tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84501555252095246082024-02-07T04:43:55.513-08:00Jane Austen Has the AnswersJ.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-89717514791112413752015-01-16T05:55:00.000-08:002015-01-16T05:57:52.772-08:00Best quotes from Jane Austen? Impossible to choose! But...here are a fewRecently a friend asked me about the best quotes from Jane Austen--there are so many good ones, but they are best read in the context of the plot and the development of the characters. However, here are a few that I thought were best in terms of the imagery and making you think:<br />
<br />
Of all horrid things leave-taking is the worst.<br />
--Frank Churchill, Emma<br />
Frank Churchill is a bit of a scoundrel who is manipulative with his friends and gets a little bit in over his head with his secrets, but I love the strong words in his statement, the emotion as he feels it (at that particular moment in time), and the image of the pain in separating from a person. It makes me think of being at airports and seeing people parting, or at hospitals when visitors have to leave their loved ones.<br />
<br />
I shall soon be rested....to sit in the shade on a fine day, and look upon verdure, is the most perfect refreshment.<br />
--Fanny Price, Mansfield Park<br />
Fanny is a delicate soul that looks at the world through rose-colored glasses, she can be sensitive to slights from others and a bit judgmental. I like the imagery of this sentence—the warm breeze and beautiful scenery bringing relief to her soul.<br />
<br />
You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope.<br />
--Captain Wentworth, Persuasion<br />
Captain Wentworth realizes his love for Anne Elliott has not diminished over the years, and writes to her of his desire to reunite with her. The image of the pierced soul is so striking, the fact that caring for one so deeply can bring physical pain.<br />
<br />
I WILL be calm; I WILL be mistress of myself.<br />
--Elinor Dashwood, Sense and Sensibility<br />
The importance of self-talk in every century! Elinor is viewed from the outside as being so calm and logical, yet we see a glimpse into her inner workings and discover that she also gets anxious and worried. This is such a common theme in everyone—convincing oneself that they are up for the challenge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/31/4b/45/314b4585a4f8250441684fb51510a781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/31/4b/45/314b4585a4f8250441684fb51510a781.jpg" /></a></div>J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-55634508131662510862013-11-17T14:17:00.002-08:002013-11-17T14:33:03.408-08:00Jane Austen and Mr. Darcy, yes, but so much more!I love that <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/video/mr-darcy-jane-austen-super-fans-20897217">ABC News</a> recently covered the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) Convention—comparing Jane Austenites to sports fans or Trekkies in their enthusiasm and dedication.<br />
<br />
However, I grow weary of the media taking the sloppy and limiting approach of focusing on the Mr. Darcy-Romantic Heartthrob angle as the sole reason that readers love Jane Austen. Jane Austen is absolutely Mr. Darcy, but she is also SO much more for those who pay a little attention. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVzkxE4KwmtMwpFGIzguh-uVm_XGHgEUQwFuT4Wi-dHEA30SDdNywSljzuqU9ejieL-aGlMNEke0UVhx8794EqW4521eQcxYKe5GSNg3njzNwhIU5Zizcvgf9vhOGtH7kCY9eftIZUKFI/s1600/mr_darcy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVzkxE4KwmtMwpFGIzguh-uVm_XGHgEUQwFuT4Wi-dHEA30SDdNywSljzuqU9ejieL-aGlMNEke0UVhx8794EqW4521eQcxYKe5GSNg3njzNwhIU5Zizcvgf9vhOGtH7kCY9eftIZUKFI/s320/mr_darcy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Why Mr. Darcy? Mr. Darcy encapsulates Jane Austen’s ability to define and create characters that can hold our attention after 200 years, her skill at making them come alive through dialogue and description, and her talent of placing them in engaging plots. Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth Bennett, Marianne Dashwood, John Willoughby, Emma Woodhouse, even Mr. Elton—all come alive. <br />
<br />
What more? Jane Austen’s books are filled with a sharp sense of wit and irony, scathing social satire, beautiful language and sentence constructions, and subtle (and not-so-subtle) character and plot developments. Her books were some of the first to describe the inequities of the gender and societal expectations of the time—some stated outright while some mere allusions. And her books depict the striving to create authentic relationships and life choices. Her female characters not only yearn for their independence and freedom, but actively seek it out, sometimes to our cheering and applause—like with Anne Elliot and Fanny Price—and sometimes to our disdain—like with Lucy Steele and Mary Crawford. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YwXs3O7YF52F3rrvJo6yPHXUqcuXpJ1_bvecjE3wd9JT7omnQttctHLP_DoZhMy9ZhzCAeZ0KeSQSeq2sMxi8_5G0SUkXGfEuO0afpoKPck0OkLGMT47mECviIrWsSyI4V3L6tO0Lewq/s1600/anne-hathaway-jane-austen-013111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YwXs3O7YF52F3rrvJo6yPHXUqcuXpJ1_bvecjE3wd9JT7omnQttctHLP_DoZhMy9ZhzCAeZ0KeSQSeq2sMxi8_5G0SUkXGfEuO0afpoKPck0OkLGMT47mECviIrWsSyI4V3L6tO0Lewq/s320/anne-hathaway-jane-austen-013111.jpg" /></a></div><br />
True love? So while Jane Austen succeeds in creating a handsome romantic lead in Mr. Darcy, she also creates a true love for authentic characters and a passion for evocative literature. One day I hope to join in on the fun of a JASNA Convention, and when I do, my fingers are crossed that I will interview with a media outlet that is knowledgeable about so much more than Mr. Darcy-as-Romantic Heartthrob. <br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-39900651520269474702013-09-23T19:20:00.000-07:002013-09-23T19:30:01.247-07:00Sense and Sensibility: Six quotes leaving you wanting to know more<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBQmGYgB_QobQGwAjfhjOsdcGr3lnV25haoBwyrTUEOnLtZNOGY_2FYduCq4hzVi30jF2R0Xiec19e02p2EFZz2H7H2e5O_5prhcApgWmNkvWbrgRhcabplEqYjLtJpdrHeRll74y00m0/s1600/sense+and+sensibility_3+emotions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhBQmGYgB_QobQGwAjfhjOsdcGr3lnV25haoBwyrTUEOnLtZNOGY_2FYduCq4hzVi30jF2R0Xiec19e02p2EFZz2H7H2e5O_5prhcApgWmNkvWbrgRhcabplEqYjLtJpdrHeRll74y00m0/s320/sense+and+sensibility_3+emotions.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I love reading Jane Austen for the beauty of her dialogue and the insight she gives her characters. I find her words soothing, perceptive, funny, and infuriating all at the same time! If you haven't read Sense and Sensibility in a while (or ever), here are six quotes to lure you to open it back up...<br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<i>A quote that sets the stage for the entire book--referring to the 3 daughters (Elinor, Marianne, and Margaret) and their mother (Mrs. Dashwood) after the unexpected death of Mr. Dashwood...</i><br />
