Austen Chat

Ending a Regency-era marriage was difficult and daunting! In this episode, attorney James Nagle helps us navigate the murky legal waters of dissolving marital ties, Regency-Style, in a variety of ways. We're talking scandal. We're talking Maria Rushworth running away with Henry Crawford. We're talking wives being sold at auction to the highest bidder. What?! Yes. Crazy, but true. Podcast Host:  Breckyn WoodTranscript and show notes:  https://jasna.org/austen/podcast/ep5Visit our website:  www.jasna.orgFollow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterEmail: podcast@jasna.org

How "happy" are the endings of Jane Austen’s novels? In this episode we chat with Professor Inger Brodey about Austen’s endings: what she includes, what she leaves out, her unique mix of romance and satire, and her technique of “zooming out” that often leaves readers wanting more. Drawing from her forthcoming book, Jane Austen and the Price of Happiness, Inger also shares her thoughts on why Austen ended her novels as she did, her use of various forms of happiness, and how her endings differ from those of other authors she read.Podcast Host:  Breckyn WoodTranscript and show notes:  https://jasna.org/austen/podcast/ep4You can learn more about Inger Brodey on her website:  https://ingerbrodey.comVisit our website:  www.jasna.orgFollow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterEmail: podcast@jasna.org

What did Jane Austen wear? Was she a stylish dresser? A dowdy spinster? In this episode, noted fashion and textile historian Hilary Davidson sets the record straight, revealing that Austen was much more fashion conscious and on-trend than many suppose. Join us as we discuss what would have been in Austen’s personal wardrobe, from headwear and gowns to everything in between, and Davidson shares fascinating insights gained while researching her new book, Jane Austen’s Wardrobe.Podcast Host:  Breckyn WoodTranscript and show notes:  https://jasna.org/austen/podcast/ep3You can learn more about Hilary Davidson on her website at http://www.hilarydavidson.net and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @FourRedShoes. She also has a Twitter account for her books @AustenDress.Visit our website:  www.jasna.orgFollow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterEmail: podcast@jasna.org

Though never preachy, Austen’s novels have a rich moral depth that was heavily influenced by her faith. In this episode, we chat with Brenda Cox, author of Fashionable Goodness: Christianity in Jane Austen’s England. Brenda spent many years and several trips to England researching everything from Austen’s private daily devotions to the role churches played in the many social reforms of her time. We discuss all this, plus:Some crucial words in Austen’s novels that hold deeper religious meaning than you might think,A crafty countess who used a legal loophole to spread her Methodist faith, andA helpful way to finally remember the difference between a parson, a rector, a vicar, and a curate. (We don’t get into archdeacons, sorry!) Podcast Host:  Breckyn WoodTranscript and show notes: https://jasna.org/austen/podcast/episode2Visit our website:  www.jasna.orgFollow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TwitterEmail: podcast@jasna.org

Lizzie Dunford, director of Jane Austen's House, shares fascinating insights about the timeless author and her cherished cottage. She explores how Chawton Cottage fueled Austen's creativity and reveals the house's vital role in preserving her legacy. Lizzie discusses innovative conservation techniques for historical artifacts and highlights the emotional connections visitors have with Austen's home. The conversation also covers the successful virtual tours created during the pandemic, bringing Austen's world to life for global fans.

Dive into the intriguing world of Jane Austen! Discover insights into her life and works, tailored for both devoted fans and curious newcomers. Engage in lively discussions with scholars as they unravel Austen's lasting legacy. Get ready for a journey through literature that promises both fun and knowledge!