Perdita: The Memoirs of Mary Robinson

The talented Mary Robinson (1758-1800) captivated the Prince of Wales when she played `Perdita' at Drury Lane. Mrs. Robinson's genius and engaging manners"" attracted some of the most famous figures of the day, Sir Joshua Reynolds, William Godwin, and David Garrick among them. The Duchess of Devonshire became her patron and Gainsborough painted her portrait. In addition to acting and her amours, she published novels, plays, and poetry. The apparent humility of these memoirs belies Robinson's enormous personal and professional success.