The Blazing World
by Margaret Cavendish
Blazing World, or its full title, The Description for a New World, called The Blazing-World (1666) was a groundbreaking work in the genre of science fiction, written by Margaret Cavendish, who was likely the first woman to publish using her own name. The book is a fantastical display of her intellect, imagination, and curiosity about natural science, at a time early in the Enlightenment when such speculation about the universe, time, and space were still considered somewhat heretical. The novel features animal-human hybrids and a woman’s absolute rule as Empress over a parallel planet. It is part of our collection of Science Fiction.
To The Duchesse of Newcastle, On Her New Blazing-World. Our Elder World, with all their Skill and Arts, Could but divide the World into three Parts: Columbus, then for Navigation fam'd, Found a new World, America 'tis nam'd; Now this new World was found, it was not made, Onely discovered, lying in Time's shade. Then what are You, having no Chaos found To make a World, or any such least ground? But your Creating Fancy, thought it fit To make your World of Nothing, but pure Wit. Your Blazing-World, beyond the Stars mounts higher, Enlightens all with a Cœlestial Fier. William Newcastle.
To All Noble and Worthy Ladies
The Description of the New World, Called The Blazing-World
The Second Part of The Description of the New Blazing-World