Reading Jane Austen

S05E11 Persuasion, Chapters 23 to 24

In our final episode on Persuasion, we talk about how much more satisfactory this is than the original ending, the purpose of the discussion between Mrs Croft and Mrs Musgrove, the conversation between Anne and Captain Harville, Wentworth’s letter, his feeling that he had a moral obligation to marry Louisa and the wrap-up of the story. The character we discuss is Anne Elliot. In the historical section, Michael talks about the British Navy at the end of, and after, the Napoleonic Wars, and for popular culture Harriet discusses various modernised versions of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Character discussion: YouTube video: Karolina Żebrowska, Why Does Hollywood Hate Gentle Characters? ‖ Netflix “Persuasion” Review (2022) Popular culture discussion: Melissa Nathan, Persuading Annie (2000) Sara Marks, Modern Persuasion (2017) Sonali Dev, Recipe for Persuasion (2020) Sarah Dass, Where the Rhythm Takes You (2021) Uzma Jalaluddin, Much Ado About Nada (2023) Melodie Edwards, Once Persuaded Twice Shy (2024) Rhombus Media, Slings and Arrows (2003-2006) [mentioned but not a Persuasion adaptation] Diana Peterfreund, For Darkness Shows the Stars (2012) John Wyndham, The Chrysalids (1955) [mentioned but not a Persuasion adaptation] Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games (2008) [mentioned but not a Persuasion adaptation] Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E10 Persuasion, Chapter 22

In this episode we look at the published version of Chapter 22. We talk about how proactive Anne is in these final chapters, the arrival of Charles, Mary and the Musgrove clan, Louisa’s change in personality, how the Musgroves all want Anne to be with them, and the first time Wentworth actually refers to the time he and Anne were together. The characters we discuss is are Charles and Mary Musgrove. In the historical section, Michael talks about the shooting, and for popular culture Harriet looks at two books that retell Persuasion from the point of view of another character. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Sheila Kaye-Smith and G.B. Stern, Talking of Jane Austen (1943) and More Talk of Jane Austen (1950) Historical discussion: E. W. Bovill, English Country Life, 1780-1830 (1962) ‘The Thing About Willoughby’s Pointers with guest Dr. Stephanie Howard-Smith‘, The Thing About Austen podcast, Episode 73 Popular culture discussion: Amanda Grange, Captain Wentworth’s Diary (2007) Dorothea-Sofia Rossellini, Mrs Clay: The Austen Expert’s Companion to ‘Persuasion’ (2016) Diana Birchall, In Defense of Mrs Elton (1999) Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E09 Persuasion, Chapter 21 and the cancelled Chapter 22

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: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Paul Wray, ‘Persuasion: Why the Revised Ending Works So Well’, Persuasions Online (2017), Volume 38, No. 1, Winter 2017. Historical discussion: Rory Muir, Love and Marriage in the Age of Jane Austen (2024) Popular culture discussion: Podcast Into the Austenverse BBC, Persuasion (1971) – starring Ann Firbank and Bryan Marshall. Watch on YouTube: Part 1 and Part 2 TVE, Novela: Persuasión (1972) – starring Maite Blasco and Juan Diego Watch on YouTube BBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds Watch on YouTube Clerkenwell Films, Persuasion (2007) – starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones Watch on YouTube Netflix, Persuasion (2022) – starring Dakota Johnson and Cosmo Jarvis Louisa’s fall from the Cobb (this YouTube video shows the same scene from the 1971, 1995, 2007 and 2022 adaptations of Persuasion) For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.

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S05E08 Persuasion, Chapters 19 to 20

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: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Historical discussion: Blackadder the Third (1987) YouTube video: Dr Timothy Moore, ‘Change & Challenge: The History of Bath’s Assembly Rooms‘, Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 30 July 2024 Assembly Rooms floorplan (Source: http://www.victoriahinshaw.com/victorias-vibes—-a-blog/archives/05-2019) Popular culture discussion: Persuasion (2023, Agatha Films) – starring Skylar Pierce and Dan Brown Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E07 Persuasion, Chapters 16 to 18