<br />
Fanny: They're all exceedingly spoilt, I find. Miss Margaret spends all her time up trees and under furniture. I've barely had a civil word from Marianne. <br />
Edward Ferrars: My dear Fanny, they've just lost their father. Their lives will never be the same again. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u6o6BdgkVvDjDJYNelTtyZTD4SnX4G0uu86oghWFEaxM3kl2fdmz5UJsMF78FYPvufE7WufhTIY5QawBpIHmVmIxUKmluWX8fu7zjJmElsNjry-z9t4vzjCxGDCtezRjCDJtd46Ze3nv/s1600/sense+and+sensibility_funeral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5u6o6BdgkVvDjDJYNelTtyZTD4SnX4G0uu86oghWFEaxM3kl2fdmz5UJsMF78FYPvufE7WufhTIY5QawBpIHmVmIxUKmluWX8fu7zjJmElsNjry-z9t4vzjCxGDCtezRjCDJtd46Ze3nv/s320/sense+and+sensibility_funeral.jpg" /></a></div><br />
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<i>A succinct summary of the elder daughter Elinor's situation with a deceased father and no husband, which encapsulates women's financial situation in general in 19th century England...</i><br />
<br />
Elinor Dashwood: You talk of feeling idle and useless. Imagine how that is compounded when one has no hope and no choice of any occupation whatsoever. <br />
Edward Ferrars: Our circumstances are therefore precisely the same. <br />
Elinor Dashwood: Except that you will inherit your fortune. We cannot even earn ours. <br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<i>Throughout the book, Jane Austen explores the juxtaposition of sense (logic) and sensibility (emotion) in her characters...</i><br />
<br />
Colonel Brandon: Your sister seems very happy. <br />
Elinor Dashwood: Yes. Marianne does not approve of hiding her emotions. In fact, her romantic prejudices have the unfortunate tendency to set propriety at naught. <br />
Colonel Brandon: She is wholly unspoilt. <br />
Elinor Dashwood: Rather too unspoilt, in my view. The sooner she becomes acquainted with the ways of the world, the better. <br />
Colonel Brandon: I knew a lady very like your sister - the same impulsive sweetness of temper - who was forced into, as you put it, a better acquaintance with the world. The result was only ruination and despair. Do not desire it, Miss Dashwood.<br />
<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvVOmkT0yqX8FVyENg2yLOsahglchDumMO42eYh5hKs076jlmCAwfDyieQPdZGJqOu9ThsPcoRsY8pJIfeoCgrGBmiQvgOkhgve6aUv2agVmScXtHXYcfsligLYO-gv-p0pJ1rz3uj4wz/s1600/sense+and+sensibility_elinor+and+marianne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvVOmkT0yqX8FVyENg2yLOsahglchDumMO42eYh5hKs076jlmCAwfDyieQPdZGJqOu9ThsPcoRsY8pJIfeoCgrGBmiQvgOkhgve6aUv2agVmScXtHXYcfsligLYO-gv-p0pJ1rz3uj4wz/s320/sense+and+sensibility_elinor+and+marianne.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>Just when you want to dislike Marianne for her emotional impetuosity and self-absorption, she shares this with her sister and you have to change your whole view of her...</i><br />
<br />
Elinor Dashwood: Do you compare your conduct with his? <br />
Marianne: No, I compare it with what it ought to have been. I compare it with yours.<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<i>The importance of self-talk in every century! Here Elinor tries to convince herself that she can handle the impending situation...</i><br />
<br />
Elinor Dashwood: “I WILL be calm; I WILL be mistress of myself.” <br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoviUUEDW7YtGx9aLt8RgxOFPoi4FQSv065XalL5jyUuB47-jlPUzgrjma26MZ9IS2h6zOE6C7XKG45_SOg8nB4HEEaSZ2Esq4upq_hxBk-m9maBu2X-6_U4okUK95lgj9E5dW_Hib2o7M/s1600/sense+and+sensibility_elinor+and+edward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoviUUEDW7YtGx9aLt8RgxOFPoi4FQSv065XalL5jyUuB47-jlPUzgrjma26MZ9IS2h6zOE6C7XKG45_SOg8nB4HEEaSZ2Esq4upq_hxBk-m9maBu2X-6_U4okUK95lgj9E5dW_Hib2o7M/s320/sense+and+sensibility_elinor+and+edward.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>No explanation needed for the beauty of this quote...</i><br />
<br />
Edward Ferrars: I-I've come here with no expectations, only to profess, now that I am at liberty to do so, that my heart is, and always will be, yours.<br />
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-8466561086966048312013-07-13T18:12:00.000-07:002013-07-13T18:16:14.825-07:00Jane Austen: Author extraordinaire, Social satirist...and Game theorist?A friend recently sent me a Freakonomics podcast simply because the name "Jane Austen" was in the title. Little did she know what a gift this was! And little did she know how much this would get me thinking about the genius of Jane Austen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmz8PN6YOwXr2LngGg3hGwUPW3gq8OYG5Dfv1Nze3BpvZOrlPjJ47Rj4uV6B6Gy5Vf1iIcX1yIkQ-5cXkqaf8pcGyJNcHBuqVV6uro31n_D4JyZmqRpkmCAk5Zi7XeW0_KB0UKeOaluDV/s1600/jane+austen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmz8PN6YOwXr2LngGg3hGwUPW3gq8OYG5Dfv1Nze3BpvZOrlPjJ47Rj4uV6B6Gy5Vf1iIcX1yIkQ-5cXkqaf8pcGyJNcHBuqVV6uro31n_D4JyZmqRpkmCAk5Zi7XeW0_KB0UKeOaluDV/s320/jane+austen.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So what was this podcast all about? It interviewed researcher Michael Chwe, who proposes that Jane Austen "consciously intended to theorize strategic thinking in her novels." Think of Mrs. Bennett scheming to marry off her 5 daughters, or Emma contriving to arrange love matches among her acquaintances. <br />
<br />
This study of strategic decision-making is otherwise known as "game theory." And Chwe wrote the book on Jane Austen, Game Theorist. Seriously, that is the name of his book: <i>Jane Austen, Game Theorist</i>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1fZSq43VeObXMcTEzA7lyBRWBlQwFZwNxcvenoCK2vL6i4vhAR_vb1EAikccQFPLwBIBHctYaAxqIfY3iz0XDGb4fqc__b6dle-GiClE6zQnWRZ24yVx7XBSJBub5rAVeFrdTe1vVu8q/s1600/mrs+bennet+and+daughters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1fZSq43VeObXMcTEzA7lyBRWBlQwFZwNxcvenoCK2vL6i4vhAR_vb1EAikccQFPLwBIBHctYaAxqIfY3iz0XDGb4fqc__b6dle-GiClE6zQnWRZ24yVx7XBSJBub5rAVeFrdTe1vVu8q/s320/mrs+bennet+and+daughters.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Chwe explores how Jane Austen plots are pretty simplistic and basic (e.g., in Pride and Prejudice, get married), but what makes them so rich and complex are the manipulations (e.g., in Pride and Prejudice, mother Mrs. Bennett gets daughter Jane to know the new neighbor Bingley by going on horseback in the rain to visit). Introduce a basic plot line (the Bennetts have 5 daughters that need to be married off because they have no other choices) and then let the chess pieces fall into place and the strategizing begin: <i>How will Bingley react? What will Bingley's sisters think? What can Mrs. Bennett do to further encourage things? What will Jane's sisters do? What other contenders may be in the running?