Join us for a very special event… As part of a small group, you are invited to view some of the treasures of our collection up close. In celebration of Pride and Prejudice Day, we’ll be showcasing objects relating to that beloved novel – including first editions of Pride and Prejudice and a personal letter from Jane to Cassandra, discussing its publication.

We’ll start with first publication of P&P in 1813. We’ll examine first editions of the novel and a personal letter from Jane to her sister Cassandra discussing it’s publication, her own reactions and her first reading aloud to a neighbour.

We’ll move on to notable editions, from the first American edition of the novel to the celebrated Peacock edition, published in 1895 by George Allen, with lavish illustrations by Hugh Thomson, and Dent’s 1989 edition with illustrations by Brock.

We’ll examine later twentieth century editions, and discuss how the World Wars and growth of women’s’ higher education changed the novel’s look and feel.

We’ll also enjoy objects relating to stage and film adaptations, dip into Winston Churchill’s memoirs, and enjoy a remarkable handwritten copy of the novel.

This event will be led by an expert on our collection, who will guide you through 200 years of Pride and Prejudice history. The group will be kept very small, so there will be plenty of opportunities to handle objects, ask questions and discuss as we go along.

This very special event will include welcome refreshments, including a glass of bubbly to toast our favourite authoress, before we wash our hands, don our conservation gloves and settle down to all things P&P!

We’ll send you away with a souvenir of the day and some very special memories of this beloved book.

Details:

Date: Sunday 29 January 2023

Time: 11am – 12.30pm (GMT)

Location: This event takes place at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton. Find us

Tickets: £145

👫 Capacity for this event is limited to 6 people, to allow for the best possible experience. 

 The event will include a glass of sparkling wine or non-alcoholic alternative. Please let us know of any dietary requirements upon booking.

 This event is part of Pride & Prejudice Day, celebrating the first publication of P&P on 28 January 1813.