Sunday Star Times 23/3/25
In the more than 200 years since Jane Austen published, people and society haven’t changed all that much (even though I’m writing this on a computer rather than with a quill).
She may be dead, but the patriarchy (sadly) isn’t. Austen lived in a time when it was hard(er) to be a woman; none of her novels bore her name during her lifetime, as it was considered scandalous for a woman to write, let alone earn a living. Let’s be honest: if we were talking about Shakespeare, there’d be no question of continuing relevance. Lydia Bennet is almost ruined by eloping, just as women are slut-shamed today. Lizzy Bennet might be called “mouthy” for daring to have an opinion, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh is recognisable as a micromanager.
The spectre of Napoleon loomed large during Austen’s life (and in her novels), exactly as a couple of male figureheads on the other side of the globe do for us now. Our more connected and mobile world means we are as affected by their decisions as she was by someone just across the channel.
Marriage for financial security, depicted in Austen’s novels, may be making a comeback. In the current climate, with increased economic pressures and uncertainty, it could be argued that you can’t afford to choose a partner without considering their finances. Charlotte Lucas has no affection for Mr Collins when they marry, but marriage is necessary for her survival.
Austen’s novels provide a sense of justice. Bad things happen, but they happen off-page, and everyone gets the ending they deserve (except perhaps Mr. Collins). Lizzy marries someone who appreciates her intelligence; Darcy gains a partner who will tell him off when he needs it. With the way things are going, it’s comforting to know that happy endings exist.
Frances Duncan (she/they), of Te Whanau ā Apauni, writes Austen-inspired fiction, offers Austen-inspired Life Coaching, hosts The Amateur Austenite Podcast and founded the Jane Austen Society of Aotearoa New Zealand. (Obsessive, much?) On Instagram she creates videos of Austen adaptations paired with Taylor Swift lyrics. Her latest novel is Bag a Boyfriend a contemporary Pride and Prejudice set in a reality TV dating show.
The Jane Austen Society of Aotearoa New Zealand, which celebrated its tenth anniversary last year, will host a birthday party at Elixir in Chews Lane this December to celebrate Austen’s 250th birthday.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francesduncandoes
Website: https://francesduncandoes.com
Society Website: https://janeaustensocietynz.wordpress.com
