Arabella Kenealy

British physician and writer

Arabella Kenealy (1859 – 18 November 1938) was a British physician, writer, and advocate for women's health and rights. She was known for her medical practice, her novels, and her controversial views on gender and evolution.

Early Life and Education

Arabella Kenealy was born in Simla, British India, in 1859. She was the daughter of Edward Vaughan Hyde Kenealy, a barrister and politician. Her family returned to England during her childhood, where she pursued her education. Kenealy attended the London School of Medicine for Women, one of the few institutions at the time that allowed women to study medicine.

Medical Career

Arabella Kenealy as a doctor

Kenealy qualified as a physician in 1885, becoming one of the early female doctors in the United Kingdom. She practiced medicine in London and was particularly interested in women's health issues. Her medical career was marked by her advocacy for the health and well-being of women, and she often wrote about the importance of proper medical care for women.

Literary Career

In addition to her medical work, Kenealy was a prolific writer. She authored several novels, essays, and articles. Her writing often explored themes of gender, health, and society. Some of her notable works include Dr. Janet of Harley Street and The Making of a Soul. Her novels were popular in their time and often reflected her views on the roles and capabilities of women.

Views on Gender and Evolution

Kenealy held controversial views on gender and evolution, which she expressed in her writings. She believed in the superiority of women and argued that women were the more evolved sex. Her ideas were influenced by the eugenics movement, which was gaining popularity in the early 20th century. Kenealy's views were both criticized and supported by her contemporaries, and they sparked considerable debate.

Later Life and Legacy

Arabella Kenealy not dancing

Kenealy continued to write and lecture on women's issues throughout her life. She remained a controversial figure due to her outspoken views. Arabella Kenealy passed away on 18 November 1938. Her contributions to medicine and literature, as well as her advocacy for women's rights, left a lasting impact.

Related Pages

• Women in medicine
• Eugenics
• Gender studies