Janine Barchas on the Lost Books of Jane Austen

Published in 1811, 'Sense and Sensibility' is Jane Austen's first published novel. It tells the story of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, who, along with their mother and younger sister Margaret, are forced to leave their family estate after their father's death. The novel explores the contrast between Elinor's practical sense and Marianne's emotional sensibility as they experience romantic relationships and heartbreak. Elinor falls in love with Edward Ferrars, who is secretly engaged to another woman, while Marianne becomes infatuated with the unscrupulous John Willoughby. Through their experiences, Austen delves into themes of love, social class, and the balance between reason and emotion necessary for personal happiness.

The novel follows Emma Woodhouse, a beautiful, clever, and rich young woman who has lived nearly twenty-one years with very little distress. Emma decides to take up matchmaking, despite the advice of her friend Mr. Knightley. Her attempts to match her new friend Harriet Smith with various men lead to complications and ultimately test her own detachment from the world of romance. The novel explores themes of education, courtship, and social class in Georgian-Regency England, highlighting Emma's journey of self-discovery and learning from her mistakes.

Published in 1813, 'Pride and Prejudice' is a novel that revolves around the lives of the Bennet family, particularly the second eldest daughter, Elizabeth. The story is set in the early 19th century and explores themes of love, societal expectations, and personal growth. The novel centers on Elizabeth's tumultuous relationship with the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy, whose initial arrogance and reserve gradually give way to a deeper understanding and mutual respect. Through their interactions, both characters learn to overcome their prejudices and flaws, leading to a transformative journey of self-discovery and redemption. The novel also delves into the societal pressures on women to secure marriages, the importance of family, and the nuances of social hierarchy during the British Regency period.

Published in 1819, 'Ivanhoe' is a historical novel that takes place in England in the 1190s, after the Norman Conquest. The story revolves around Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe, a Saxon knight who returns from the Crusades to find his homeland under the corrupt rule of Prince John. Ivanhoe must navigate his forbidden love for Rowena, his father's ward, while also fighting against injustice and supporting King Richard the Lionheart. The novel includes elements of chivalric romance, medievalism, and the struggles between Normans and Saxons, as well as the persecution of Jews. It culminates in a trial by combat where Ivanhoe defends Rebecca, a Jewish woman accused of witchcraft, and ultimately leads to the reconciliation of Ivanhoe with his father and his marriage to Rowena.

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.

Published posthumously in December 1817, *Persuasion* is Jane Austen's last completed novel. The story revolves around Anne Elliot, a 27-year-old woman who, at the age of 19, was persuaded to break off her engagement to Captain Frederick Wentworth due to his lack of wealth and connections. Eight years later, Anne and Captain Wentworth, now a successful naval officer, meet again, setting the stage for a second chance at love and marriage. The novel explores themes of love, social class, regret, and the consequences of pride and persuasion, reflecting the societal norms and expectations of the Regency era in England.

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.

This adaptation was first performed in the fall of 1838, before the full text of Dickens' original novel had been released. It is a serio-comic burletta that deviates from the original novel, and Dickens himself was reportedly horrified by the performance. The adaptation highlights the theatrical interpretation of Dickens' work during the Victorian era.

Published in 1859, 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens is a historical novel that contrasts the lives in London and Paris during the late 18th century. The story revolves around characters such as Charles Darnay, Sydney Carton, and Lucie Manette, each dealing with love, sacrifice, and the profound societal changes brought about by the French Revolution. The novel critiques both the conditions leading up to the Revolution and the Revolution itself, highlighting themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the potential for positive change. Dickens's vivid portrayal of the social disparities and political unrest of the era, along with his iconic opening lines, 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,' make the novel a compelling exploration of human resilience and societal issues.

Middlemarch, written by George Eliot, is a novel that delves into the complexities of provincial life in 19th-century England. The story revolves around the intersecting lives of its characters, particularly Dorothea Brooke and Dr. Tertius Lydgate, as they navigate marriage, vocation, and social class. Eliot critiques the conventional romance narratives of her time by portraying marriage as a complex and often problematic institution. The novel also explores themes of idealism, self-interest, hypocrisy, and the constraints on women's lives. Set in the fictional town of Middlemarch between 1829 and 1832, the novel incorporates historical events such as the Great Reform Act of 1832 and early developments in medicine. Eliot's realistic portrayal of ordinary human life, with its quiet tragedies and small triumphs, has made 'Middlemarch' a masterpiece of English literature.

Written in epistolary form, the novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious scientist who, driven by Enlightenment-era ideas of progress and science, creates a living being from dead body parts. However, upon seeing the creature come to life, Frankenstein is horrified and abandons it. The creature, shunned by society due to its appearance, seeks revenge against its creator, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel explores themes of guilt, loss, and the emotional and moral consequences of scientific hubris, blending elements of Gothic and Romantic literature.

10 Things I Hate About You is a 1999 teen romantic comedy film based on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. It follows Kat Stratford, a rebellious and independent high school student, and Patrick Verona, a charming and mysterious bad boy. Their relationship develops amidst high school drama, societal expectations, and personal growth. The film explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, with a focus on female empowerment and challenging traditional gender roles. It features a memorable soundtrack and iconic scenes that have resonated with audiences for years. The film's success launched the careers of several actors, including Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger.

Written in the epistolary format, 'Lady Susan' revolves around the character of Lady Susan Vernon, a recent widow known for her beauty, charm, and manipulative nature. The story unfolds through a series of letters, detailing Lady Susan's attempts to marry off her daughter Frederica to a wealthy but insipid man, Sir James Martin, while she herself pursues various romantic and financial interests. The novel explores themes of deception, societal norms, and the complexities of relationships, all set against the backdrop of late 18th-century English society. Despite her scandalous reputation, Lady Susan's charm and wit temporarily deceive those around her, including her brother-in-law's younger brother, Reginald De Courcy, until her true character is eventually revealed.

Clueless, a 1995 teen comedy, is a modern adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma. It follows Cher Horowitz, a popular and stylish high school student, as she navigates love, friendship, and social dynamics. The film is known for its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and fashion. It explores themes of identity, social class, and self-discovery, with a focus on female empowerment and challenging traditional gender roles. Clueless's success launched the careers of several actors, including Alicia Silverstone and Brittany Murphy. The film's cultural impact is undeniable, with its fashion and catchphrases still referenced today.

The Lost Books of Jane Austen by Janine Barchas delves into the history of cheap reprints of Austen's novels, which played a crucial role in popularizing her work among the working class. The book is richly illustrated and offers a fresh perspective on Austen's rise to literary fame, highlighting the impact of mass-market paperbacks on her readership. Barchas's research combines traditional bibliography with innovative methods, including the use of eBay auctions and private collections.

This book provides an analysis and interpretation of the prophecies attributed to Nostradamus, offering insights into the historical context and potential meanings of his predictions. Henry C. Roberts's work is a comprehensive look at the prophecies that have captivated readers for centuries.