Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Reading Jane Austen
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| S05E09 Persuasion, Chapter 21 and the cancelled Chapter 22 | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:59:48 | |
In this much-delayed episode (recorded months ago, but stuck in editing limbo), we look at Chapter 21, and the original version of Chapter 22, which Jane Austen rewrote before publication to become the Chapters 22 and 23 we now have. This cancelled chapter is available in many modern editions of the book. We talk about Mrs Smith’s infodump about Mr Elliot, her change in tone, her patronising attitude towards Nurse Rooke, how in the cancelled chapter Anne was more of an observer (compared to the much better final version where she has regained her voice), and the fact that the cancelled chapter is unpolished, and even if Jane Austen had retained that, it would still have been improved before publication. The character we discuss is Mr Elliot. In the historical section, Michael talks about the engagements, and for popular culture Harriet reflects on the various film adaptations of Persuasion, considering some of the characters, as well as how each adaptation deals with three key scenes (presenting the backstory, Louisa’s fall, and the scene at the White Hart Inn). Things we mention: General discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S05E08 Persuasion, Chapters 19 to 20 | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:56:13 | |
In this episode, we talk about private communications in public spaces, Wentworth’s possible feelings in the encounter at Mollands and in the Assembly Room, the question of whether Lady Russell was legitimately trying to identify a set of curtains, and Anne’s feelings towards Mr Elliot. The character we discuss is Elizabeth Elliot. In the historical section, Michael talks about the Bath Assembly Rooms, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2023 independent film Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
Creative commons music used:
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| Persuasion season starting in November | 06 Oct 2024 | 00:00:34 | |
Just a quick update to let you know that our Persuasion season will be starting in November. We've recorded the first few episodes, but Harriet has been too busy at work to finish editing them. She's going to be away for a few weeks, but will start releasing the episodes on her return in November. We've added the new season to the website menu, with a provisional episode listing. | |||
| S04E11 Emma, Chapters 51 to 55 | 10 Jun 2024 | 00:59:56 | |
In this episode, we finish up Emma with chapters 51 to 55. We talk about the decision for Mr Knightley to move to Hartfield, the resolution of Harriet’s story, and the final scenes between Mr and Mrs Elton. We also reflect on the insights we have gained through this close reading of Emma, and how it has changed our views of the novel. The character we discuss is Jane Fairfax. In the historical section, Ellen briefly revisits her earlier comments about vicars, and then talks about magistrates. For popular culture Harriet talks about four books that retell some or all of the story through the point of view of a different character. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S04E10 Emma, Chapters 46 to 50 | 07 Apr 2024 | 00:59:31 | |
In this episode, we are joined by Harriet’s partner, Michael, and read chapters 46 to 50 of Emma. We talk about Emma’s emotional roller coaster, reactions to the Frank-Jane revelation, the proposal scene and Emma’s commitment to her father. The character we discuss is Frank Churchill, and then Michael talks about the changing lifestyle of Regency gentleman. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about three books that are modernised versions of Emma. Things we mention: Character discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
Creative commons music used:
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| S04E09 Emma, Chapters 42 to 45 | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:58:54 | |
In this episode, we read chapters 42 to 45 of Emma. We talk about the dropping of clues about Jane and Frank, Donwell Abbey and Mr Knightley’s arrangements for the strawberry picking, how nobody is enjoying themselves at Box Hill, and the pressures on Jane. The character we discuss is Emma, and in the historical section Ellen talks about watering places. In the popular culture section, Harriet reflects back on the screen adaptations of Emma, considering her favourite moments from each version, and then how they dealt with some of the major characters. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S04E08 Emma, Chapters 37 to 41 | 28 Dec 2023 | 00:59:40 | |