</i> Marvelous! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJMBEU1ABLb1Q2tnlIaq_jxV7t7vSM0KcUSM2vNNTi3WhqtP_INThpvfak-k1senEIY1idHFIqKeDRp0gB-h9w9dIxIgaf_xPLkautr18elchazVknLo1uuaL0u8PMjxB9L6MAwbaGpVH/s1600/suitors_cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJMBEU1ABLb1Q2tnlIaq_jxV7t7vSM0KcUSM2vNNTi3WhqtP_INThpvfak-k1senEIY1idHFIqKeDRp0gB-h9w9dIxIgaf_xPLkautr18elchazVknLo1uuaL0u8PMjxB9L6MAwbaGpVH/s320/suitors_cards.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Game theory is specifically defined as "the study of mathematical models of conflict and cooperation between intelligent rational decision-makers", but all that detail is for a different type of blog. This blog focuses on Jane Austen. And my mind is racing thinking of the stripped-down plots of her novels and the fabulous manipulations and meddling that ensue in them all. <br />
<br />
Ah, who knew? Jane Austen, the godmother of Game Theory. <br />
<br />
<i>(for more information, check out the podcast at www.freakonomics.com</i>)<br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-48945084083252255372013-03-23T16:04:00.002-07:002013-03-23T16:04:22.417-07:00Does it have to be a Fanny vs. Mary world?I usually read Mansfield Park with a slight yawn and sense of frustration with the character of Fanny Price--wanting to shake her and encourage her to stand up for herself. And I usually read it with a wary eye on the character of Mary Crawford--mesmerized by her vitality but suspicious, and even, I'll admit it, a little fearful of her manipulations. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4MTaPnVONdCZHSZcu6z0Rm6xfXBj_axzR49cQOXc3LbDJpZUHcStc34arR8X8bkXZ9_ZAZsX1S6XIbrW9pCcANyG29niTFUOtIsHb3akLS-OeYMrK7miEmZKtaqgfiXLK19LKSbUXkjp/s1600/mary+and+jane+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4MTaPnVONdCZHSZcu6z0Rm6xfXBj_axzR49cQOXc3LbDJpZUHcStc34arR8X8bkXZ9_ZAZsX1S6XIbrW9pCcANyG29niTFUOtIsHb3akLS-OeYMrK7miEmZKtaqgfiXLK19LKSbUXkjp/s320/mary+and+jane+2.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
This got me thinking...why do we always pit these two characters against one another? Fanny vs Mary, virtuous vs decadent, passive vs active. In the past, I always thought that if it came to blows, Mary would win the battle hands-down. But after thinking it through, I'm no longer certain. <br />
<br />
In reality, their lives are moving in a similar path, with a similar end-goal of survival in a time when women did not have much power except in their manipulations of connections, wealth, and marriage. <br />
<br />
Granted, Mary Crawford is assumed to have been raised in wealth and status, while Fanny Price was brought up in poverty until coming to live with the Bertrams as a dependent. But essentially they are both on the same path--vying for the attention of Edmund, ingratiating themselves into the wealthy Bertram family's lifestyle, encouraging/diverting Henry's behavior. And on top of that, they are both honest and straightforward: Mary in her pursuit of status, income, and marriage, and Fanny in her pursuit of morality, love, and stability. <br />
<br />
So I am looking forward to re-reading Mansfield Park, but this time I'll keep an open and admiring mind to how they are both surviving, and thriving, in 19th Century England. And I'll be re-thinking who may win that fight, or even who they may team up against...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVq1CCHHOg9KVTS9P3Q4Y_Gqht1YHS-AT_wIEmkGiGfxQdhJdVCNPYwZkmhUyj-QvoYQ-PCiuOvCSg_cBvxgUdfPPwjR0mfRf3Q6sPuYHw99nLyu0pqaMAJjBGj_lb9WVhhhmeJdmgd0zS/s1600/mary+and+jane+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVq1CCHHOg9KVTS9P3Q4Y_Gqht1YHS-AT_wIEmkGiGfxQdhJdVCNPYwZkmhUyj-QvoYQ-PCiuOvCSg_cBvxgUdfPPwjR0mfRf3Q6sPuYHw99nLyu0pqaMAJjBGj_lb9WVhhhmeJdmgd0zS/s320/mary+and+jane+3.jpg" /></a><br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-51666890507520349102013-02-26T16:47:00.002-08:002013-02-26T16:47:51.411-08:00Jane Austen and Health Care: Rest, prayers, and wealthI recently experienced a pinched nerve that caused me endless torment--I was laid up in bed for 3 days and only survived because of the ministrations of an awesome chiropractor and copious amounts of Ibuprofen. This got me to thinking, of course, of Jane Austen. What in the heck would her characters have done faced with this same affliction? Health care in 19th century England was minimal, at best, and positively harmful, at worst. <br />
<br />
To answer this question, I first opened Emma. Mr. Woodhouse, a hypochondriac in today's parlance, would have been my firmest advocate. He would have me eating gruel and warming myself by the fire in no time. A carriage would be dispatched for Mr. Perry, the apothecary, who could provide me with a tincture or, perhaps hopefully, a little quinine. That didn't sound quite so bad. <br />
<br />
Sense and Sensibility appeared a bit more dire. Once again the apothecary Mr. Harris seemed to run the show, and bad luck to you if words such as "putrid tendency" and "infection" came out of his mouth. Recovery seemed to basically consist of rest and the prayers of those around you. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCZtTrtPFreFbBXueB9vKdJs9mU_gXnAc91e0M3XfwT_VmdihwoduWJ6kgRscMaYC2GiXK43OUjFKsKch1xE8Ck4Iq7hxKyTTL2NPG0P1pF7QlWooZf0LQp4uRyUuGENxC227dMle9tNz/s1600/marianne_sick.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioCZtTrtPFreFbBXueB9vKdJs9mU_gXnAc91e0M3XfwT_VmdihwoduWJ6kgRscMaYC2GiXK43OUjFKsKch1xE8Ck4Iq7hxKyTTL2NPG0P1pF7QlWooZf0LQp4uRyUuGENxC227dMle9tNz/s320/marianne_sick.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
It is only in Persuasion that we hear any mention of a surgeon. As Louisa lies lifeless on the pavement, a surgeon examines her ("only a severe contusion to the head"). All of Louisa's friends and family members are at least provided cordials and restoratives as they wait for her to heal, a healing that is, yes, very long and drawn-out but which eventually ends in love and marriage. However, Louisa's recovery is in direct contrast to Anne's widowed friend Mrs. Smith who survives a rheumatic fever only to become a "cripple" who is shunned by society and living in poverty. <br />
<br />
