The Fortunate Mistress, also known as A History of the Life of Mademoiselle de Beleau, is a novel by Daniel Defoe. It tells the story of Roxana, a French-born woman who grows up in England and marries a handsome but vain man at the age of fifteen. After eight years of marriage, during which time her husband spends all of their money, Roxana is left penniless with five children. Roxana appeals for aid to her husband's relatives, but they all refuse except for one old aunt, who is unable to provide much assistance. Roxana's loyal maid, Amy, refuses to abandon her mistress even though she receives no pay for her work. Another poor woman whom Roxana had helped in the past also offers her assistance. Amy eventually comes up with a plan to force Roxana's sister-in-law to take in the children, which succeeds. Although the sister-in-law is cruel, her husband is kind and helps to raise the children. How will Roxana's children get a happy life? What will happen to Roxana? The novel explores themes of poverty, family, and the struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving world.
Daniel Defoe (1660-1731) was an English writer, journalist, and businessman who is best known for his novels, particularly Robinson Crusoe, which is widely considered to be one of the first novels in the English language. Defoe was born in London to a wealthy Presbyterian family and was educated at a dissenting academy. Defoe initially worked in the hosiery trade but later turned to writing, publishing a variety of political and social commentary in newspapers and pamphlets. He was a prolific writer, producing over 500 works during his lifetime, including novels, poetry, and essays. Defoe's most famous novel, Robinson Crusoe, was published in 1719 and tells the story of a man who is shipwrecked on a deserted island and must survive on his own. The novel was a huge success and has been translated into numerous languages. In addition to his literary pursuits, Defoe was involved in politics and served as a spy and propagandist for the British government. He was imprisoned several times for his controversial writings, including his support for religious toleration and his criticisms of the government. Defoe died in 1731 and is remembered as one of the most important figures in English literature, as well as a pioneering journalist and political commentator.
