Allied troops entering Paris after the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte "the little bit (two inches wide) of ivory on which I work with so fine a brush, as produces so little effect after so much labour" Letter to Edward Austen, 16 December 1816, The Letters of Jane Austen Today marks the anniversary of the Battle... Continue Reading →
Breaking News: Tornado Tom Lefroy Hits Austenland
"At length the day is come on which I am to flirt my last with Tom Lefroy ... My tears flow as I write at the melancholy idea" Jane Austen Letter to Cassandra Austen, 16 January 1796, The Letters of Jane Austen My Dear Miss Austen,  Our tears flow too dear Jane. A tornado has hit... Continue Reading →
Jane Austen’s Dearest Friendship with Miss Sharp Still Resonates Today
You would have held the memory of your friend Jane too in tender regret I am sure. - But the Providence of God has restored me - & may I be more fit to appear before him when I am summoned, than I sh'd have been now! - Sick or Well, beleive me ever your... Continue Reading →
Apple Blossoms in June? Austen’s Literary Mystery
It was a sweet view -- sweet to the eye and the mind. English verdure, English culture, English comfort, seen under a sun bright, without being oppressive...It might be safely viewed with all its appendages of prosperity and beauty, its rich pastures, spreading flocks, orchard in blossom, and light column of smoke ascending. Emma, Chapter... Continue Reading →