The Ascent of Mary Somerville in 19th Century Society [electronic resource] / by Elisabetta Strickland.

A peculiar childhood -- The two marriages -- New horizons in Paris -- The Grand Tour to Italy -- The nomadic life -- Portrait of a lady -- Taking part in the unification of Italy -- The death of William Somerville -- Garibaldi, the hero she never met -- Life in Naples -- A peaceful end -- Conclusions.

This biography traces the life and work of Mary Fairfax Somerville, whose extraordinary mathematical talent only came to light through fortuitous circumstances. Barely taught to read and write as a child, all the science she learned and mastered was self taught. In this delightful narrative the author takes up the challenge of discovering how Somerville came to be one of the most outstanding British women scientists and, furthermore, a popular writer. Particular attention is paid to the gender aspects of Somerville's success in what was, to put it mildly, a predominantly male domain.