Herman Melville married the daughter of a rich Boston lawyer

His first book, Typee, and its successor, Omoo (1847), were travelogues based on his interactions with the island's inhabitants. As a result of their success, he was able to marry Elizabeth Shaw, a Boston lawyer and the daughter of Lemuel Shaw. His first book, Mardi (1849), a romantic journey not based on his personal experiences, did not meet with much success.

In 1847, Elizabeth Shaw and Melville became engaged. Herman had already established himself as a writer by that point. He had a number of novels published. Both of them ended up being quite well-liked by readers, bringing their authors notoriety and financial security.

In 1847, Elizabeth Shaw and Melville became engaged. Herman had already established himself as a writer by that point. He had a number of novels published. Both of them ended up being quite well-liked by readers, bringing their authors notoriety and financial security.

Despite Melville's considerable fortune, Elizabeth's father rejected him when he came to formally seek Elizabeth her hand in marriage. The truth is that Allan Melvill and Lemuel Shaw were close friends. The family's bond persisted even after Melville passed away.

Lemuel Shaw's defiance had little effect on Melville. Two more times, he asked for Elizabeth's hand. He was able to secure approval. In August 1847, Herman Melville and Elizabeth Shaw were legally wed. They had four kids.