Anchor published a fantastic annotated edition of Persuasion that I often re-read. It includes historical contexts, maps, illustrations, character notes, etc.
“Persuasion” is my favourite Jane Austen novel and I’m really looking forward to reading it with you all. I watched the BBC adaptation over the holiday break as part of an Austen binge & I’m also reading Lucy Worsley’s ‘Jane Austen at Home.’
Although it covers an earlier period than “Anna Karenina”, it is the same timeframe as “War and Peace” (if I can bring Simon’s brilliant slow read in here briefly), and highlights how Britain was at war for almost the whole of Jane’s life, with “Persuasion” being set just after the Napoleonic Wars had ended.
I’m finding it’s adding so many additional layers to be reading all of these novels side by side, especially at this time in our own history. I’m going to have to create a reading timetable to keep track and on track though (and thank for “Mrs Dalloway” in a day on 18th June, Henry! Another of my all time favourite books). 😄
Wonderful Jaimie! Yes – it’s funny to think of Austen responding to the Napoleonic wars at one end of Europe and Tolstoy at the other . . . That’s wonderful you’re reading @Lucy Worsley’s book – please do share insights as we read!
I will have to check out the BBC adaptation. I'm currently watching the BBC's Sense and Sensibility (2008 I think) and what a delight it is. I have no idea how I've missed it.
What a timely pick for me! I admit to having never read Austen—perhaps some strange perversion to how popular she is. Will be wonderful I’m sure to discover another great writer. Tolstoy and Austen—this is going to be a reading year to remember.
My favorite Austen, even though (or because) it’s one of the saddest of her works, though not all sad :) Anne Elliot’s ability to restrain herself around her some of her more infuriating family members and then make her own way is one of the most satisfying things I’ve read.
My great aunt loved Austen and I have all of her books (most were ex-library copies) so I will be reading her edition. She also used to cut out related articles from magazines and newspapers and tuck them between the pages so I am hoping for some treats!
That’s great news Sharon! All you need is a copy of Persuasion! On Jan 31st I’ll send another message and we’ll start reading. Great to have you on board!
Good morning or afternoon. I have a question that I hope someone can answer for me. Do literature students in the UK and Europe have to read about the patriarchy and colonialist agendas of Austen, Bronte, and Shakespeare? Or is that requirement particularly American? I understand historical context matters, but is the critical lens as small (and dull)?
Hi Bill - UK students do definitely discuss the historical, societal and political context of classics - but hopefully in ways that support an appreciation of the text, its artistry and insights.
Anchor published a fantastic annotated edition of Persuasion that I often re-read. It includes historical contexts, maps, illustrations, character notes, etc.
Looking forward to the re-read!
That sounds like a wonderful edition!
“Persuasion” is my favourite Jane Austen novel and I’m really looking forward to reading it with you all. I watched the BBC adaptation over the holiday break as part of an Austen binge & I’m also reading Lucy Worsley’s ‘Jane Austen at Home.’
Although it covers an earlier period than “Anna Karenina”, it is the same timeframe as “War and Peace” (if I can bring Simon’s brilliant slow read in here briefly), and highlights how Britain was at war for almost the whole of Jane’s life, with “Persuasion” being set just after the Napoleonic Wars had ended.
I’m finding it’s adding so many additional layers to be reading all of these novels side by side, especially at this time in our own history. I’m going to have to create a reading timetable to keep track and on track though (and thank for “Mrs Dalloway” in a day on 18th June, Henry! Another of my all time favourite books). 😄
Wonderful Jaimie! Yes – it’s funny to think of Austen responding to the Napoleonic wars at one end of Europe and Tolstoy at the other . . . That’s wonderful you’re reading @Lucy Worsley’s book – please do share insights as we read!
I will have to check out the BBC adaptation. I'm currently watching the BBC's Sense and Sensibility (2008 I think) and what a delight it is. I have no idea how I've missed it.
Oh, Yay. I love Persuasion. Perhaps my favorite Austen.
Wonderful!
What a timely pick for me! I admit to having never read Austen—perhaps some strange perversion to how popular she is. Will be wonderful I’m sure to discover another great writer. Tolstoy and Austen—this is going to be a reading year to remember.
I know that feeling – but I can promise you she’s worth reading!
My favorite Austen, even though (or because) it’s one of the saddest of her works, though not all sad :) Anne Elliot’s ability to restrain herself around her some of her more infuriating family members and then make her own way is one of the most satisfying things I’ve read.
Wonderful! I completely agree Khalid - it will be really fun to discuss as a group.
I’m in. I think I might even shout myself some pretty new editions to celebrate 250 years 🎉
My great aunt loved Austen and I have all of her books (most were ex-library copies) so I will be reading her edition. She also used to cut out related articles from magazines and newspapers and tuck them between the pages so I am hoping for some treats!
That sounds amazing . . . Please do share pictures of any chance discoveries as we read!
Will do!
One of my favorite novels of all time. It's just beautiful. Thanks for reading it with us, Henry.
Fantastic! Thanks Bill!
I simply believe I have never came around reading Persuasion? So finally it’s going to happen.
Great news!
What a lovely idea, I’d like to take part. What do I do next?
That’s great news Sharon! All you need is a copy of Persuasion! On Jan 31st I’ll send another message and we’ll start reading. Great to have you on board!
Thank you Henry, looking forward to it
Good morning or afternoon. I have a question that I hope someone can answer for me. Do literature students in the UK and Europe have to read about the patriarchy and colonialist agendas of Austen, Bronte, and Shakespeare? Or is that requirement particularly American? I understand historical context matters, but is the critical lens as small (and dull)?
Hi Bill - UK students do definitely discuss the historical, societal and political context of classics - but hopefully in ways that support an appreciation of the text, its artistry and insights.