“A person should aspire to be an original, not a copy.”
—Queen Christina of Sweden (17th century)
They were passionate about power and politics. They were warriors for justice and equality. They sought knowledge and meaning. Girls and grannies, rebels and reformers, sovereigns and slaves—they all heeded their hearts and spoke their minds.
Discover history's icons and independent spirits through brief, eye-opening “she saids” alongside explorations of each woman and her quote. From ancient times to the modern day, these leaders and role models explored new worlds, faced formidable foes, and sacrificed much. Now their words remind us of where we've been . . . and how far we've come.
These 170 wise, witty remarks come down through the ages from such prominent personalities, notorious names, and unsung heroes as . . .
• Boudicca, warrior queen: “In this battle, you must conquer or die. This is a woman's resolve.”
• Mary Mason Lyon, education pioneer: “Go where no one else will go; do what no one else will do.”
• Marie de Gournay, feminist author: “Men and women are equal in everything—except opportunity.”
• Hypatia of Alexandria, celibate mathematician: “I'm wedded to the truth.”
• Thérèse of Lisieux, Carmelite nun: “You ask me for a method of attaining perfection. I know Love—and Love only!”
• Sarah Bernhardt, stage and silent-film actress: “My body will soon be dust [but] my glory will live forever.”
These shrewd, sassy women will shock, awe, and delight you!