In this episode, we read chapters 37 to 41 of Emma. We talk about the parallel narratives, the ball at the Crown, Emma’s awareness of Mr Knightley, the section from Mr Knightley’s point of view and the tension between Jane and Frank. The character we discuss is Mr Knightley, and in the historical section Ellen talks about poverty and the labouring classes. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 2017 YouTube series The Emma Agenda. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
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| S04E07 Emma, Chapters 32 to 36 | 17 Nov 2023 | 00:59:59 | |
In this episode, we read chapters 32 to 36 of Emma. We talk about the civil society of Highbury, why Jane puts up with Mrs Elton, and Emma’s dinner party. The character we discuss is Mrs Elton, and Ellen talks about governesses. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 2013 YouTube series Emma Approved . Things we mention: Character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S04E06 Emma, Chapters 27 to 31 | 10 Sep 2023 | 00:59:28 | |
The character we discuss is Harriet Smith, and Ellen talks about illegitimacy. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 1995 modernisation Clueless. Things we mention: General discussion:
Character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S04E05 Emma, Chapters 22 to 26 | 10 Jul 2023 | 00:59:50 | |
In this episode, we read chapters 22 to 26 of Emma. We talk about Frank’s arrival, the dinner at the Coles, and the way so much looks different in a second reading, The characters we discuss are Mr and Mrs Weston, including a consideration of what we know of Mrs Weston’s pregnancy. Ellen talks about social customs, including calling and dinner parties. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 2020 Working Title Films adaptation of Emma. Things we mention: General discussion:
Character discussion:
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| S04E04 Emma, Chapters 16 to 21 | 25 May 2023 | 00:59:33 | |
In this episode, we are joined by Harriet’s partner, Michael, and read chapters 16 to 21 of Emma. We talk about the mystery plots, Emma’s fantasies, Emma and Mr Knightley’s interactions, and Harriet’s encounter with Mr Martin (which had us revisiting the map of Highbury). The character we discuss is Miss Bates, and then Michael talks about army widows and orphans. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 2009 BBC adaptation of Emma. Things we mention: General discussion:
Character discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S04E03 Emma, Chapters 11 to 15 | 21 Apr 2023 | 00:59:57 | |
In this episode, we read chapters 11 to 15 of Emma. We talk about the introduction of John and Isabella Knightley, how Emma really doesn’t understand the social world, the clash between Isabella and Mr Woodhouse about health – and how Emma and Mr Knightley are running interference – and the way in which the Frank/Jane plot is beginning to be introduced before the Harriet/Mr Elton plot is resolved. The character we discuss is Mr Elton, and then Ellen talks about apothecaries. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 1996 ITV telemovie adaptation of Emma. Things we mention: General discussion: Character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
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| S05E07 Persuasion, Chapters 16 to 18 | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:59:47 | |
In this episode, we talk about the upward and downward social interactions taking place, what the implications are behind the Dalrymples being Irish aristocracy, the introductions of Mrs Smith and Nurse Rooke, the comedy of Mary’s letter and Admiral Croft’s meeting with Anne, and the fact that in the book’s timeline it is only a month before Napoleon Bonaparte will escape from Elba. The characters we discuss are Admiral and Mrs Croft. In the historical section, Ellen talks about nurses, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2020 television movie Modern Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion:
Character discussion:
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| S04E02 Emma, Chapters 6 to 10 | 19 Mar 2023 | 00:59:58 | |
In this episode, we read chapters 6 to 10 of Emma. We talk about the hints Jane Austen gives us about Emma’s blunders, Emma’s manipulation of Harriet after Mr Martin’s proposal, the argument between Emma and Mr Knightley, Harriet’s riddle book, Emma’s and Mr Elton’s respective views of his place in the social hierarchy, and Emma’s lack of need to get married. (There was also a lengthy discussion of ‘Kitty, a fair but frozen maid’, which we ended up editing out, and just pointing to Lona Manning’s article and blog posts on the subject.) We discuss the Martin family (specifically, Mr Martin and his mother), and in the historical section Ellen talks about vicars and parish business. Harriet talks about the 1996 Miramax film adaptation of Emma. | |||
