In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Roger E. Moore, a Principal Senior Lecturer in English at Vanderbilt University, sheds light on Jane Austen's connections to the Reformation. They delve into how Austen's works reflect the societal upheaval post-dissolution of the monasteries. Key topics include her critique of gentry and the loss of charity in communities, as well as her nuanced portrayal of power and nostalgia. Moore argues that Austen's insights on women's struggles resonate deeply with contemporary issues, emphasizing her relevance today.
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Austen's Use of Monastery Ruins
Jane Austen's novels reflect the lasting impact of the Dissolution of the Monasteries on British society and landscape.
She used the ruins of monasteries as symbols for political and social upheaval in her era.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Austen's Sacred Landscape Experience
Jane Austen visited and was familiar with many ruined abbeys and former monastic sites throughout her life.
She saw these not just as scenic but as symbols of political and social change.
insights INSIGHT
Austen's View on Dissolution
In the 18th-19th centuries, two opposing views on the dissolution existed: one viewed it as liberation, the other as a great loss.
Jane Austen aligned with the latter tradition, lamenting the loss caused by the dissolution.
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The novel follows Fanny Price, a young girl from a poor family who is sent to live with her wealthy uncle and aunt, Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, at Mansfield Park. Fanny navigates the complexities of her new environment, dealing with the mistreatment by some family members and the kindness of her cousin Edmund. The story unfolds with the arrival of the charming but morally dubious Crawfords, leading to a series of scandals and moral dilemmas. Ultimately, Fanny's integrity and compassion guide her through the challenges, and she finds love and a sense of belonging with Edmund[1][3][5].
Sanditon
Jane Austen
Northanger Abbey
Jane Austen
Northanger Abbey is a coming-of-age story that satirizes the Gothic novels of the late 18th century. The novel follows Catherine Morland, a young and naive girl who loves reading Gothic novels. When she is invited to stay at Northanger Abbey, the home of the Tilney family, her imagination runs wild with expectations of mystery and horror. However, the reality of the abbey is far from her Gothic fantasies. The novel explores Catherine's growth as she learns to distinguish between fiction and reality, and it critiques the societal norms and expectations of her time. Written by Jane Austen, the book was completed in 1803 but published posthumously in 1817 along with Persuasion.
Professor Suzannah Lipscomb is joined by Dr. Roger E. Moore to explore the lesser-known historical context of the works of Jane Austen, born 250 years ago this year. They question how Austen's novels like 'Northanger Abbey' and 'Mansfield Park' reflect on the dissolution of the monasteries and 18th and 19th-century societal changes. Austen used settings like the ruins of monasteries to comment on the political and social upheavals of her era, adding a sophisticated layer to her tales of romance, family, and fortune.
Presented by Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. The researcher is Alice Smith, audio editor is Amy Haddow and the producer is Rob Weinberg. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.
All music courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.
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