Jane Austen is one of the most celebrated female authors in English literature. While many may assume her works focus solely on timeless romantic stories, her writing also explored a satirical yet insightful look at the social norms of the Georgian and Regency eras in England, unique for writers of her time. While not much is known about Jane Austen’s life nor what she was like as a person, we do know she was a determined and ambitious writer. Her novels remain widely read and beloved standing the test of time, while influencing literature and popular culture to this day.
“Her own thoughts and reflections were habitually her best companions.”
-Jane Austen, Mansfield Park
Prior to the publication of Jane Austen’s novels, literature mostly focused on adventure, gothic and religious themes. Through her prose, Austen introduced and defined the era with her comedy of manners which reflected the aspects of everyday life in an affectionate and satiric voice. She wrote stories of people in scenarios that followed and challenged the rules and traditions of society.
Through the experiences and emotions of her characters she gave perspective on her notions of a modern world. She depicted familiar tones that gave her timeless and universal appeal. To this day her works remain relevant, as scholars continue to study her legacy and modern authors are inspired by her writing.
Life and Influence
Jane Austen’s personal story goes back to the rural picturesque British countryside of Steventon, Hampshire. Jane Austen was born on a cold winter day, December 16, 1775. Reverend George Austen, the rector assigned to the Church of St. Nicholas in North Hampshire, was her father and Cassandra Leigh, a daughter of a respectable family of a higher social status, was her mother. She was the seventh child of eight children, with six brothers and one sister, who all grew up in love and affection.
The Austens were a close-knit family that enjoyed reading stories together. Encouraged by their mother’s creative narratives, the Austens would find entertainment in acting. These episodes led the siblings to create parodies and short dramas that they hosted in their barn. The theatrical performances were a novelty that brought amusement to their family members and neighbors who came to watch these shows. This nurtured and inspired a young Jane Austen to write her own poems and stories at the age of 12.
“There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves, it is not my nature.” -Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey
The settings of her stories were inspired by the daily experiences she observed and commentary on social standards and social class, central themes to life in Regency Era England. Her modest and spirited upbringing served to sharpen her wits and develop her unique voice for storytelling.
Her early works gained popularity, yet her first four novels were published anonymously: Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814), and Emma (1815). She eventually gained success as a British novelist, though not without challenges and persistence to succeed after much rejection.
Jane Austen became terribly sick and showed symptoms of Addison’s disease, a rare autoimmune disorder that affected her bodily functions. She suffered from back pain, fevers, fatigues, and other symptoms but despite her illness, yet she continued to work on writing novels. In 1817 she sadly died at the age of 41. It was only after her death that Henry, her older brother and informal literary agent, had her last two completed works (Northanger Abbey and Persuasion) published under her name.
Completed Works and Future Success
Jane Austen completed only six official works during her lifetime. Her enduring tales in order of their writing: Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Northanger Abbey, Mansfield Park, Emma, and Persuasion. Her novels feature complex characters, often heroines with depth and wit that challenged the social norms of their century.
One of her most popular and beloved characters are Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy from Pride and Prejudice. This timeless novel explores the themes of love, marriage and social class, while weaving a detailed and complex story highlighting Elizabeth’s emotional growth and her romance with Mr. Darcy despite their differences.
“There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me.” -Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice
As her novel explored the characters’ traits and the complexities of human relationships, Jane Austen’s success lies in the charm of her engaging characters and social commentary.
Jane Austen’s novels deliver memorable and resounding social and cultural themes that continue to capture readers throughout time. Despite being published first in 1813, Pride and Prejudice proves to be one of Jane Austen’s most translated works. It is enjoyed in over 40 languages such as French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and many others.
Popular examples of books and movies inspired by Jane Austen’s novels include Helen Fielding’s book and film, Bridget Jones’s Diary (inspired by Pride and Prejudice) and H.B. Gilmour’s film, Clueless (inspired by Emma). Jane Austen’s enduring and popular works are a testament to her powerful and iconic voice, influential across time and cultures.
"To love is to burn, to be on fire." -Jane Austen, Sense and Sensibility
During this season of love and always, let Jane Austen’s emotional, culture-shifting, and thought-provoking writing inspire and encourage you.
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