Learn About Jane Austen part 10/12

Narrator: The atmosphere at Chawton proved pleasantly productive and to the novel now famous the world over was published anonymously by a lady in 1811. Next came Pride and Prejudice, telling the great love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.

Many think that Mr. Darcy’s grand estate Pemberley in Derbyshire was inspired by a visit Jane Austen made to Chatsworth on a tour of the area. Pride and prejudice appeared in print in 1813 with Jane referring to it as her own darling child and was concerned about how it might be received.

Female: “I must confess that I think her as delightful a creature as ever appeared in print and how I shall be able to tolerate those who do not like her at least, I do not know”—Jane Austen.

Narrator: Jane needed have worried, the reading public adored Elizabeth and Price and Prejudice was a huge success.

The next novel Mansfield Park published in 1814 was not so popular although it was the first to be composed in its entirety at Chawton. The heroin Fanny Price is a very good sort and to this day it is true to say that readers love her or hate her, there is just not middle ground withy Fanny Price.

There is also a fine marvel feel to the book influenced strongly by the tales reported back from brothers Frank and Charles. Jane was disappointed with the handling of Mansfield Park and changed publisher when Emma came into print in 1815.

Jane was yet again adventurous with her leading lady describing her as—

Female: “A heroin who no one but myself will much like”—Jane Austen

Narrator: The novel was nevertheless a great success and Emma Woodhouse is as popular today as ever.