Intelligence Squared

The Sunday Debate: Austen vs Brontë

Jan 2, 2022
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.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
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.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app