So basically I learned that I am very, very grateful for today's world of medicine and health care. It doesn't sound so bad to be able to allow our bodies and minds the time to heal on their own and it doesn't sound so bad to have the comfort and care of those around us; however, I learned that being sick and convalescing could really only be afforded by the wealthy and well-to-do! <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XF906RbYqCWxpp4RB4ClUXlc8cJLZtdQIugP7pIA_ZkxAoZ71DPlFR_DZRVLv4WAByXNY-PWgbpXOKo7vTfN7R5AoCUchOSS1w0UxOfmxY4Tml-0A5Z8xqwl6qo_9pAnK9pQRXf_ZcPw/s1600/persuasion_fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XF906RbYqCWxpp4RB4ClUXlc8cJLZtdQIugP7pIA_ZkxAoZ71DPlFR_DZRVLv4WAByXNY-PWgbpXOKo7vTfN7R5AoCUchOSS1w0UxOfmxY4Tml-0A5Z8xqwl6qo_9pAnK9pQRXf_ZcPw/s320/persuasion_fall.jpg" /></a><br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-5265660575191665322012-11-18T16:55:00.000-08:002012-11-18T16:55:48.779-08:00Jane Austen Characters as Modern-Day Musicians: Pink, Kesha, and Alicia KeysI have recently started learning how to play the bass guitar. It is giving me a whole new sense of appreciation for music, and I have begun to listen to music and view musicians in an entirely new light. <br />
<br />
<br />
So, as most things make me think of Jane Austen, this made me think about her novels differently. What current musicians and music would best illustrate these characters?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFT78ECOZu4zJi8fbyMbPv9KWWwjM0mLSvankO2pqsAeXhrNmYDQ87XIT3O5JwU1g3vlId9a3yeRVkfn98ufLvwGFP1LsRuUWFF3F8c_vhZghAhBXTWZEMXZf0XfVHN9jGneMTjBhumIDj/s1600/pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="267" width="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFT78ECOZu4zJi8fbyMbPv9KWWwjM0mLSvankO2pqsAeXhrNmYDQ87XIT3O5JwU1g3vlId9a3yeRVkfn98ufLvwGFP1LsRuUWFF3F8c_vhZghAhBXTWZEMXZf0XfVHN9jGneMTjBhumIDj/s320/pink.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I immediately think of Pink for Pride and Prejudice’s Elizabeth Bennett. Pink is full of spunk, witty lyrics, and imaginative song rhythms. Plus, just like Elizabeth, she is a longtime favorite and has great staying power. Her beautiful and introverted older sister Jane? Nora Jones—her songs are lovely and engaging melodies that entice your attention but soon fade into the distance. Her foolish younger sister Lydia? A young Britney Spears—all show and no talent, full of vamping and immature sex appeal. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu5M-SUaxfMk-rwCviwk6fhVq8Cp6vAG3SesJndMfEyV7XJx5KhFN9DX42fIEue5brsway5_TzKMKYyaRLRiFjt4Iz_K8eX7ME9wbgQq9FyWtnlxc80vUHkxGoZfiT3zox8eX2Cg6ZW3qW/s1600/kesha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu5M-SUaxfMk-rwCviwk6fhVq8Cp6vAG3SesJndMfEyV7XJx5KhFN9DX42fIEue5brsway5_TzKMKYyaRLRiFjt4Iz_K8eX7ME9wbgQq9FyWtnlxc80vUHkxGoZfiT3zox8eX2Cg6ZW3qW/s320/kesha.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Marianne Dashwood in Sense and Sensibility? Kesha all the way. A little bit ridiculous and brash, but a lot of fun with her catchy singsong voice and techno attention-getting beats. Marianne’s sister Elinor makes me think of Adele—much more somber and mature in her song choices, but with an elegant and controlled voice that soothes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtz4YomYZksALlCY6Gd0ZgRlnkp5gkP0IN9g6MpKJ3Y5VcD_RJqgc_Q57g2m3o7xdlono2uQwZ68oocls8jX1-QDgHC2H3beYuoPoxvhBjw13dczmZY5S1fv5TyqRC4ZmNlYMdi8hGPBx5/s1600/taylor+swift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtz4YomYZksALlCY6Gd0ZgRlnkp5gkP0IN9g6MpKJ3Y5VcD_RJqgc_Q57g2m3o7xdlono2uQwZ68oocls8jX1-QDgHC2H3beYuoPoxvhBjw13dczmZY5S1fv5TyqRC4ZmNlYMdi8hGPBx5/s320/taylor+swift.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Hmm...Emma’s Emma Woodhouse… I would have to say Taylor Swift. A little immature and focused primarily on relationships, but overall, imaginative in the musical rifts and rhythms and a consistent squeaky-clean favorite of the musical world. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1acQGtyakBKLchVk-QMB8nRjnwCS6y6_ntD-aohfx-qyKqVZlkXtNaOKhQtJI2sefn9BNLg9TOpQ_uNeKh8a9LkRnkmtKltQatXiSbmbw270xCpVtilnZRcCyINRDtfYkl6cNG4FU9sB/s1600/alicia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="196" width="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG1acQGtyakBKLchVk-QMB8nRjnwCS6y6_ntD-aohfx-qyKqVZlkXtNaOKhQtJI2sefn9BNLg9TOpQ_uNeKh8a9LkRnkmtKltQatXiSbmbw270xCpVtilnZRcCyINRDtfYkl6cNG4FU9sB/s320/alicia.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
And my favorite, Anne Elliot of Persuasion? That would have to be Alicia Keys—the subtle use of her voice and melodies, the importance of the piano, the inherent romanticism in her lyrics, all set in major keys of hope and optimism. <br />
<br />
<br />
I’ll have to think a little more on the male characters in Jane Austen’s novels. I am thinking they are more Classic Rock musicians, with a little Bruno Mars, Psy, and Adam Levine thrown in. <br />
<br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-4719041443546197742012-11-12T20:16:00.001-08:002012-11-12T20:24:27.161-08:00How It Should Have Ended: Emma with Frank and Elizabeth a spinster aunt?My niece recently showed me the YouTube link to a series of creative and funny changes to the endings of movies, called “How It Should Have Ended.” They made me laugh, until I started to think about Jane Austen. What if her books had ended differently? <br />
<br />
EMMA<br />
Emma could have easily missed her opportunity with Mr. Knightley, slowly evolving into a wealthy version of the incessant Miss Bates. Or why couldn’t Emma have been a good match with Frank Churchill? He made her laugh and act her age; they could have gone on double dates with Mr. Knightley and Jane Fairfax.<br />
<br />
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE<br />
God forbid if Elizabeth Bennett had been forced into marriage with Mr. Collins in order to beat the entail. Hard as I try, though, I just can’t imagine her winding up with him, or even Wickham, or ever deferring to Lady de Bourgh. Maybe she would have enjoyed the freedom of living with Jane and Mr. Bingley, being the lovable spinster aunt to their children and continuing to use her sharp wit in society.<br />
<br />
SENSE AND SENSIBILITY<br />
Elinor Dashwood could have fallen in love with the similarly-minded Colonel Brandon and missed all of that heartache with Lucy and Edward. Actually, why not really shake things up and let her mother Mrs. Dashwood find love again with Colonel Brandon? And why not let Marianne run off to London to enjoy a bohemian life of romance, balls, literature and music? She could have become the 19th century version of Anais Nin or Frida Kahlo. <br />
<br />
PERSUASION<br />
