Throughout the ages, extraordinary women have exposed other women to the world of letters and the freedom it brings. This unique cross-cultural account highlights the accomplishments of women writers and educated women, and provides beautiful reproductions of renowned artworks that illustrate their achievements, thereby also tracing the social functions of the portraits of reading women as well as the types of books they read. The book further explores the changing circumstances of women's access to literature and education throughout the centuries in different cultures and societies. Chronologically arranged, the volume opens in ancient times, exploring civilizations as diverse as Mesopotamia, Greece and China. Artworks featuring reading women range from Pompeii frescoes to important works by artists through the centuries. The result is a beautifully illustrated cultural history of women reading, as fascinating and inspiring as the accomplishments it honors.