| S04E01 Emma, Chapters 1 to 5 | 20 Feb 2023 | 00:59:57 | |
In this episode, we read the first five chapters of Emma. We give a brief publishing history, and talk about how much we learn about the occupants of Highbury, the introduction of the relationship between Emma and Mr Knightley, Emma’s manipulation of Harriet, and Emma’s personality (and how our views of her are changing on this readthrough). The character we discuss is Mr Woodhouse, and in the historical section Ellen talks about boarding schools. Harriet gives an overview of all of the popular culture versions of Emma, and explains that due to the number of adaptations there have been, she will talk about one version each episode, rather than trying to cover all of them. For this episode, she talks about the 1972 BBC adaptation. For a list of references, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S03E11 Mansfield Park: Episode 11, Chapters 46-48 | 06 Nov 2022 | 00:59:50 | |
In this episode, we finish up reading Mansfield Park, with Chapters 46 to 48. We talk about contrasts within the book, the attitude to Maria and Henry, Edmund and Fanny’s views of Mary, Sir Thomas’s reflections in the final chapter, the wrapping up of the other characters and how we are told about Edmund falling in love with Fanny. We discuss Fanny Price, then Ellen talks about principle and education, and Harriet looks at how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| Bonus mini-episode - 'Rational Creatures' co-creators | 02 Oct 2022 | 00:13:40 | |
In this bonus mini-episode, Harriet has a discussion with three of the co-creators of webseries Rational Creatures. This series, based on Persuasion, started in 2019, but then had to go on a long and unexpected hiatus due to the global pandemic. Just as Jane Austen used her books to shed light on social issues of her time, RATIONAL CREATURES reflects the world around us now by including complex female characters, happy queer stories, mental and chronic illness, and a bisexual Latina lead.(https://rationalseries.wixsite.com/site/about) The series paused after Episode 5, on 15 October 2019, and resumed on 20 September 2022. Shortly before this, Harriet was invited to have a conversation with three of the co-creators: Jessamyn Leigh, Anya Steiner and Hazel Jeffs. You can check out Rational Creatures at: | |||
| S03E10 Mansfield Park: Episode 10, Chapters 40-45 | 30 Sep 2022 | 00:59:48 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 40 to 45 of Mansfield Park. We talk about the plot of a girl brought up in privileged circumstances returning to her family, Mary’s letters and how Fanny responds to them, the success of Henry’s visit, Edmund’s letter to Fanny, and Tom’s illness. We discuss the Price family (with a slight digression into the idea of disposition and principle), then Ellen talks about servants and Harriet looks at how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
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| S03E09 Mansfield Park: Episode 9, Chapters 35-39 | 04 Sep 2022 | 00:57:12 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 35 to 39 of Mansfield Park. We talk about how Edmund and Mary dismiss Fanny’s concerns about Henry, Sir Thomas’s decision to send Fanny back to Portsmouth, Fanny and William’s journey, the comedy of the arrival in Portsmouth, Fanny’s reaction to the house, and the very realistic and grounded nature of the Portsmouth scenes . We discuss Edmund Bertram, then Harriet’s partner Michael talks about the Marines. Harriet looks at how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters, and then Ellen talks about a later nineteenth century novel influenced by Mansfield Park. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, and a map of Mansfield Park locations, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S03E08 Mansfield Park: Episode 8, Chapters 31-34 | 07 Aug 2022 | 00:59:31 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 31 to 34 of Mansfield Park. We talk about Fanny's initial failure to realise she has received a true proposal, the amount of pressure placed on her to accept, the picture everyone has of little, modest Fanny, and the difference between Sir Thomas and Fanny's views of marriage. We discuss Henry Crawford, then Ellen talks about ordination, and Harriet looks at how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters, particularly the scene between Fanny and Sir Thomas. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
Comment on previous episode
