Jane Austen's Novel, Persuasion

Jane Austen was an English writer who first gave the novel its distinctly modern character through her treatment of ordinary people in everyday life, and her works continue to intrigue and inspire a new generation of readers and writers alike. In this course, we read and discuss Persuasion, widely regarded as her most moving story of a second chance at love. In addition, we receive handouts that include portions of three of her other novels—Sense and Sensibility, Emma, and Pride and Prejudice—to gain an understanding of the themes and timeless motifs present in her work. We also explore other relevant and biographical texts to uncover the full depth of Austen's narrative range and integrate insights from her fascinating life and historical era. Suggested book: The Annotated Persuasion.