Includes bibliographical references (pages 221-284) and index
"The growth of female reading audiences from the mid eighteenth century to the early Victorian era represents both a vital episode in women's history and a highly significant factor in shaping the literary production of the period. This book offers for the first time a board overview and detailed analysis of this growing readership, its representation in literature, and the extent of its influence."--Jacket
Pygmalionesses and the pencil under the petticoat: Richardson, Johnson and Byron -- What should girls and women read? -- The pleasures and perils of reading -- Pleasures and perils of reading: some case histories -- Where and how should women read? -- Preparing for equality: class, gender, reading -- A dangerous recreation: women and novel-reading
