In defence of Emma : 'scheming adventuress' or 'radiant presence'? /Sylvia K. Robinson.

"Emma, Lady Hamilton, the subject of this new and important biography, has been roundly maligned in previous biographies and repeatedly criticised in the many biographies of her husband, Sir William Hamilton and those of Admiral Lord Nelson, her lover. The aim of the long overdue re-assessment of her life is to defend her reputation against the unwarranted and unsubstantiated allegations commonly made against her. She is most often portrayed as 'infamous' and 'notorious'. However, it is universally acknowledged that she was one of the most beautiful women in Europe at the time. Her absorbing, enthralling and ultimately tragic story is told here in her own words through the prolifics correspondence exchanged between her and the significant people in her life, most especially Hamilton and Nelson. Few authors give Emma credit for her achievements. Born into inauspicious circumstances, she yet mastered several languages, rose to acclaimed success in singing and acting, became and valued friend and confidante of Queen Maria Carolina of Naples, and played and politically pivotal role in those desperate years during which Napoleon attempted to conquer Europe. This meticulously researched narrative is a penetrating study of Emma's life and influence. The story unfolds through an extensive and impartial examination of the letters, wills, bank accounts and further extant documentation. Particular attention is paid to the financial details that reveal the full extent of Emma's tragic end. The author presents an intriguing new approach to Emma's legacy, successfully defending her against her dishonourable and undeserved reputation."--Inside cover