Jane Austen: The Novels

by Nicholas Marsh

Overview

Jane Austen's novels are among the most polished and carefully-crafted works in the English literary heritage. This book takes extracts and examines them in close detail, bringing out the extraordinary richness of irony and implication in Jane Austen's writing. Using the tool of textual analysis, the reader is taught to explore and enjoy the delicate comedy of her narratives, and to inquire into the serious moral purpose that lies behind each of these four novels. This guide does not simplify the study of Jane Austen, but invites the reader to pursue and revel in the ironic subtlety of her methods and thought.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781350317758
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication date:	03/01/1998
Series:	Analysing Texts
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	288
File size:	794 KB

About the Author

NICHOLAS MARSH is the author of the popular How to Begin Studying English Literature, now in its second edition, and the Master Guide, The Wife of Bath's Tale. He teaches English at Francis Holland School, Regent's Park, London.
NICHOLAS MARSH teaches English at Francis Holland School, Regent's Park, London,UK.

Table of Contents

General Editor's Preface
PART 1: ANALYSING JANE AUSTEN'S NOVELS
Language and Texture
Characterisation
Structure in Jane Austen's Novels
Society
The Place of Women
The Theme of Change and the Change of Theme
Irony, and the Author
PART 2: THE CONTEXT AND THE CRITICS
Jane Austen's Life and Work
Jane Austen's Contribution to the Development of the Novel
A Sample of Critical Views
Further Reading
Index.

Editorial Reviews

Closely examining extracts from Austen's novels , , , and , the author provides an introduction to the critical analysis of her work. Chapters examine her use of language, characterization, structure, the theme of change, and irony, as well as her views on society and the place of women. Each chapter includes sections on analytical methods and recommended readings. A concluding section summarizes her life, work, and innovations, and offers a sample of three critical views. Paper edition (unseen), $19.95. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

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