Agnes Repplier (April 1, 1855 – November 15, 1950) was an American essayist known for her keen wit and insightful commentary, born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Repplier began her education at the Sacred Heart Convent, only to be expelled for her 'independent behavior'. Disinclined to conformity, she found her true vocation in writing. She honed her craft through reading, as she was a voracious consumer of literature, and became an influential literary figure at a time when the essay was a revered art form. Repplier's first essay was published in 1886 by the Atlantic Monthly, after which she secured her place in the literary scene with a prolific output of essays characterized by their incisive wit and an emphasis on cultural and historical critique. 'Essays in Idleness,' one of her more well-regarded collections, showcases her mastery as an essayist, her prose infused with astute observations and classical references that elevate the subjects she addresses. Repplier's work often examined the interplay between society and the individual, offering a subtle conservative perspective that both challenged and entertained her readers. She contributed to a breadth of subjects, from French and American history to urban life and the virtues of companionship. Celebrated for her intellect and timeless prose, Repplier's literary legacy endures, ensuring her place in the pantheon of great American essayists.