An alternative ending to Persuasion is easy—a marriage between the young Anne Elliott and the newly enlisted Frederick Wentworth that is welcomed and approved by Sir Walter and Lady Russell. Although I guess that would be way too easy. Maybe Anne Elliott could go through some psychotherapy to find a way to stand up to her oafish father and self-infatuated sisters, and then she could write about her experiences and becomes a famous and rich author. <br />
<br />
Although it is fun to imagine alternative endings, it makes me appreciate all the more the artistry and talent of Jane Austen. She has created engaging and beloved characters and timeless plots that endure to this day. <br />
J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-19542917358498485542011-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:002011-11-30T08:00:01.816-08:005 Tips to a Good Life, According to Emma<i>“Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her.”<br />
</i><br />
<br />
Emma Woodhouse, from Jane Austen’s novel <i>Emma</i>, has decidedly stubborn opinions on how one should live one’s life. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7veT37aK_OkOLui-RNlA8Qm2r7FnJlaVKSlfeWvd_ateaf_QbG0OThaKeP2YJI4OWUhKNHAOHnKBrThEdLarXMabaImUHisucHzdQ_wFlZmaQI52hhqoRPESWKLDJ5CoBSlzD6pbarj-m/s1600/emma-paltrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7veT37aK_OkOLui-RNlA8Qm2r7FnJlaVKSlfeWvd_ateaf_QbG0OThaKeP2YJI4OWUhKNHAOHnKBrThEdLarXMabaImUHisucHzdQ_wFlZmaQI52hhqoRPESWKLDJ5CoBSlzD6pbarj-m/s320/emma-paltrow.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1. Be born wealthy, but no so wealthy that one is obligated to hang out with superiors and act too cultivated.</b> Emma enjoys reigning over her small town and acknowledges that having an income brings respectability. She maintains high standards for her behavior and education; however, she often gets distracted by other things than reading and studying. <br />
<br />
<b>2. Have a strong character and a witty mind.</b> Emma enjoys sharing her opinions and influencing those around her with her wisdom and experience; to back up these actions, whether they are successful or not, she has a quick-thinking mind and a sharp tongue. <br />
<br />
<b>3. Avoid living a life of excess and vanity.</b> Emma is very judgmental of individuals who seems to display “an air of foppery and nonsense.” Rationality in plans, moderation in expense, and a warmth of heart are much more important to her. <br />
<br />
<b>4. Always expect the best and stay positive. </b> Emma feels that she should only deserve the best treatment from others; rebuking and condemning those who are not up to her high standards. She often attempts to share this way of life with her friends and family members.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Be willing to admit that sometimes your actions, no matter how well-intentioned, can bring disaster!</b> (see #2,3,4, in fact, read the entire book <i>Emma</i>!)J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-7995544758681743262011-11-24T13:06:00.000-08:002011-11-24T13:08:35.769-08:00In Honor of Thanksgiving: Gratitude in Jane Austen's Novels (118 times)In honor of Thanksgiving, I’ve been thinking a lot about gratitude and thankfulness. And upon checking out the website www.writelikeausten.com, I discovered that Jane Austen actually used the word "gratitude" 118 times in her novels, “grateful” 68 times, “thank” 119 times, and “thankful” 34 times (such an awesome website idea, I know right?! Jane Austen fans think of everything) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeJDAgANdTz0bczCYoM005SRg6xr-RG_S3y9ZPmxM14pEXj_WrAE2BSyTxoUqtV9wGQKhmksC2s_Te2WYFmnIh1Ouq-HMHschoyab5jCKyzcEdgonBoekRAM4ET4igJzNiA7k34iYCD6e/s1600/picture+of+jane+with+book+titles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeJDAgANdTz0bczCYoM005SRg6xr-RG_S3y9ZPmxM14pEXj_WrAE2BSyTxoUqtV9wGQKhmksC2s_Te2WYFmnIh1Ouq-HMHschoyab5jCKyzcEdgonBoekRAM4ET4igJzNiA7k34iYCD6e/s320/picture+of+jane+with+book+titles.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
So let’s check out how some of Jane Austen’s characters express their gratitude. <br />
<br />
Elizabeth Bennet to Darcy upon realizing that Mr. Darcy had, in essence, rescued the family from gossip and ill will:<br />
“I can no longer help thanking you for your unexampled kindness... Ever since I have known it, I have been most anxious to acknowledge to you how gratefully I feel it. Were it known to the rest of my family, I should not have merely my own gratitude to express….Let me thank you again and again, in the name of all my family, for that generous compassion which induced you to take so much trouble, and bear so many mortifications...”<br />
(pp. 365-366, <i>Pride and Prejudice</i>) <br />
<br />
<i>Sense and Sensibility</i> is full of gratitude—here Mrs. Dashwood thanks a handsome stranger for helping her daughter recover from a fall in the rain:<br />
“Had he been even old, ugly, and vulgar, the gratitude and kindness of Mrs. Dashwood would have been secured by any act of attention to her child; but the influence of youth, beauty, and elegance, gave an interest to the action which came home to her feelings. She thanked him again and again; and with a sweetness of address which always attended her, invited him to be seated. “<br />
(p. 42)<br />
<br />
And here the eldest daughter Elinor thanks her neighbor Colonel Brandon for his thoughtfulness:<br />
“…her esteem for the general benevolence, and her gratitude for the particular friendship, which together prompted Colonel Brandon to this act, were strongly felt, and warmly expressed. She thanked him for it with all her heart…”<br />
(p. 283)<br />
<br />
Emma has the good fortune to not even need words to express her thankfulness to her friend Mr. Knightley:<br />
“Emma had no opportunity of speaking to Mr. Knightley till after supper; but, when they were all in the ball-room again, her eyes invited him irresistibly to come to her and be thanked.”<br />
(p. 330, <i>Emma</i>)<br />
<br />
And best of all, when Anne Elliot realizes her true love returns the affection, she positively glows in her gratitude:<br />
“An interval of meditation, serious and grateful, was the best corrective of every thing dangerous in such high-wrought felicity; and she went to her room, and grew steadfast and fearless in the thankfulness of her enjoyment.” <br />
(p. 245, <i>Persuasion</i>)<br />
<br />
So, in the spirit of Jane Austen and Thanksgiving, I am conscious of the opinion to acknowledge gratitude and admiration of you and yours!<br />
<br />
(all references based on the the Oxford University Press editions)J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-60956433956216579962011-11-18T08:00:00.000-08:002011-11-18T08:00:01.947-08:00Who is your favorite Jane Austen character?I get funny looks when I defensively respond to the friendly question of “who is your favorite Jane Austen character?” <br />