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| S03E07 Mansfield Park: Episode 7, Chapters 26-30 | 24 May 2022 | 00:59:58 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 26 to 30 of Mansfield Park. We talk about Fanny’s preparations for the ball, the amber cross, her emotion reactions after Edmund gives her the chain, her post-ball meeting with Mary, and the scene where Henry tells Mary he plans to marry Fanny. We discuss Lady Bertram, then Ellen talks about what is meant by being ‘out’, and Harriet follows this with some information about balls and dancing. Harriet also talks about how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S03E06 Mansfield Park: Episode 6, Chapters 22-25 | 18 Apr 2022 | 00:59:23 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 22 to 25 of Mansfield Park. We talk about the friendship between Fanny and Mary, the tension between Mary and Edmund, Henry’s plan to make Fanny fall in love with him (and Mary’s reaction), William’s view of Fanny, the tour de force of Chapter 25 (the Speculation chapter), and Ellen’s articulation of why she cares about what happens to Fanny. We discuss Dr and Mrs Grant, then Harriet’s partner Michael talks about the navy, with a focus on the process of passing from midshipman to lieutenant. Harriet talks about how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
For a list of other references and music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S03E05 Mansfield Park: Episode 5, Chapters 17-21 | 22 Mar 2022 | 00:59:59 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 17 to 21 of Mansfield Park. We talk about Fanny’s moral trajectory during the theatricals, Mary’s casual acceptance of Henry’s behaviour with Maria, the cliffhanger ending of Volume 1 in the first edition, and Fanny’s question to Sir Thomas about the slave trade (with Harriet’s theory as to why she asked it). We talk about Sir Thomas, first considering how he is presented in the text, and then how we reconcile this with the fact that his estate in Antigua is worked by enslaved people. Ellen looks at the clergy, including the presentation of livings, pluralism and absenteeism, and the career path for the clergy. Harriet talks about the popular culture versions. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
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| S05E06 Persuasion, Chapters 13 to 15 | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:59:40 | |
In this episode, we talk about these transitional chapters between the events at Lyme and the move to Bath. We consider the position of the old nurse in the Musgrove household, how Anne is feeling a bit sorry for herself, the delightful scenes with the Crofts and with Charles and Mary, how Mr Elliot is described as ‘underhung’, and the way Anne and Mr Elliot get on well with each other. The characters we discuss are Mr and Mrs Musgrove. In the historical section, Ellen talks about Bath, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2019 YouTube series Rational Creatures. Things we mention: General discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
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| S03E04 Mansfield Park: Episode 4, Chapters 12-16 | 27 Feb 2022 | 00:59:58 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 12 to 16 of Mansfield Park. We talk about why Fanny refuses to act, why Edmund agrees to join in, the sheer amount of comedy in the scenes of the theatricals, and the Cinderella aspect of the plot. We talk about Tom Bertram, and then Ellen looks at theatre in the Regency period, and why Fanny and Edmund disapprove of the the theatricals. Harriet talks about the popular culture versions, including some modernisations and a variation that she hasn’t looked at before. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Historical discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
For a list of music used, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S03E03 Mansfield Park: Episode 3, Chapters 8-11 | 25 Jan 2022 | 00:59:58 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 8 to 11 of Mansfield Park. We revisit the issue of how Jane Austen opposes Fanny and Mary, and look at the flirting techniques of Mary and Henry, Fanny’s expectations of Edmund, whether there is symbolism in the scene at the ha-ha, and Mary’s criticism of Dr Grant. The characters we talk about are Maria and Julia, and then Ellen looks at the idea of improvement of estates – and what a ha-ha is. Harriet’s discussion of the popular culture versions is a bit shorter than usual, owing to the fact that two of the adaptations completely omit the Sotherton section. | |||
| S03E02 Mansfield Park: Episode 2, Chapters 4-7 | 31 Dec 2021 | 00:59:53 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 4 to 7 of Mansfield Park. We talk about the character-revealing scenes, how the presentation of Fanny may make some readers dislike her, why Maria became engaged to Mr Rushworth, and Henry Crawford’s behaviour. We discuss the character of Mary Crawford – who is perhaps almost as divisive as Fanny Price – and then Ellen talks about baronets, Members of Parliament, and the idea of ‘interest’. Harriet considers how the three adaptations, and two of the modernisations, present these chapters. Things we mention: General and character discussion:
