Catharine Trotter Cockburn

Catharine Trotter Cockburn, born on August 16, 1674, was a remarkable English playwright, writer, philosopher, and novelist. Her intellectual pursuits spanned a variety of subjects, including moral philosophy and theology, and she was known for her extensive correspondence with notable figures of her time.

Throughout her career, Trotter explored a wide array of topics, such as the concepts of necessity, the infinitude of space, and substance. However, her primary focus remained on moral issues, where she posited that moral principles are not inherent but can be discerned by individuals through the use of reason, a divine gift bestowed by God.

In 1702, she made her mark in the philosophical realm with the publication of her first significant work, "A Defence of Mr. Lock's An Essay Concerning Human Understanding." This defense was well-received, earning the praise of John Locke, who expressed his admiration by providing financial support and books to Trotter through Elizabeth Burnet, the intermediary who introduced them.

Trotter's contributions did not go unnoticed, as William Warburton wrote a preface for her final philosophical work. Additionally, biographer Thomas Birch sought her assistance in compiling a collection of her writings. Although Trotter agreed to the project, she passed away before its completion. Consequently, Birch published a two-volume collection titled "The Works of Mrs. Catharine Cockburn, Theological, Moral, Dramatic and Poetical" in 1751, which remains a vital source for understanding her legacy.