Each novel is an individual work of art, containing characters, plotlines, and dialogue entirely its own. These classic satires of British society in the early 1800's are as thought-provoking as they are delightful.
Pride and Prejudice
Few fans of British literature have missed this classic. Pride and Prejudice is an enchanting story that tells the tale of culture, money, and society in 18th century England. Austen satirizes the the petty prejudices of the wealthy, the clergy, and the middle-class. Meanwhile, she presents us with characters whose intelligence, grace, and character transcend class and wealth. The characters of the Bennet family, Mr. Darcy, and Mr. Bingley will remain in the hearts and minds of readers long after the tale is finished.
Sense and Sensibility
Sense and Sensibility is the story of two English sisters whose differences in character, personality, and taste differ drastically. Through the diverse characters who people this novel, Austen critiques the England of the early 1800's. She criticizes the faults of those who worship money and social stature while holding up for emulation individuals willing to overlook such things.
Emma
Emma is the charming tale of a wealthy young woman in 18th century Britain. Through her interactions, Emma transforms from a silly girl into a woman of character. In this tale, Austen extols the virtues of the mannerisms of the British upper-classes. However, she demonstrates that manners, graces, and courtesies are merely a shabby disguise for poor character unless they extend beyond the artificial boundaries of social classes.
Mansfield Park
One of Austen's lesser known novels, Mansfield Park is a powerful statement on society, wealth, and culture. Fanny, a wealthy family's poor niece, suffers the humiliation of poverty and the hurt of immovable social barriers. In this novel, Austen demonstrates the true foundations of good society while mocking the petty whims of those who worship the exterior artificialities of grace and culture.
Northanger Abbey
Northanger Abbey, the earliest of Austen's published attempts, is a satire on Gothic novels. The character development and plotline of this story lack the depth and maturity of Austen's later novels. However, the characters are charming and the satire is brilliant. The story becomes a fascinating study in British literature as well when compared to other Gothic novels of Austen's time.
In all of Austen's novels, the characters are well-drawn, the dialogue is delightful, and the satire is keen. No fan of 18th and 19th-century British literature should miss any of them. Indeed, any individual who desires pleasant reading, well-developed characters, and eloquent dialgoue should take up one of Austen's novels. Those interested in futher information and dialogue related to Austen's novels should visit The Republic of Pemberley.
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