Popular culture discussion:
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| S03E01.5 Mansfield Park, Extras from episode 1 | 05 Dec 2021 | 00:20:06 | |
This is a bit of an in-between episode. About two months ago, when we were getting ready to record Episode 2, Ellen came down with a bad virus – not COVID, but recovery has been a slow process. We’re just about to start recording again, but it means there’s going to be more of a gap before Episode 2, and probably between the other episodes as well, since we don’t have any edited and ready to go in advance. To fill in the space before Episode 2, we’ve put together some of the bits we had to edit out of Episode 1. It’s a bit disjointed, but we hope you enjoy it. Creative commons music used:
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| S03E01 Mansfield Park, Chapters 1 to 3 | 23 Nov 2021 | 01:04:52 | |
In this episode, we read the first three chapters of Mansfield Park. We give a brief publishing history, and talk about how the opening chapters really prepare the way for the rest of the book, with all of the characters and relationships being set up, how the three Miss Wards come from a not dissimilar background from Pride and Prejudice’s Miss Gardiners (Mrs Bennet and Mrs Phillips), and how the novel’s themes of education and principle are introduced. The character we talk about is Mrs Norris. In a longer than usual historical segment, Ellen talks about the historical background to Sir Thomas’s estate in Antigua, and the extent to which all members of the gentry were complicit in slavery. We follow this up with a conversation on how discussions of slavery are now part of the discourse on Mansfield Park. Harriet identifies four different approaches:
We would like to thank Damianne Scott, who runs the Facebook page Black Girl Loves Jane, for reviewing the historical segment for us, and providing feedback. To finish the episode, Harriet gives an overview of various popular culture versions of Mansfield Park. For a list of references and other links, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S02E10 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 47 to 50 | 28 Jun 2021 | 00:59:53 | |
In this episode, we read the final chapters of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about Elinor being the ‘moral spokesperson’ for the book, why Marianne marries Colonel Brandon, how Edward is less dashing than both Willoughby and Brandon, the social and financial gap between Elinor and Marianne after their marriages, and Lucy’s marriage to Robert. We also revisit the sense vs sensibility concept, and how the novel is both flawed and wonderful. We discuss the character of Elinor, then Ellen talks about art, music and writing, and Harriet takes a final look at the popular culture versions. Things we mention: References:
Eighteenth- and nineteenth-century women writers:
Read more: Adaptations of the book, Modernisations of the book, Creative Commons music used. | |||
| S02E09 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 42 to 46 | 02 Jun 2021 | 00:59:04 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 42 to 46 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about how Marianne’s illness is presented (including the un-dramatic way in which she gets sick, and the lack of emotional response), what Colonel Brandon could be doing all day, how Mrs Dashwood is pushing Colonel Brandon and Marianne together, and Jane Austen’s use of grotesques. We discuss Willoughby (with a digression onto Miss Grey), and Ellen talks about medical practitioners in the early nineteenth century. Harriet reviews how the popular culture versions deal with some of the key events in these chapters: how Marianne gets sick, Willoughby’s visit, and the development of a relationship between Marianne and Colonel Brandon. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
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| S02E08 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 37 to 41 | 11 May 2021 | 00:59:56 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 37 to 41 of Sense and Sensibility (which was where Volume 3 started in the original publication). We talk about how the news of Edward and Lucy is spread, the picture we get of Lucy and Anne’s relationship, the resurgence of the ‘cautionary tale’, and how this is the second time Colonel Brandon asks Elinor to deliver a message for him. We discuss the character of Edward, including our disagreement with Helena Kelly’s view in Jane Austen: the Secret Radical (and see also our extended argument against her claim that there is symbolic meaning behind Edward cutting up a scissors sheath). Ellen talks about the clergy in Jane Austen’s day, and Harriet reviews the popular culture versions, particularly looking at how the adaptations treat the scene between Edward and Elinor, and what the modernisations do with the Edward-Lucy-Elinor plot. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
