The Mary Lincoln Enigma: Historians on America's Most Controversial First Lady

Mary Lincoln is a lightning rod for controversy. Stories reveal widely different interpretations, and it is impossible to write a definitive version of her life that will suit everyone. The thirteen engaging essays in this collection introduce Mary Lincoln€s complex nature and show how she is viewed today.

The authors€ explanations of her personal and private image stem from a variety of backgrounds, and through these lenses€"history, theater, graphic arts, and psychiatry€"they present their latest research and assessments. Here they reveal the effects of familial culture and society on her life and give a broader assessment of Mary Lincoln as a woman, wife, and mother. Topics include Mary€s childhood in Kentucky, the early years of her marriage to Abraham, Mary€s love of travel and fashion, the presidential couple€s political partnership, and Mary€s relationship with her son Robert.

The fascinating epilogue meditates on Mary Lincoln€s universal appeal and her enigmatic personality, showcasing the dramatic differences in interpretations. With gripping prose and in-depth documentation,  this anthology will capture the imagination of all readers.

Univeristy Press Books for Public and Secondary Schools 2013 edition