Ouida OuidaBorn in 1839 as Maria Louise Ram, Ouida was an English novelist renowned for her passionate prose and colourful lifestyle. She thought the pen name "Ouida," pronounced "wee-dah," sounded intriguing and foreign, so she took it. Ouida, who grew up in acultured home, was passionate with reading and writing from a young age. Her first book, "Granville de Vigne," was published in 1859, marking the start of her literary career. She continued to write a great deal throughout her life. Ouida became well-known for her rich descriptions, dramatic storylines, and idealised depictions of European culture. Her books frequently addressed love, class, and the struggles of the person living in a society that places restrictions on them. Some critics commended her inventive narrative and astute observations on human nature, while others wrote off her work as unduly romantic and shallow. Ouida's novels which are still researched and valued for their contributions to Victorian literature and their understanding of the social and cultural dynamics of the time remain a testament to her legacy. Read More Read Less