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| S02E07 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 32 to 36 | 17 Apr 2021 | 00:55:47 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 32 to 36 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about how this is a transitional section, and yet contains some of the funniest scenes in the book. We consider the different styles of the intertwined plots (the ‘Marianne plot’, the ‘Elinor plot’ and the ‘moral story’), talk about the comic scenes with Robert Ferrars and with John Dashwood, and the emotional – but also funny – scene with Edward. We also talk about primogeniture and family obligations. We discuss Mrs Dashwood, and Ellen talks about the London locations in the book (see also this map Harriet has put together). Harriet reviews how the popular culture versions deal with these chapters. Map of locations: Google map of the places mentioned in Sense and Sensibility, including approximate locations of the houses. Zoom in to see the London locations. Things we mention: References:
Film and television adaptations of the book:
Modernisations of the book:
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| S02E06 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 26 to 31 | 23 Mar 2021 | 00:59:01 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 26 to 31 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about how unsatisfying Ellen found several of these chapters, the role of gossip, the similarity between Elinor’s and Marianne’s situations, the importance of reputation, and whether the turnaround in our perception of Mrs Jennings was planned for by Jane Austen. We discuss the character of Marianne, then Harriet’s partner, Michael, talks about duelling in Regency England. Harriet talks about how the adaptations present these sections, and how the modernisations update the Willoughby-Colonel Brandon-Marianne stories. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
Modernisations of the book:
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| S05E05 Persuasion, Chapters 11 and 12 | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:59:52 | |
In this episode, we talk about Lyme, the connection between Anne and Captain Benwick, whether these chapters make us wonder if Anne will end up with someone other than Captain Wentworth, and Louisa’s fall from the steps. The characters we discuss are Captains Harville and Benwick. In the historical section, Ellen talks about romantic poetry, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2022 Netflix film adaptation of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion:
For a list of references in the Historical and Popular culture sections, see this episode on our website. | |||
| S02E05 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 21 to 25 | 01 Mar 2021 | 00:59:42 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 21to 25 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about Jane Austen’s use of compound sentences, Lady Middleton’s concern with gentility, the verbal fencing match between Elinor and Lucy, Elinor’s emotions, and Mrs Jennings’ invitation to Elinor and Marianne. We discuss Lucy and Anne Steele, and then Ellen talks about childhood in the time of Jane Austen. Harriet talks about adaptations, and two of the modernisations. At the end of the episode, we respond to some listener feedback about the book Jane Austen, the Secret Radical. As an extension of this, you can read our analysis of the timeline around the birth of Eliza Williams. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
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| S02E04 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 16 to 20 | 08 Feb 2021 | 00:59:51 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 16 to 20 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about how Marianne indulges her feelings, whether Jane Austen knew what Marianne and Willoughby talked about before he left, the clearer picture we get of Edward in these chapters, and Edward’s invisible servant. The characters we discuss are Mr and Mrs Palmer. Ellen talks about sensibility and romanticism, which leads into a discussion of Marianne and Elinor’s different views of feelings and behaviour. Harriet talks about adaptations, including the Bollywood modernisation, Kandukondain Kandukondain, which she has finally watched. Things we mention: References:
Artworks:
Adaptations of the book:
Modernisations of the book:
