Anne Killigrew

Anne Killigrew was born in 1660 and died in 1685. She served as a maid of honour to Mary of Modena, Duchess of York. Killigrew was both a poet and a painter, though only a few of her paintings survive. Her poems were published posthumously in a single volume in 1686. The collection includes odes, pastorals, and religious meditations. Her verse often explores themes of virtue, mortality, and divine love. Stylistically, it reflects the influence of the metaphysical poets. John Dryden honored her with his ode 'To the Pious Memory of the Accomplish'd Young Lady Mrs. Anne Killigrew,' which praises her moral and artistic gifts. Though her output was small, she holds a place in English literary history largely due to Dryden's tribute. Her work offers insight into the intellectual and artistic pursuits of women in Restoration England.