Mary Shelley, the celebrated author of "Frankenstein," is often remembered for her profound contributions to literature and her tumultuous life filled with both triumph and tragedy. Among the many poignant stories from her life, one of the most intriguing is her enduring connection to her husband, the Romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, even after his untimely death. This connection was symbolized by a rather macabre keepsake: Percy Shelley's heart.
Percy Bysshe Shelley drowned in a storm off the coast of Italy in 1822, leaving Mary a widow at the age of 24. The couple had shared a passionate and often tumultuous relationship, marked by both deep love and personal challenges. After his death, Percy’s body was cremated on the beach in accordance with quarantine laws of the time. During the cremation, his heart, reportedly calcified due to an earlier bout of tuberculosis, did not burn. It was retrieved from the ashes by a friend, Edward Trelawny, and given to Mary.
For Mary Shelley, the heart of her beloved husband became a cherished memento, a tangible connection to the man who had been her partner in both life and art. Wrapped in a silken shroud, she kept it with her for nearly three decades. This act of devotion speaks volumes about the depth of her love and the profound impact Percy had on her life. It is said that she carried it with her wherever she went, a constant reminder of their shared dreams and the literary legacy they both contributed to.
Mary Shelley's life after Percy’s death was marked by her dedication to preserving his work and legacy. She edited and published his poems and writings, ensuring that his voice continued to resonate with future generations. Her own literary career flourished as well, with works that explored themes of loss, identity, and the human condition, undoubtedly influenced by her experiences and the love she held for Percy.
When Mary Shelley passed away in 1851, the heart was found among her belongings, wrapped in the pages of one of Percy’s last poems, "Adonais," a tribute to their friend John Keats. This poignant detail underscores the enduring bond between Mary and Percy, a connection that transcended even death. Today, the story of Mary Shelley and Percy’s heart serves as a testament to the power of love and memory, illustrating how deeply intertwined their lives and legacies were.
Mary Shelley's life and her devotion to Percy Bysshe Shelley continue to captivate readers and historians alike. Her decision to keep his heart as a keepsake is a reflection of the profound love and respect she held for him, a love that endured long after his physical presence was gone. It is a story that reminds us of the enduring power of love and the ways in which we seek to hold onto those we have lost.