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| S02E03 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 12 to 15 | 25 Jan 2021 | 00:52:24 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 12 to 15 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about how Margaret's contribution to the plot, how Elinor and Marianne's debate on sense vs sensibility moves from the theoretical to the practical, the linking of propriety with morality, how the mystery subplot is quite unusual in Jane Austen, and the nasty tone of some of Willoughby's jokes about Colonel Brandon. We discuss the character of Colonel Brandon, then Harriet’s partner Michael talks about the military, with a focus on service in the East Indies. Harriet talks about how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters, and the presentation of Colonel Brandon. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
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Variations on the book:
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| S02E02 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 6 to 11 | 11 Jan 2021 | 00:59:31 | |
In this episode, we read Chapters 6 to 11 of Sense and Sensibility. We talk about how Barton Cottage and its location are described in some detail, consider how the bedrooms are shared out, the closeness between the two sisters in spite of their differences, the theme of sense vs sensibility, and the way Willoughby and Marianne criticise Colonel Brandon. We discuss the character of Mrs Jennings, then Ellen talks about how members of the gentry spent their time, and Harriet talks about how adaptations and modernisations treat these chapters (including a discussion about how the Dashwoods have adapted to having less money). Harriet also gives an overview of the other Jane Austen podcasts that are out there. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
Modernisations of the book:
Other Jane Austen podcasts:
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| S02E01 Sense and Sensibility, Chapters 1 to 5 | 27 Dec 2020 | 00:56:37 | |
In this episode, we read the first five chapters of Sense and Sensibility. We give a brief publishing history, and talk about the themes of sense and sensibility, the lack of dialogue in the first chapter, how much money the Dashwoods have, the emphasis on caring about the arts, how very young the girls are, and the lack of presentation of Edward. We discuss the characters of John and Fanny Dashwood, then Ellen talks about wills and marriage settlements, and Harriet gives an overview of the popular culture adaptations, modernisations, continuations and variations on the book. Things we mention: References:
Adaptations of the book:
Modernisations of the book:
Variations on the book:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 58 to 61 | 17 Jun 2020 | 00:58:32 | |
In this episode, we read the final chapters of Pride and Prejudice. We talk about the dialogue in the final proposal scene, and more generally about proposals in Jane Austen; Mr Bennet’s response to the news, and also Mrs Bennet’s; what the final chapter, and James Austen-Leigh’s Memoir, tells us about what happens next to the characters; the passing reference to the “restoration of peace”; and how the closing sentence is far less memorable than the opening sentence. We discuss the character of Mr Bennet, then Ellen talks about some social changes that happened after the book finished , and Harriet looks at how the adaptations finish – with the surprising discovery that a lot of them give the last word to Mr or Mrs Bennet. Things we mention: Books:
Movies and television:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 53 to 57 | 01 Jun 2020 | 00:52:02 | |
In this episode, we talk about how Jane Austen keeps up the suspense so close to the end of the book, the fact that Kitty has forgotten Mr Darcy, Elizabeth’s embarrassment at her mother, Bingley and Mr Bennet shooting together, the physical descriptions of Longbourne, the question of how Lady Catherine got her news and the meeting between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth. We discuss the character of Jane, then Ellen talks about what makes someone a gentleman, or gentlemanlike, and Harriet looks at how the adaptations deal with events such as Lady Catherine’s visit. Things we mention: Books:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 47 to 52 | 16 May 2020 | 00:59:58 | |
In this episode, we talk about the steps taken to find Lydia and Wickham, how much Darcy paid to get them married, the moral and social approach towards what Lydia has done, why Mrs Bennet thinks there will be a duel, the letter from Mr Collins, and Elizabeth’s changing feelings towards Darcy. We discuss the character of George Wickham. Ellen talks about marriage settlements and marriage laws, and Harriet looks at how some modernisations of the book adapt the Lydia plot. We also revisit the subject of enclosures, in response to some feedback, and talk about social inequality and how it’s not really addressed in Jane Austen’s work. Things we mention: Books:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 42 to 46 | 28 Apr 2020 | 00:59:40 | |
