Famous Governesses in Literature and Media

If you're considering a career in childcare or nannying, you may have come across the term "governess" and wondered what it entails. A governess is a professional caregiver who provides education and guidance to children in a private household. They are often highly educated and responsible for teaching subjects such as language, music, and other skills. Read more about what a governess is here!

In this article, we will explore the world of famous governesses who have made a significant impact in their field. Whether you're interested in their stories or looking for inspiration for your own career, these remarkable women have left a lasting legacy in the childcare industry.

1. Maria von Trapp 

Perhaps one of the most well-known governesses in history, Maria von Trapp's story has been told through the famous musical and film, "The Sound of Music". Originally from Austria, Maria was hired as a governess for the seven children of widowed naval officer Georg von Trapp. She not only helped the children with their studies but also brought music and love back into the household. Eventually, she married Georg and they formed the Trapp Family Singers, touring Europe and eventually immigrating to the United States.

2. Anna Leonowens
Anna Leonowens is another governess who gained fame through a musical – "The King and I". In the 1860s, Anna was hired as a governess for the children of King Mongkut of Siam (now Thailand). Her role was to educate the King's children and his many wives about Western culture. Anna's experiences were documented in a series of memoirs, which were later adapted into the iconic musical and film.

3. Charlotte Brontë
While not famous for being a governess herself, Charlotte Brontë's experiences in this profession greatly influenced her writing. Before writing her famous novel 'Jane Eyre,' which features a governess as the main character, Brontë worked as a governess for several families in England. Many speculate that her time as a governess served as the inspiration for the character of Jane Eyre.

4. Clara Schumann
Clara Schumann, a renowned German pianist, and composer, also spent time as a governess. After her husband, the famous composer Robert Schumann, fell ill, Clara took on the role of governess to support her family. Despite the challenges, Clara continued to compose music and perform, influencing generations of musicians.

5. Kathryn Hulme
The author Kathryn Hulme worked as a governess for a wealthy American family in Europe during World War II. Her experiences traveling with the family and witnessing the war's impact inspired her to write the bestselling novel 'The Nun's Story'. The book was later adapted into a successful film starring Audrey Hepburn.

6. Marion Crawford
Marion Crawford, or "Crawfie" as she was affectionately known, was a governess for the British royal family. She was responsible for the education of Queen Elizabeth II and her sister, Princess Margaret. Her unique insight into the lives of the royals was documented in her book 'The Little Princesses', which was published despite the royal family's disapproval.

Each of these famous governesses brought their unique skills and experiences to the important role of educating and caring for children. They faced challenges and broke boundaries, leaving a lasting impact not only on the lives of the children they cared for but also on the wider society.

If you're considering a career as a nanny or governess, these stories show the potential for creativity, influence, and fulfillment this career can offer. Whether it's through teaching, writing, or even music, the role of a governess can provide an enriching and rewarding experience. 

In the end, it's not about achieving fame or recognition. It's about the difference you can make in a child's life, the joy that comes from seeing them grow and learn, and the unique bond that forms between a caregiver and their charges. As these famous governesses have shown, it's a profession that can offer both personal satisfaction and lasting influence.