Marie de Gournay

Marie de Gournay (1565 - 1645) was an admirer of Michel de Montaigne, who having read his works during her teens, went to meet him and eventually became his "adopted daughter". After Montaigne's death, de Gournay edited his works and it is for this that she is best known. She was, however, also a writer in her own right, composing a novel and a number of other literary compositions, including two feminist tracts, The Equality of Men and Women and The Ladies' Grievance. Gournay was also concerned with the human rights of women. In her novel titled Le Proumenoir she explored the dangers women face when they become dependent on men. She insisted that women be educated.