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: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Maria Edgeworth, Castle Rackrent (1800) Character discussion: Walter Scott, Waverley (1814) Patrick O’Brien, Master and Commander (1969) and sequels in the Aubrey and Maturin series Historical discussion: Charles Dickens, Martin Chuzzlewit (1844) Elizabeth Fry (19th century English prison reformer, social reformer, philanthropist and Quaker) Wellcome Collection in London Popular culture discussion: Modern Persuasion (2020, Tangerine Entertainment) – starring Alicia Witt and Shane McRae Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E06 Persuasion, Chapters 13 to 15

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: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Noel Streatfeild, Gran-Nannie (1976) and Ballet Shoes (1936) Novels of Charlotte M. Yonge Evelyn Waugh, Brideshead Revisited (1945) Alexander Pope, ‘The Rape of the Lock‘ (1712) Historical discussion: The Venerable Bede (c.672-735) Nennius (9th century Welsh monk) Google map of locations in Persuasion, zoomed in on Bath Popular culture discussion: Rational Creatures (2019, YouTube) – starring Kristina Pupo and Peter Giessl Harriet’s interview with the creators of Rational Creatures Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E05 Persuasion, Chapters 11 and 12

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: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Samuel Johnson, The Rambler (periodical, published 1750-1752) Dr John Gregory Hester Chapone Stairs on the Cobb The stairs closest to the shore (used in the 1971 adaptation) The middle set of stairs, known as ‘Granny’s teeth’ (used in the 1995 adaptation) The third set of stairs (used in the 2007 and 2022 adaptations) Google map of the steps on the Cobb For a list of references in the Historical and Popular culture sections, see this episode on our website.

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S05E04 Persuasion, Chapters 9 and 10

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: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Maria Edgeworth (reference in the Persuasion footnotes is to A Memoir of Maria Edgeworth with a Selection from her Letters (1867), vold. 2, pp. 5-6.) Character discussion: Irene Collins, Jane Austen and the Clergy (2002) Historical discussion: Anthony Trollope, The Last Chronicle of Barset (1867) Stipendiary Curate Act 1713 Popular culture discussion: Clerkenwell Films, Persuasion (2007) – starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones Watch on YouTube Stairs on the Cobb (photo) Louisa’s fall (this YouTube video shows the same scene from four different adaptations of Persuasion) Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E03.5 Persuasion, EXTRAS from Chapters 7 and 8

This is an in-between ‘extras’ episode. Our episodes are normally not more than an hour in length, which means that we usually have to cut a certain amount of material in the editing. But for Episode 3, we had much more material than usual. So we kept the episode down to an hour, but decided to release an ‘extras’ episode, with some of the bits we edited out. It’s a bit disjointed, but we hope you enjoy it. THINGS WE MENTION Character discussion: Sheila Kaye-Smith and G.B. Stern, Talking of Jane Austen (1943) and More Talk of Jane Austen (1950) Historical discussion: The Aubrey & Maturin novels of Patrick O’Brien Admiral Thomas Cochrane (1775-1860) Popular culture discussion: BBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds The Bounty (1984) CREATIVE COMMONS MUSIC USED Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E03 Persuasion, Chapters 7 and 8

In this episode, we talk about how how Jane Austen tells us about the feelings of Anne and Captain Wentworth, and how the narrator captures Anne’s emotions; the building up of the relationship between Charles and Mary, and their reaction to Little Charles’ accident; Mrs Musgrove’s feelings about her son; and Mrs Croft’s travels. The character we discuss is Captain Wentworth. In the historical section, Harriet’s partner Michael talks about the Navy, and for popular culture both Harriet and Michael discuss 1995 BBC film adaptation of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) Google map of locations in Persuasion Character discussion: First Impressions podcast, ‘Ep 17: Persuading Kristin to Like Persuasion‘, 22 January 2017. Historical discussion: The Aubrey & Maturin novels of Patrick O’Brien The Hornblower novels of C.S. Forester Admiral Thomas Cochrane (1775-1860) Security to Merchant Ships Act 1707 (6 Ann. c. 65), generally known as the Cruisers and Convoys Act 1708 Distribution of prize money: see table on our website Popular culture discussion: BBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds Watch on YouTube Stairs on the Cobb (photo) Louisa’s fall (this YouTube video shows the same scene from four different adaptations of Persuasion) The Bounty (1984) Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Christoph Willibald Gluck, Orfeo ed Euridice. File from IMSLP. Extract from