<br />
Most people assume I love the intelligent, witty Elizabeth Bennet, who stands up for herself, acts with strength and reason, and refuses to give in to societal norms (<i>Pride and Prejudice</i>).<br />
<br />
Others think of the fun-loving, passionate Marianne Dashwood, who lives on poetry and music, hurtling whole-heartedly into life heedless of the consequences. Or her counterpart, the calm, rational, loving Elinor Dashwood (<i>Sense and Sensibility</i>).<br />
<br />
Even Emma Woodhouse, with her misguided acts of charity and interfering notions of friendship, may come up. For all of her wealth and status, Emma still strives to improve herself and help those around her (<i>Emma</i>). <br />
<br />
And for those in the Jane Austen know, occasionally the young, dramatic Catherine Morland (<i>Northanger Abbey</i>) or the ethical Fanny Price (<i>Mansfield Park</i>) may cross some lips.<br />
<br />
And indeed I do love all of these characters! <br />
<br />
But my heart will always be with sweet, kind, patient Anne Elliot (<i>Persuasion</i>). Anne doesn’t get the exciting lines, the dramatic dance moves, or the multiple love interests. In fact, in today’s Hollywood, she would be considered a B movie actress. But oh how she would stand out in those B movies! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Q2w9UiBXnfStDhyphenhyphenyZOaLAiHH5QjXa-B6xJgXeMcQ7M4Af5DCyFnX0lv-TZq2BtnsbFYq569_TQDL5wHsuB-55l-ykR3JUe_f7-Ez99LMxwuiH3YUiwsQbKuV-xr8thyphenhyphenCfOI8dDi48pcU/s1600/anne+elliot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="222" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Q2w9UiBXnfStDhyphenhyphenyZOaLAiHH5QjXa-B6xJgXeMcQ7M4Af5DCyFnX0lv-TZq2BtnsbFYq569_TQDL5wHsuB-55l-ykR3JUe_f7-Ez99LMxwuiH3YUiwsQbKuV-xr8thyphenhyphenCfOI8dDi48pcU/s320/anne+elliot.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Anne has a quiet power and strength of character that grows from a bare glimmer to a shining star. We peek into her past to learn of her struggles to find herself and the dire consequences of having listened to others instead of herself. And we walk with her as she is underappreciated and misunderstood yet stays true to herself. And we cheer her on as she finds her voice and her will and refuses to give in to the vanities of her family, the false claims of her friends, and the influence of societal standards. Best of all, we celebrate with her when, in the end, she gets all that she deserves. <br />
<br />
So I answer defensively to the question “who is your favorite Jane Austen character?” because most people display a blank face when I respond. Just as in the book, Anne is underappreciated. But I know better. <br />
<br />
How about you? Who is your favorite Jane Austen character?J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-88067445804231304832011-11-16T08:00:00.000-08:002011-11-16T08:00:13.174-08:00Take a hike!: Exercise and entertainment in Jane Austen’s world<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOQ3BJp_d2QwCJTGUxE-uy3iQxpz71JMFoifHGsINDZqeOBR2adu0suf1wTXoEEwwxRHFDzzxFEt1QpmD21vJTwb62x02H7WuAZ_zDomOfI-HHZEI6avyTFh-jLUyICuDwDs1LhwYbjT5/s1600/the+bennetts+walking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="143" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOQ3BJp_d2QwCJTGUxE-uy3iQxpz71JMFoifHGsINDZqeOBR2adu0suf1wTXoEEwwxRHFDzzxFEt1QpmD21vJTwb62x02H7WuAZ_zDomOfI-HHZEI6avyTFh-jLUyICuDwDs1LhwYbjT5/s320/the+bennetts+walking.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
For all the strictures and constraints in Jane Austen’s 19th century England, there are some surprisingly good stress management techniques. The characters are constantly visiting friends, drinking tea, playing card games, listening to piano music, dancing at balls, and taking hikes. No stressed-out, email-checking, can’t-go-anywhere-without-my-calendar people here!<br />
<br />
Taking hikes, in particular, seems to accomplish a vast multitude of benefits: exercise, meditation, socialization, entertainment. Not to mention that it is a great way to find potential suitors!<br />
<br />
After walking 3 miles to visit her ill sister, Elizabeth Bennett gets noticed (negatively) by the snarky Miss Bingley and (positively) by the enigmatic Mr. Darcy (Pride and Prejudice). Marianne Dashwood stumbles in the rain and badly twists her ankle during a walk, only to be rescued by the gallant Mr. Willoughby who literally sweeps her off her feet (Sense and Sensibility). Anne Elliott’s quick thinking and deftness in helping her friend Louisa after a dangerous fall during a walk in Lyme regains her the regard of the noble Captain Wentworth (Persuasion). <br />
<br />
And even if romance is not for you, taking a hike can improve the looks:<br />
“She has nothing, in short, to recommend her, but being an excellent walker. I shall never forget her appearance this morning. She really looked almost wild” (about Elizabeth Bennett, in Pride and Prejudice, p. 35). <br />
<br />
And soothe the mind:<br />
“Her pleasure in the walk must arise from the exercise and the day, from the view of the last smiles of the year upon the tawny leaves and withered hedges, and from repeating to herself some few of the thousand poetical descriptions extant of autumn… (Anne Elliott, in Persuasion, p. 84). <br />
<br />
And forget TV! Walking can provide endless entertainment with friends and family:<br />
“When the weather is settled, and I have recovered my strength,” said she, “we will take long walks together every day. We will walk to the far a t the edge of the down, and see how the children go on; we will walk to Sir John’s new plantations at Barton-Cross, and the Abbeyland; and we will often go to the old ruins of the Priory…” (Marianne Dashwood, in Sense and Sensibility, p. 343). <br />
<br />
