The Duchess Who Wasn’t Day – August 27, 2025
Every year on August 27, literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike come together to celebrate The Duchess Who Wasn’t Day, a delightful occasion that pays homage to the life and works of Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, the Victorian-era novelist who penned the famous phrase, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” This day is a tribute to her wit, creativity, and literary legacy that continues to captivate readers even today.
Why Celebrate The Duchess Who Wasn’t Day?
Margaret Wolfe Hungerford, born in Ireland in the mid-19th century, was a prolific author who wrote under the pseudonym “The Duchess” to navigate the constraints placed on women writers of her time. Despite societal challenges, she left an indelible mark on the literary world, crafting novels filled with wit, romance, and keen observations of human nature. Though she passed away at a young age, her works, including Molly Bawn, continue to resonate with readers around the globe. This day is an opportunity to celebrate her extraordinary talent and the enduring relevance of her words.
The History Behind the Day
The Duchess Who Wasn’t Day was established to honor Hungerford’s contributions to literature and to highlight the challenges faced by women writers in the 19th century. It serves as a reminder of the barriers she broke through to pave the way for future generations of female authors. The date, August 27, marks an important moment in her literary journey, as it coincides with the publication anniversary of one of her most famous works.
How to Celebrate The Duchess Who Wasn’t Day
There are plenty of creative ways to honor Margaret Wolfe Hungerford’s legacy on this special day:
- Read her novels: Pick up a copy of Molly Bawn or any of her other works to immerse yourself in her timeless storytelling.
- Host a book club: Gather friends to discuss her novels and explore the themes and characters she brought to life.
- Learn about women writers: Use this day to study the history of female authors and their contributions to literature.
- Share her quotes: Post your favorite lines from her books on social media to spread her wisdom and wit.
Fun Facts About Margaret Wolfe Hungerford
- She wrote over 40 novels, many of which were published anonymously or under her pseudonym.
- Her famous phrase, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” first appeared in her novel Molly Bawn.
- Despite her success, she often had to juggle her writing career with managing her household and raising her children.
A Call to Action
This August 27, take a moment to celebrate the life and works of Margaret Wolfe Hungerford. Whether you dive into her novels, share her inspiring quotes, or learn about the challenges faced by women writers of her time, your participation helps keep her legacy alive. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #TheDuchessWhoWasntDay and let the world know why her words still matter today!
