"Benigna Machiavelli," a fictional autobiography by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, follows the life of young Benigna MacAvelly, who aspires to emulate her ancestor Niccolò Machiavelli by using her cunning for good. From orchestrating a fundraising scheme to support a struggling teacher to devising an elaborate plan to liberate her mother from her oppressive father, Benigna's journey is one of empowerment and resilience. This tale resonates today as it explores themes of female agency, the fight against patriarchal oppression, and the importance of compassion and strategic thinking in effecting change. Gilman's insightful narrative encourages listeners to reflect on the enduring struggle for women's rights and the power of individual action.

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