Eliza Haywood, English actress and poet (b. 1693)

Eliza Haywood, born Elizabeth Fowler around 1693, emerged as a remarkable literary trailblazer in 18th-century England, leaving an indelible mark as a prolific writer, an actress, and a pioneering publisher before her death on February 25, 1756. Though her immense contributions were somewhat overshadowed for centuries, a significant resurgence of interest and critical acclaim for her extensive body of work began to flourish in the 1980s, firmly re-establishing her crucial place in English literary history. Indeed, Haywood was described by scholars as "prolific even by the standards of a prolific age," a testament to her astonishing output of over 70 distinct works published throughout her lifetime, spanning a remarkable array of genres. Today, Eliza Haywood is predominantly celebrated and studied as one of the true 18th-century founders of the novel in English, having laid essential groundwork for the genre's development.

Early Life and Theatrical Beginnings

While precise details about Eliza Haywood's early life remain somewhat scarce, it is believed she was born Elizabeth Fowler in London around 1693, likely into a respectable family, though her specific parentage is debated. Her journey into the public eye began not with the pen, but on the stage. Haywood embarked on an acting career in the late 1710s, performing at venues like the Lincoln's Inn Fields Theatre. Although she likely played minor roles, this experience provided her with an intimate understanding of dramatic structure, character development, and public taste—all invaluable assets for her burgeoning literary career. The theatre also offered one of the few avenues for women of her era to achieve a degree of public visibility and financial independence, setting the stage for her ambitious future endeavors.

A Prolific Pen: The Literary Career of Eliza Haywood

Eliza Haywood's literary output was nothing short of extraordinary, reflecting her sharp intellect and keen observation of society. Her writing career truly took flight with the publication of her first novel, Love in Excess; or, The Fatal Enquiry, which appeared in three parts between 1719 and 1720. This work was an immediate success, captivating readers with its intricate plot, emotional depth, and daring exploration of female desire and social constraints, becoming a landmark example of early amatory fiction. Throughout her career, Haywood tackled a vast spectrum of genres:

Haywood's works were incredibly popular in their day, though sometimes controversial. She faced criticism and satire, most famously from Alexander Pope in his scathing mock-heroic poem The Dunciad (1728), which often targeted literary figures of his time, especially women, who challenged conventional norms. Despite this, her popularity persisted, a testament to her ability to connect with a broad readership.

Pioneering Publisher and Entrepreneur

Beyond her prolific writing, Eliza Haywood distinguished herself as a trailblazer in the business side of literature, functioning not just as an author but also as a publisher. Her involvement in producing The Female Spectator was a significant entrepreneurial venture. In an age where publishing was dominated by men, Haywood actively managed the editorial and commercial aspects of her periodical, demonstrating an impressive degree of independence and business acumen. This hands-on approach allowed her to control the content and distribution of her work, a rare feat for a woman in 18th-century England, solidifying her reputation as a formidable figure in the burgeoning literary marketplace.

Legacy and Modern Rediscovery

For many years following her death, Eliza Haywood's literary reputation suffered. Her amatory novels were often dismissed as scandalous or superficial by later Victorian critics who imposed different moral standards. However, a pivotal shift in scholarly interest and recognition began in the 1980s. Fueled by advancements in feminist literary criticism and a broader re-evaluation of overlooked voices, scholars began to explore the depth, complexity, and social critique embedded within Haywood's narratives. Figures like Ruth Bernard Yeazell and Ros Ballaster were instrumental in leading this rediscovery, highlighting her sophisticated narrative techniques, her exploration of female subjectivity, and her crucial role in the development of the novel form. Today, Eliza Haywood stands as a foundational figure in English literature, essential for understanding the origins of the novel, the challenges faced by early women writers, and the vibrant, often turbulent, literary culture of the 18th century.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eliza Haywood

Who was Eliza Haywood?
Eliza Haywood, born Elizabeth Fowler (c. 1693 – 1756), was an influential 18th-century English writer, actress, and publisher. She is celebrated for her vast literary output and her foundational role in the development of the English novel.
When did Eliza Haywood live and die?
Eliza Haywood was born around 1693 and passed away on February 25, 1756.
What is Eliza Haywood famous for?
She is primarily famous for being one of the most prolific and significant 18th-century novelists, whose work greatly contributed to shaping the early English novel. She is also known for being an actress and, notably, as the editor and publisher of The Female Spectator, often considered the first periodical written by and for women.
What types of works did she write?
Eliza Haywood wrote a diverse range of works, including fiction (novels and novellas), drama, poetry, translations, and conduct literature. Her most famous fictional works include Love in Excess and The History of Miss Betsy Thoughtless.
When did interest in her work revive?
After a period of relative obscurity, significant academic and critical interest in Eliza Haywood's literary works experienced a major revival starting in the 1980s, driven by new approaches in feminist literary criticism and historical scholarship.
Why is she considered a founder of the English novel?
Haywood's extensive body of fiction, with its innovative narrative structures, complex character development, and exploration of social themes, laid much of the groundwork for the novel as a distinct literary genre in England. Her early and influential works helped establish the conventions that later novelists would build upon.