The Love Letters of Dorothy Osborne to Sir William Temple, 1652-54

The Love Letters of Dorothy Osborne to Sir William Temple, written between 1652 and 1654, is a collection of correspondence that provides a personal account of the romance between Dorothy Osborne and Sir William Temple during a tumultuous period in 17th-century England. The letters reveal Osborne's vibrant personality as she navigates societal pressures and family expectations while expressing her deep love for Temple. Notable for defying her family's wishes regarding marriage, these letters offer insight into the complexities of love and courtship in a time when marriages were often business arrangements. The collection highlights the emotional depth and intelligence of a woman who ultimately triumphed in love despite significant obstacles.