has an imaginative sweep that is gripping. However, it lacks visceral cliff-hangers.

The reviewer found the overall imaginative sweep of The Blazing World to be gripping and engaging. The book's unique ideas and creative world-building make it a compelling read. However, the reviewer notes that it lacks the visceral cliff-hangers found in more modern fiction, which might make it less exciting for some readers. The book's strength lies in its imaginative scope and the way it challenges the reader to think differently about society and gender roles. While it may not be a page-turner in the traditional sense, it offers a rich and rewarding reading experience for those willing to engage with its ideas.

Quick quotes

    Many things do happen, and I found the overall imaginative sweep gripping.

    You won't find a visceral cliff-hanger every few pages.

    The book's strength lies in its imaginative scope and the way it challenges the reader to think differently.

Warm Days Will Never Cease · 2017-05-05
thought-provoking 3.50

The book depicts a utopian world where the Empress challenges gender roles. The writing is dense but thought-provoking.

The reviewer appreciates the utopian world depicted in The Blazing World, where the Empress is knowledgeable in science and philosophy and challenges accepted gender roles. The writing is dense and can be difficult to get through, but the ideas presented are thought-provoking and worth the effort. The book offers a unique perspective on gender and society, making it a valuable read despite its challenges. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of these themes to be its strongest point, even if the writing style is not always accessible.

Quick quotes

    It depicts a peaceful Utopian world where the Empress is knowledgeable in science and philosophy and challenges accepted gender roles.

    It's a book that requires patience and an open mind.

    The ideas presented are thought-provoking and worth the effort.

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