The ‘nun’ as narrative: religion, writing and reputation in the life of Mary Francis Cusack
Journal: Women s History Review
Year: 2021

Mary Francis Cusack (1829–1899) was a prolific writer, historian and publisher, producing over forty books during her life-time. She was a vocal supporter of the Land League, an advocate for female education and an early believer in the Marian apparitions at Knock. She was also, for much of her career, an enclosed nun. Her religious identity was essential to the literary persona which she cultivated throughout her career. Through her books and the press, she relied upon and adapted common tropes