Jane Austen
Jane Austen was an English novelist who wrote six major novels, which are based around the British class system and the role of women at the end of the 18th century. She achieved world-wide fame due to the quality of her works. George III was the King of England throughout Austen’s life.
- Born: 16th December 1775 · Steventon, England
- Died: 18th July 1817 · (aged 41) Winchester, England
- Family: Daughter of George and Cassandra Austen. One of seven children. Jane Austen never married.
Jane Austen
Famous Works
These include the novels Emma, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park and Persuasion.
Brief plot outlines:
Emma tells the story of a spoilt young woman who prides herself in being a matchmaker. She doesn’t always choose wise matches for her friends, but unexpectedly finds the love of her life along the way.
Pride and Prejudice is a romantic novel that centres around the Bennet family. Mrs Bennet in particular is keen for her daughters to marry rich gentlemen. Elizabeth Bennet is the second oldest daughter, who discovers that true love is more important than riches.
Mansfield Park tells the story of Fanny Price, whose family cannot look after her and send her, aged ten, to live in the household of her wealthy aunt and uncle until she marries.
Persuasion tells the story of Anne Elliot, a young English woman whose family is working hard to save money and get out of debt.
Famous quotes from Jane Austen’s novels include:
Emma: ‘Silly things do cease to be silly if they are done by sensible people in an impudent way.”
Pride and Prejudice: “We are all fools in love.”
Mansfield Park: “A large income is the best recipe for happiness I ever heard of.”
Persuasion: “Time will explain.”
Learning resources
Example questions
Graduate Awards Programme links:
