Jane Austen (1775–1817) was an English novelist celebrated for her keen observations of early 19th-century British society and her pioneering use of free indirect Speech. Her beloved works, including "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility," offer a rich Exploration of Manners, Marriage, and Morality. Austen's nuanced characterizations and wit have earned her a lasting Place in the literary Canon. Her novels, still widely read and adapted today, continue to captivate and inspire readers worldwide.
Anecdotes
- Fiercely protective, she once turned down an advantageous marriage proposal, valuing companionship over social status. Her novels were initially published anonymously, keeping her identity a Mystery. Reviled the city Life, finding inspiration exclusively in her rural surroundings.
- Maintained a lively social life, attending numerous balls and social gatherings, yet preferred the quiet of her home for writing. Enjoyed creating and performing in amateur theatricals with her Family, a popular pastime that influenced her storytelling. Relished long walks in the countryside, often composing scenes in her head while strolling.
- Once accepted a marriage proposal, only to retract it the next morning, preferring her life as an independent writer.
Magnitudes
- Write to understand, not to impress.
- Seek Truth in everyday human experiences.
- Cultivate deep Observation of human relationships.
Explore these important ideas through classics in our archives contributed by or related to Jane Austen.
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Canon
Canon
Marriage
Marriage
Truth
Truth
Manners
Manners
Maria Edgeworth
Maria Edgeworth
Observation
Observation
Sense
Sense
Life
Life
Jane Austen
Jane Austen
Speech
Speech
Pride
Pride
Prejudice
Prejudice
Place
Place
Mystery
Mystery
Morality
Morality
Family
Family
Exploration
Exploration