Mary Fairfax Somerville: Mathematician, Scientist, and Writer
Early Life:
Mary Fairfax Somerville was born on December 26, 1780, in Jedburgh, Scotland. She was the daughter of Vice-Admiral Sir William George Fairfax and Margaret Charters. Despite societal norms of the time that limited educational opportunities for women, Somerville’s parents encouraged her intellectual curiosity and provided her with access to books and learning resources.
Mary’s early education was informal, as she did not attend school. She was largely self-taught and displayed a keen interest in mathematics and science from a young age. Her uncle, Thomas Somerville, recognized her potential and introduced her to more advanced mathematical concepts.
Marriage and Family:
In 1804, Mary married Samuel Greig, a Russian Navy captain. The marriage brought her to live in London and later in Edinburgh. Unfortunately, Greig’s health deteriorated, and he passed away in 1807. Mary, now a widow, faced financial challenges but continued her pursuit of knowledge.
In 1812, Mary married another widower, Dr. William Somerville, a physician and inspector of the Army Medical Board. This marriage brought her into contact with the intellectual circles of Edinburgh, providing her with further opportunities for intellectual growth.
Scientific and Mathematical Pursuits:
Mary Somerville’s interest in mathematics and science continued to deepen. She studied the works of influential scientists and mathematicians of her time, including Isaac Newton and Pierre-Simon Laplace. Her dedication to learning and her intellectual abilities were widely recognized within Edinburgh’s scientific community.
In 1826, Mary Somerville translated Laplace’s “Traité de mécanique céleste” (Treatise on Celestial Mechanics) from French to English. This translation, along with her comprehensive notes and commentary, contributed significantly to the understanding of celestial mechanics in the English-speaking world.
Writings and Publications:
Mary Somerville’s first major scientific work, “The Mechanism of the Heavens,” was published in 1831. The book synthesized and presented the current state of knowledge in astronomy, combining mathematical rigor with accessible language for a broader audience. The success of this work established her as a prominent scientific writer.
Her second major work, “On the Connexion of the Physical Sciences,” published in 1834, covered a wide range of scientific topics, including physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology. This work further solidified her reputation as a leading scientific author.
Recognition and Honors:
Mary Somerville’s contributions to science and mathematics garnered recognition from her peers and the broader public. In 1835, she became the first woman to be named an honorary member of the Royal Astronomical Society. Her achievements also led to her election as a member of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1834 and the Royal Society of London in 1835.
Later Life and Legacy:
Mary Somerville continued to contribute to scientific literature and remained an active member of the scientific community throughout her life. In 1868, she published her autobiography, “Personal Recollections, from Early Life to Old Age.”
Mary Fairfax Somerville passed away on November 29, 1872, at the age of 91. Her legacy extends beyond her significant contributions to science and mathematics; she also played a crucial role in challenging societal expectations regarding women’s intellectual capabilities and their participation in scientific pursuits.
In recognition of her impact on mathematics and science, Somerville College at the University of Oxford was named in her honor. Mary Somerville’s life and work have inspired generations of women in STEM fields, and she remains an iconic figure in the history of women in science.
