Publisher's Synopsis
A precursor to feminist literature, this book is a passionate plea for justice, filled with the horrifying details of Norton's own predicament and her scornful, accurate assessment of the statutes and the courts regarding women. Reform of the Marriage and Divorce Laws came in 1857, and some years later the Married Women's Property Act was passed, largely as a result of Caroline Norton's 'defence', and at the price of her own happiness.