Hannah Woolley

Hannah Woolley (sometimes spelt Wolley; c.1622 – in or after 1675) was an English writer who published early books on household management; she was probably the first person to earn a living doing this.

The Gentlewomans Companion; or, A Guide to the Female Sex (London: A. Maxwell for Dorman Newman, 1673)

• The right Education of the Female Sex, as it is in a manner every where neglected, so it ought to be generally lamented. Most in this depraved later Age think a Woman learned and wise enough if she can distinguish her Husbands Bed from anothers.
  • "The Introduction"

• There is so much servility in rigor and restraint, that of consequence there can be no greater ene∣my to Ingenuity and good nature. Fools are to be always bauld upon, and blows are fitter for beasts than rational creatures; wherefore there can nothing more engage an ingenious generous soul, than cheerfulness and liberty; not over-frightned.
  • "The Duty and Qualifications of a Governess to Gentlemens Children"