Jane Austen: Northanger Abbey, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion

About this course

This course examines Northanger Abbey, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion through close analysis of language, narrative technique and social critique. Sessions consider Austen’s engagement with Gothic and sentimental fiction, the connections between money, marriage and social position, and changing relationships between landed wealth and the navy. The course also addresses the novels’ literary and historical contexts, their treatment of fiction and reality, and Austen’s continuing place in popular culture. Teaching combines textual extracts, presentation slides and discussion, with attention to how each novel constructs its characters, themes and perspective.

What you'll learn

• Analyse aspects of Austen’s narrative style and technique across three novels
• Examine how literary, historical and critical contexts inform interpretations of the novels
• Discuss Austen’s treatment of fiction, social class, money, marriage and changing social structures
• Interpret how character perspective and consciousness shape the reading of Persuasion

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to all levels and explicitly welcomes learners without prior knowledge of Jane Austen or literary study. Participation involves close reading of extracts and discussion of interpretations, themes and contexts with the class.

• No prior knowledge is needed to participate
• The course involves discussion alongside close textual analysis

Before you go

• Learners need their own copies of Northanger Abbey, Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion; any edition may be used.
• Northanger Abbey should be read before the first class, with the other novels strongly recommended before their relevant classes.
• A digital handout of key extracts will be provided before the course, with paper copies available in class.