In this episode, we talk about the way Darcy is reintroduced into the narrative, Jane Austen’s thoughts on architecture and landscaping, the possible connection between Pemberley and Chatsworth and how Georgiana Darcy is presented in a very different manner from Anne de Burgh. We discuss Elizabeth Bennet, perhaps Jane Austen’s most popular heroine. Ellen talks about the landed gentry, and Harriet looks at how the film and television adaptations treat the visit to Pemberley – including the scene that is probably the best known in all the adaptations. Things we mention: Books:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 35 to 41 | 14 Apr 2020 | 00:59:03 | |
In this episode, we talk about Darcy’s letter and Elizabeth’s reaction to it, consider what Wickham might have done in his youth, revisit the Collins marriage, discuss Mr Bennet’s abrogation of parental responsibility and look at how Elizabeth is now seeing her family through new eyes. We then look at the character of Lydia. For this episode, we are joined by Michael, who gives us some background information about the militia and the regular army in Jane Austen’s time. Harriet looks at how the film and television adaptations deal with dramatising the letter, and the presentation of Lydia, and Michael adds a couple of points about the military uniforms. Things we mention: Books:
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| S05E04 Persuasion, Chapters 9 and 10 | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:59:59 | |
In this episode, we talk about how how Jane Austen has solved the problem of the infodump, the realism of the scene with little Walter, how she shows the relations within families, and how events on the walk to Winthrop affect Wentworth’s feelings. The characters we discuss are Louisa and Henrietta Musgrove. In the historical section, Ellen talks about curates, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2007 ITV film adaptation of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 27 to 34 | 31 Mar 2020 | 00:59:18 | |
In this episode, we talk about Elizabeth’s feelings towards Wickham and Colonel Fitzwilliam, the married life of the Collinses, why we find Lady Catherine de Burgh more funny than Mr Collins, and what we know about Anne de Burgh. We discuss Mr Darcy in some detail, and then Ellen talks about the the presentation of livings to country rectors. Harriet looks at how the film and television adaptations present Mr Darcy, and also which is her favourite screen version of Lady Catherine de Burgh. Things we mention: Books:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 19 to 26 | 16 Mar 2020 | 00:50:54 | |
In this episode, we talk about the two marriage proposals by Mr Collins, the precise timetabling of the events, and the matter of obedience to one’s parents. We discuss Charlotte Lucas in some detail, and then Ellen talks about the ‘marriage market’. Harriet looks at where the two mini-series versions of Pride and Prejudice have their episode breaks in this section, the fact that in some versions Mr Bennet can see through Wickham, how Charlotte is presented in the 2005 movie, and her favourite song in Bride and Prejudice. Things we mention: Books:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 13 to 18 | 02 Mar 2020 | 00:49:48 | |
In this episode, we talk about the arrivals of Mr Collins and Mr Wickham, and the Netherfield Ball: we consider how Mr Bennet didn’t give the family any warning about Mr Collins’s arrival, the number of letters in the book, the amount of foreshadowing we’ve seen, how Wickham was able to fool Elizabeth, and Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s conversation while dancing. We discuss Mr Collins in some detail, and then Ellen talks about entails. Harriet looks at how Mr Colllins and Mr Wickham have been presented in the various film and television versions of Pride and Prejudice, and also how they deal with the Netherfield Ball. Things we mention: Books:
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| Pride and Prejudice, Chapters 7 to 12 | 17 Feb 2020 | 00:45:56 | |
In this episode, we talk about Jane and Elizabeth's visit to Netherfield: we consider why Jane was invited, Darcy's feelings about Elizabeth, the types of conversations everyone has and what Darcy reads. We discuss Mr Bingley in some detail, including how he and Darcy might have met, and then Ellen talks about accomplishments. Harriet looks at how Mr Bingley has been presented in the various film and television versions of Pride and Prejudice. Things we mention
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