The Sunday Debate: Austen vs Brontë

Jan 2, 2022

Guest

Dominic West

Join literary heavyweights like John Mullan, a professor and Austen expert, and celebrated author Kate Mosse, alongside acclaimed actors Samuel West and Dominic West, as they passionately debate the merits of Jane Austen versus Emily Brontë. Delve into Austen's intricate character studies and emotional depth in 'Persuasion,' while exploring Brontë's raw passion and complexity in 'Wuthering Heights.' Engage with discussions on societal norms, unfulfilled love, and the profound impact these authors have had on the literary world.

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ANECDOTE

Late Conversion

John Mullan initially found Jane Austen's novels trivial as a teenager.
He later realized her brilliance through teaching and now loves her work.

ANECDOTE

Bronte's Impact

Kate Mosse's passion for Emily Brontë began during her O-levels alongside a dislike for Austen.
Her mother gifted her a wartime edition of Wuthering Heights, solidifying her love for Brontë.

INSIGHT

Austen's Depth

Jane Austen masterfully portrays emotional depth beneath seemingly polite interactions.
Her sentence construction is unique, showcasing her distinct style and wit.

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Death Comes to Pemberley

P.D. James

The taxidermist's daughter

Kate Mosse

The Taxidermist's Daughter is a haunting novel by Kate Mosse, set in 1912 Sussex. It follows Constantia Gifford, who lives with her troubled father in a decaying house. As a mysterious death occurs, Connie must navigate her fragmented memories and the sinister forces around her. The story weaves together elements of mystery, suspense, and gothic atmosphere, culminating in a dramatic conclusion.

Agnes Grey

Anne Brontë

Anne Brontë's "Agnes Grey" is a novel that offers a realistic portrayal of a governess's life in 19th-century England. The novel explores themes of social class, morality, and the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. Brontë's detailed descriptions of Agnes's experiences and her insightful observations on human nature make the novel a compelling read. The novel's exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the importance of personal integrity continues to resonate with readers. The novel's realistic portrayal of social inequalities and the struggles faced by women remains relevant today.

Pride and Prejudice

Jane Austen

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[3][4][5].

Sense and Sensibility

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[2][4][5].

Mansfield Park

Jane Austen

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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].

Emma

Jane Austen

juan perez

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[2][3][4].

Wuthering Heights

Emily Brontë

Published in 1847, 'Wuthering Heights' is a novel that tells the story of the tumultuous relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and the foundling Heathcliff, whom her father brings home to Wuthering Heights. The narrative, framed by the visitor Lockwood and the housekeeper Nelly Dean, explores themes of love, revenge, and the cyclical nature of life. Heathcliff's bitter vengeance against those who wronged him drives the plot, which spans generations and delves into the dark, passionate, and often destructive aspects of human nature. The novel is renowned for its dramatic and poetic presentation, its unique structure, and its vivid depiction of the Yorkshire moors as a reflection of the characters' inner lives.

Jane Eyre

Edmund Morrison Wimperis

Edmund H. Garrett

Jant van der Weg-Laverman

Charlotte Brontë

The novel follows Jane Eyre from her childhood at Gateshead Hall, where she is mistreated by her aunt and cousins, to her education at Lowood School, and later her employment as a governess at Thornfield Hall. There, she falls in love with her enigmatic employer, Edward Fairfax Rochester, but discovers a dark secret about his past that forces her to make a difficult choice. The novel explores themes of love, independence, and social justice, and is known for its realistic portrayal of the inner life of a woman during the Victorian era.

What Matters in Jane Austen?

Twenty Crucial Puzzles Solved

John Mullan

In *What Matters in Jane Austen?*, John Mullan delves into the nuances of Austen's fiction, examining details such as character names, incomes, and narrative techniques to reveal her technical virtuosity and innovative storytelling. The book offers a deep dive into Austen's world, using historical context and literary analysis to illuminate her works.

Persuasion

Jane Austen

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[2][4][5].