Marie Corelli (1855–1924,) born Mary Mackay, was a British novelist known for her romantic, melodramatic fiction, which captivated Victorian readers. Educated by governesses and trained as a pianist, she turned to writing in 1885, becoming one of the era’s most widely read authors.
Born in London, Corelli débuted with A Romance of Two Worlds (1886,) exploring psychic experiences—a theme she revisited. She gained fame with Barabbas: A Dream of the World’s Tragedy (1893,) a dramatic retelling of the Crucifixion, and The Sorrows of Satan (1895,) critiquing materialism and moral decay.
Corelli wrote over 20 novels, blending mysticism, Christianity, and social commentary. Notable works include The Mighty Atom (1896,) The Master-Christian (1900,) Temporal Power (1902,) and The Life Everlasting (1911.) Her books outsold contemporaries like Arthur Conan Doyle and H.G. Wells, despite mixed reviews. While some criticized her sentimental moralism, admirers included William Ewart Gladstone and Oscar Wilde.
Later, Corelli worked to preserve historic buildings in Stratford-upon-Avon, where she lived. Her home, Mason Croft, now houses the University of Birmingham’s Shakespeare Institute, ensuring her legacy beyond literature.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Marie Corelli
If we choose to be no more than clods of clay, then we shall be used as clods of clay for braver feet to tread on.
—Marie Corelli
Topics: Health, Positive Attitudes, Optimism
I never married because there was no need. I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog which growls every morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon and a cat that comes home late at night.
—Marie Corelli
Topics: Marriage
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