Almost makes me want to throw my TV out the window and take a walk right now! Who’s in with me?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEfr2chu8_JOJ44cxiy7WOo4UynNrSXA4Y7-dgFro5VaA3pixS8rRQ9BzrFYMimtv23lYbXqXu5P4XtMQhtZVGEcmWm3SyJvVcpAYMRSQy1bL1ac03GURmh7SoKm1dvpDWH0CzTsHIbkJ/s1600/elizabeth+and+darcy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="234" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEfr2chu8_JOJ44cxiy7WOo4UynNrSXA4Y7-dgFro5VaA3pixS8rRQ9BzrFYMimtv23lYbXqXu5P4XtMQhtZVGEcmWm3SyJvVcpAYMRSQy1bL1ac03GURmh7SoKm1dvpDWH0CzTsHIbkJ/s320/elizabeth+and+darcy.jpg" /></a></div>J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-38955037255725049032011-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:002011-11-15T20:02:41.893-08:00The force (and big money) of Jane AustenJane Austen is truly a force to be reckoned with--witness her 19th century impact on the 21st century world! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoo8h0RmUNArsz4WK1miduRChHdHd7oBdEzT30rJZkdUb5WRnMagKqELRJTxmuxWLTKtlUwuTdIOp0La1lyWW58Jb9EAH7cFOH9B_qE0N5WCgOtvNX4Yl3MREp93cJO0oWa1miuDTNfID/s1600/mr+darcy+and+elizabeth+bennet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="202" width="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoo8h0RmUNArsz4WK1miduRChHdHd7oBdEzT30rJZkdUb5WRnMagKqELRJTxmuxWLTKtlUwuTdIOp0La1lyWW58Jb9EAH7cFOH9B_qE0N5WCgOtvNX4Yl3MREp93cJO0oWa1miuDTNfID/s320/mr+darcy+and+elizabeth+bennet.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The bestselling Twilight book by Stephenie Meyer was supposedly based on the characters and plot of Pride and Prejudice. Personally, I could never imagine the majestic Mr. Darcy to ever lower himself to hang out with the mopey Edward Cullen. And the isolated and stubborn Bella Swan would only seem to annoy the witty and engaging Elizabeth Bennet; however, who am I to say…<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfrK7NhpKQAWa21XvjfaJQ40FUHiXqPWvOwc2VpA8l5uP0VxQ_aelOosn9AQXAsZsd1rJjNE2UhkRMcxpm4bpR92P9IQnXvlj5IcHE16kYBc3jV7WJoxqwfSL5ZtIS3er2Ch76ZCzj0h8b/s1600/james+mcavoy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="64" width="96" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfrK7NhpKQAWa21XvjfaJQ40FUHiXqPWvOwc2VpA8l5uP0VxQ_aelOosn9AQXAsZsd1rJjNE2UhkRMcxpm4bpR92P9IQnXvlj5IcHE16kYBc3jV7WJoxqwfSL5ZtIS3er2Ch76ZCzj0h8b/s320/james+mcavoy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
John Spence’s biography Becoming Jane Austen became the popular 2007 movie Becoming Jane that won the 2007 People's Choice Award for "Favorite Independent Movie". Becoming Jane starred Anne Hathaway and James McAvoy…ah, James McAvoy… those dreamy eyes… Hmmm…whoops, what was I talking about? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiuwsGlIf3L-f8H9jHw9OANMwgeP3j8pJYGlXeswHdjMuK-5PmJGHzVHe9dNg7f9mSy8ws19-xA7Z0oqyA3EQclH4n5GWemfRqXpxB5skv-8GYoXnUt5AytQ1NsHBKVSUqnwwEuERVc9p/s1600/pride+and+prejudice+and+zombies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiuwsGlIf3L-f8H9jHw9OANMwgeP3j8pJYGlXeswHdjMuK-5PmJGHzVHe9dNg7f9mSy8ws19-xA7Z0oqyA3EQclH4n5GWemfRqXpxB5skv-8GYoXnUt5AytQ1NsHBKVSUqnwwEuERVc9p/s320/pride+and+prejudice+and+zombies.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by authors Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith hit #3 on the New York Times Bestseller List! Funnier still, Entertainment Weekly magazine announced in their May 6, 2011 edition that director Craig Gillespie (director of Lars and the Real Girl) has signed on to direct the movie adaptation of this book! I could have done without Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, but Pride and Prejudice and Zombies was awesome--I really wish I had had the idea to write that book. Sigh. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCasOYXGP0VMrPtR5UJLu9mDQLPsxwmv88g2JfjDz7_R-sX34-BWImiNxy56vgCnvki6Fc7RKTuvl-7wiWInkr7VpcytqyWw5V-UDFa1kmaNX_5XyqwroW0EjOuVHg01xCMGjWcVYDvo3w/s1600/from+prada+to+nada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="317" width="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCasOYXGP0VMrPtR5UJLu9mDQLPsxwmv88g2JfjDz7_R-sX34-BWImiNxy56vgCnvki6Fc7RKTuvl-7wiWInkr7VpcytqyWw5V-UDFa1kmaNX_5XyqwroW0EjOuVHg01xCMGjWcVYDvo3w/s320/from+prada+to+nada.jpg" /></a></div><br />
New productions of Jane Austen classics continue to flourish—including the 2009 Masterpiece version of Emma, the 2008 ITV Lost in Austen series, and the 2007 the Jane Austen Book Club movie. And let’s not forget the Latina version of Sense and Sensibility, From Prada to Nada (2011). And older productions of Jane Austen have made the big bucks—the 2005 movie version of Pride and Prejudice grossed over $120 million and the 1995 movie version of Sense and Sensibility over $134 million. I would spend money to see another Jane Austen-related movie or buy another Jane Austen-related book. In a heart beat. Better yet, I would be willing to write another Jane Austen-related movie or book! <br />
<br />
So, to those who may scoff at the mention of Jane Austen, you and me, we know better. She has some serious staying power.J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-81486889263952607342011-11-08T19:14:00.000-08:002011-11-08T19:14:54.895-08:00Jane Austen on love and relationships--Harriet Smith style!Advice on love, relationships, and marriage? Jane Austen has it! And more interestingly, just about each of her characters have a different opinion about it. Early on in Jane Austen’s novel<i> Emma</i>, we are introduced to Emma Woodhouse’s new friend Harriet with a warning. We are warned that she has no clever connections and no societal name. She is pretty but not clever at all. Does this mean disaster for love? Doom and gloom? Let’s find out…<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHyHM7qoIXmdhHZr1jbkY0PNP1UeiO4M-c71oOeSQpU1XC0O3XdzPw5aBoW2s2ycaQy2tQq3BnUUtpuxJSTOsBCciBVbVSSak3MZhZ0R1q8isCNAw04ECmcepfn60AE2VKy7iF6FyBr0y/s1600/emma+and+harriet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrHyHM7qoIXmdhHZr1jbkY0PNP1UeiO4M-c71oOeSQpU1XC0O3XdzPw5aBoW2s2ycaQy2tQq3BnUUtpuxJSTOsBCciBVbVSSak3MZhZ0R1q8isCNAw04ECmcepfn60AE2VKy7iF6FyBr0y/s320/emma+and+harriet.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
1) Harriet and Robert Martin<br />
<br />
<i>“He had gone three miles round one day, in order to bring her some walnuts, because she had said how fond she was of them—and in every thing else he was so very obliging” (p. 28)<br />
<br />
</i>It is quickly learned that Harriet has attracted the attentions of a nearby farmer; a wonderful find for the stifling class hierarchy and conceits of the day. Will this work out?<br />
<br />
2) Harriet and Mr. Elton<br />
<br />
No! Why? Emma believes that her friend Harriet should be a gentleman’s wife and quickly maneuvers Harriet’s interest to the village vicar, Mr. Elton. <br />
<br />
<i>“Whatever you say is always right,” cried Harriet, “and therefore I suppose, and believe, and hope it must be so; but otherwise I could not have imagined it. It is so much beyond any thing I deserve. Mr. Elton, who might marry any body!” (p. 74) <br />
</i><br />
This supremely conceited man seems to play along with Harriet and Emma, until it is discovered that it is not Harriet he intends to snag but the rich Emma herself. Yikes. <br />
<br />
3) Harriet and Frank Churchill<br />
<br />
While trying to help Harriet overcome her thwarted love, Emma then comes to believe that Harriet is in love with the frivolous and fun-loving Frank Churchill:<br />
<br />
