Mary Astell meant that in the society she lived in, women were considered inferior to men and were limited in their opportunities and choices. They were expected to fulfill certain roles and were subject to the authority of men in various aspects of their lives, which she likened to a form of slavery. Astell advocated for women's education and independence to challenge this inequality.

Betty Astell's birth name is Elizabeth Astell.

Mary Astell contributed to the Enlightenment by advocating for women's education and promoting the idea of women's intellectual equality to men. She also critiqued traditional gender roles and argued for women's independence and self-reliance. Astell's writings challenged societal norms and helped pave the way for greater recognition of women's rights and capabilities during the Enlightenment period.

William Astell was born in 1774.

William Astell died in 1847.