Jane Austen ​

Jane Austen was an English novelist known for her six major novels, which interpret, critique and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Her novels, including "Pride and Prejudice", "Sense and Sensibility" and "Emma", are considered literary classics.

Quick Facts ​

• Known for her six major novels, including Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility.
• Her works are considered part of the Western literary canon and are frequently studied in educational institutions.
• Her work brought her little personal fame during her lifetime, with only a few close friends knowing she was an author.
• She was virtually unknown as an author during her lifetime, but her reputation skyrocketed in the 20th century.
• Her novels have inspired many film, TV, and stage adaptations.

Background ​

Austen was born in 1775 into a close-knit family in Steventon, Hampshire, England. The seventh of eight children, her early education was shared with her siblings and included a mix of tutoring and self-directed reading from her father's extensive library. She began to write as a teenager. Austen's quiet life was interrupted by a few key events, most notably the family's move to Bath in 1801 and her father's death in 1805, which resulted in precarious financial circumstances for Austen and her mother and sister. Austen remained unmarried, but her own experiences, close observations of those around her, and the world of English country gentility informed her novels. Her works, including Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Emma, are renowned for their commentary on social customs and human nature, as well as their witty and exploratory exploration of romantic relationships. She passed away in 1817 at age 41, leaving behind a legacy of influential literature.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Austen's style is often characterized by her use of irony, realism, and social commentary. Her novels, often set amongst the landed gentry, explore themes of marriage, gender, and class in early 19th century England. With her sharp observation and subtle character development, Austen’s writing has been highly influential, inspiring countless adaptations and adaptations, and she is considered one of the greatest writers in English literature.

Notable Works ​

• Pride and Prejudice (1813)
• Sense and Sensibility (1811)
• Mansfield Park (1814)
• Emma (1815)
• Persuasion (1817)
• Northanger Abbey (1817)