Essays on Austen

A collection of essays on Jane Austen's novels, life, house and legacy.

Professor Kathryn Sutherland on why Jane Austen was a pioneer in fiction, breaking new ground in subject and style.

Professor Fiona Stafford on why reading Jane Austen is (among other things) a lesson in emotional intelligence.

Professor Kathryn Sutherland examines the effect of war on Jane Austen’s life and its influence on her novels.

Professor John Mullan on why P&P is the most wonderful novel – from scintillating dialogue to living, breathing characters.

Dress historian Hilary Davidson reflects on the success of the costumes in Andrew Davies’ ever-popular BBC adaptation.

Dress historian Hilary Davidson uses Jane Austen’s letters and surviving articles of clothing to reveal her as a stylish dresser.