<i>“Service! Oh! It was such an inexpressible obligation! –the very recollection of it, and all that I felt at the time—when I saw him coming—his noble look—and my wretchedness before. Such a change! In one moment such a change! From perfect misery to perfect happiness.” (Harriet, p. 342)<br />
</i><br />
However, Emma soon learns that she is mistaken about Harriet and Frank Churchill. Whoops. <br />
<br />
4) Harriet and Mr. Knightley<br />
<br />
Emma is mistaken because Harriet has instead attached herself to the older, mature Mr. Knightley (see quote above, doing double duty!). This turns out troublesome because Emma herself is in love with Mr. Knightley. <br />
<br />
5) Harriet and Robert Martin<br />
<br />
Which all brings us back to Harriet’s first love, Mr. Martin. <br />
<br />
<i>“Before the end of September, Emma attended Harriet to church, and saw her hand bestowed on Robert Martin with so complete a satisfaction, as no remembrances, even with Mr. Elton as he stood before them, could impair.” (p. 482)<br />
<br />
</i>The final word of advice on love and relationships according to Jane Austen’s Harriet? Be open, faithful and true; and if it doesn’t work out, get over it and get someone else. <br />
<br />
(all quotes from the Oxford Illustrated edition of Emma by Jane Austen)J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-30841605150069542492011-11-02T19:40:00.000-07:002011-11-02T19:40:20.094-07:00How Jane Austen Saved Me: An overly dramatic story, I admit itNo-one ever wants to get THAT kind of call, but I got it. The kind of call that makes time stand still and fear blossom in your chest. I got “the call” in which I learned my husband had been involved in a car accident and was being transported to the ER by an ambulance. No details were known except that the truck he had been driving had been totaled and no-one else had been involved. <br />
<br />
Seven hours, 1 CT scan, 3 nurses, 2 doctors, multiple heart-wrenching calls, and many stitches later, my husband was released under my supervision with a nasty gash on his head, a concussion, and several broken ribs. For a week, he was out of action—mainly confined to his Lazy-Boy chair in a haze of meds. During this time I was out of action also—I literally dropped every work-related and personal obligation to sit at home with him. I didn’t even want to leave the house for fear I might miss something... <br />
<br />
Okay, okay, you might say—what is this, I’m not reading this blog to hear about truck accidents, pain, and fear, where is the Jane Austen?! No worries, have patience, I am coming to it right now. <br />
<br />
During this week, that is when Jane Austen saved me. In between answering phone calls and emails and making sure my husband was okay, I happened to open Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility. And even with my fears about health insurance coverage and future employment options and traumatic brain injuries, I actually smiled at her descriptions of society interactions and personalities. I tore through the book and headed to Pride and Prejudice. I found strength and courage from Elizabeth Bennett and resolved not to give in to histrionics like her mother. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D50ZGPfNMmX_HZH3RY3gaopyYMmDTOUiseItkKcUjHnctmEqj3xFyf1tVxdJWVDwnLn0S1KzO4t3gulyzzOwpj7b-dTvjOsb8h7_mdb8uGNVEce-rkKVaFkJv4iQPM_n20NallY5PoAJ/s1600/Mrs-Bennet-in-raptures-in-the-BBC-dramatization.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="181" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-D50ZGPfNMmX_HZH3RY3gaopyYMmDTOUiseItkKcUjHnctmEqj3xFyf1tVxdJWVDwnLn0S1KzO4t3gulyzzOwpj7b-dTvjOsb8h7_mdb8uGNVEce-rkKVaFkJv4iQPM_n20NallY5PoAJ/s320/Mrs-Bennet-in-raptures-in-the-BBC-dramatization.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Emma and Persuasion reinforced a sense of courage, determination, and redemption. <br />
<br />
I devoured all of Jane Austen’s six main works. And because of that, I sat with my husband with a sense of calm, patience, and hope. My husband slowly healed, our health insurance eventually came through, the support from our family and friends was amazing, and we both ultimately returned to work and life. <br />
<br />
THAT is how Jane Austen saved me.J.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8450155525209524608.post-33881778797324919832011-10-28T20:06:00.000-07:002011-10-28T20:13:56.676-07:00Why Jane Austen?This may come as a surprise to some, but I am finally going to admit it: I worship Jane Austen. <br />
<br />
This is not the trendiest thing to say in today’s world, but there it is. Jane Austen is my hero—I would invite Jane to stay at my house and I wouldn’t complain even if she watched reality TV all day, snored loudly, and forgot to take out the trash. I would love her even if she were the co-worker that ate my food out of the office fridge without asking and talked too long at meetings. I would continue to extol her virtues even if she were the only cashier with a long line of customers who continuously called for time-consuming price checks and gave back incorrect change. That is how much I adore Jane Austen. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKwqOrALYMcWNiTXKNjNdIEmGZAe-K71sekirC-AD7mZdbNkFwkflCQY0Yozn1-PZ1MoRd0omrxIA8py7YwNn_RTOsKe5qkBwiTajhn9d7MXeMkYC3ilQ-bGOB3GXnvlKb5hTRCZe3geP/s1600/jane+austen+modified.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="216" width="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKwqOrALYMcWNiTXKNjNdIEmGZAe-K71sekirC-AD7mZdbNkFwkflCQY0Yozn1-PZ1MoRd0omrxIA8py7YwNn_RTOsKe5qkBwiTajhn9d7MXeMkYC3ilQ-bGOB3GXnvlKb5hTRCZe3geP/s320/jane+austen+modified.gif" /></a></div><br />
Why am I now coming out of the Jane Austen closet? Why would I admit such a societal faux pas as to revere Ms Austen’s every word? It is time, people! It is time to give credit where credit is due—Jane Austen has the answers for each and every one of us. <br />
<br />
The answers to what exactly, you may ask? Well, in a nutshell, to life! Here is a simple example—open up a Jane Austen book to any page and her advice for a good life will pop out at you. <br />
1. Who else would extol us to be “extremely merry all day long” just because there will be a dance in the evening? (Sense and Sensibility, p. 67*) <br />
2. Or to take on long walks because “distance is nothing when one has a motive”? (Pride and Prejudice, p. 32) <br />
3. Or require the best treatment because you “never put up with any other”? (Emma, p. 474) <br />
<br />
Such words of wisdom! I tell you, Jane Austen knows all and that is why I love her. You can even quote me on that. <br />
<br />
*pages quoted are from the Oxford University Press editionJ.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16996001244218779471noreply@blogger.com4