Hannah Cowley

Date of Birth: March 14, 1743

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: March 11, 1809

Biography

Hannah Cowley was an eminent English dramatist born on March 14, 1743, in Tiverton, Devon. She gained recognition as one of the most successful playwrights of her time, particularly noted for her comedic plays. Cowley’s works often explored themes of love, marriage, and social dynamics, blending humor with sharp social commentary. Her most famous play, “The Belle’s Stratagem,” first performed in 1780, received widespread acclaim and remains a classic in English theatre. Cowley was the daughter of Philip Parkhouse, a bookseller and printer, and was well-educated, which was uncommon for women of her era. She married Thomas Cowley, a journalist, in 1772, and the couple had several children. Despite her domestic responsibilities, Hannah Cowley managed to carve out a successful career in the male-dominated world of 18th-century theatre. Cowley’s career spanned several decades, and her plays were performed at prominent theatres such as Drury Lane and Covent Garden. Her works were celebrated for their wit, lively dialogue, and insightful commentary on contemporary society. Cowley passed away on March 11, 1809, in Tiverton, leaving behind a legacy as one of the foremost female playwrights of her time.

5 Interesting Facts about Hannah Cowley

1. Hannah Cowley wrote her first play, “The Runaway,” in just a few weeks, and it was successfully staged at Drury Lane in 1776.

2. “The Belle’s Stratagem,” one of her most famous plays, was performed more frequently than any other comedy during its first decade.

3. Cowley was a contemporary of Richard Brinsley Sheridan, another notable playwright, and her works were often compared to his.

4. She engaged in a public literary feud with poet Hannah More, which was a notable event in her career.

5. Cowley’s plays often featured strong, intelligent female characters, which was relatively progressive for her time.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hannah Cowley

1. “To know you have pleased is a pleasure in itself.”

2. “Wit, to be well defined, must be refined.”

3. “The heart that can’t bear the truth is a fool.”

4. “A woman’s power lies in her gentleness.”

5. “In love, as in politics, the only victory is retreat.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a dramatist in the 18th century, Hannah Cowley’s exact net worth is not well-documented. However, her plays were popular and frequently performed, which would have provided her with a respectable income for her time.

Children

Hannah Cowley had several children with her husband, Thomas Cowley. However, detailed records of her children’s names and lives are sparse. Her domestic life with her children is less well-documented compared to her professional achievements.