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S05E02 Persuasion, Chapters 4 to 6

In this episode, we talk about how the backstory of Anne and Wentworth is presented without comedy, and yet is absolutely enjoyable. We then move on to the introduction of Mary, and why she is the way she is, the generational change we see in the Musgrove family, and the very unsympathetic portrayal of Dick Musgrove. The character we discuss is Lady Russell. In the historical section, Ellen talks about social precedence, and for popular culture Harriet has watched the 1972 Spanish television adaptation of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006) George Eliot, Middlemarch(1872) Maria Edgeworth, The Good French Governess (1801) Charlotte M. Yonge, The Daisy Chain (1856) Ethel Turner, Seven Little Australians(1894) Historical discussion: Anthony Powell, The Acceptance World (1955) The Right Hon. the Countess of *******, Mixing in Society: A Complete Manual of Manners (1870) Debrett’s Tables of Precedence Popular culture discussion: TVE, Novela: Persuasión (1972) – starring Maite Blasco and Juan Diego Watch on YouTube: Playlist Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Christoph Willibald Gluck, Orfeo ed Euridice. File from IMSLP. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S05E01 Persuasion, Chapters 1 to 3

In this episode, we talk about the publishing history of Persuasion, the precise dates we are given in the book, the fact that we learn very little about Anne in the first chapters, and how well Mr Shepherd is managing Sir Walter. The character we discuss is Sir Walter Elliot. In the historical section, Ellen talks about baronets, and for popular culture Harriet gives an overview of the screen adaptations of Persuasion, and then talks in more detail about the about the 1971 BBC adaptation. Things we mention: Historical discussion: John Debrett, The Baronetage of England, containing their Descent and Present State (1808) William Dugdale, The antient usage in bearing of such ensigns of honour as are commonly called arms (1682) Thomas Wotton, The English Baronetage : containing a genealogical and historical account of all the English baronets, now existing (1741) John Burke, A Genealogical and Heraldic History of the Landed Gentry (1838) Popular culture discussion: BBC, Persuasion (1960) – starring Daphne Slater and Paul Daneman BBC, Persuasion (1971) – starring Ann Firbank and Bryan Marshall Watch on YouTube: Part 1 and Part 2 Stairs on the Cobb TVE, Novela: Persuasión (1972) – starring Maite Blasco and Juan Diego BBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán Hinds Clerkenwell Films, Persuasion (2007) – starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-Jones Netflix, Persuasion (2022) – starring Dakota Johnson and Cosmo Jarvis Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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Persuasion season starting in November

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

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: Richard Cronin and Dorothy McMillan [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Emma (2005) Janet Saidi, ‘Jane Fairfax Drops the Mic‘, The Austen Connection (9 September 2021) Historical discussion: William Savage, ‘The Georgian Clergy’, Pen and Pension (16 May 2018) Charlotte M. Yonge, Talks about the Laws We Live Under (1850) Irene Collins, Jane Austen and the Clergy (1994) Alan Lambert, ‘650 years of the office of Justice of the Peace/Magistrate‘, Amicus Curiae Issue 88 (2011) Elizabeth Gaskell, My Lady Ludlow (1858) Popular culture discussion: Naomi Royde-Smith, Jane Fairfax (1940) William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair (1847) – the character of Becky Sharpe appears in Jane Fairfax Characters from the novels of Maria Edgeworth also appear (and probably other novelists as well) Joan Austen-Leigh, A Visit to Highbury: Another View of Emma (1995) Diana Birchall, In Defense of Mrs Elton (1999) Amanda Grange, Mr Knightley’s Diary (2006) For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.

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S04E10 Emma, Chapters 46 to 50

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: Serene, The Piano Scene: through Jane’s eyes (11 December 2023) – and some other posts about Emma Popular culture discussion: Alexander McCall Smith, Emma: A modern retelling (2014) Sonali Dev, The Emma Project(2022) Audrey Bellezza and Emily Harding, Emma of 83rd Street(2023) Mäda Primavesi by Gustav Klimt Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S04E09 Emma, Chapters 42 to 45

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: Richard Cronin and Dorothy McMillan [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Emma (2005) Pod and Prejudice podcast John Sutherland, Is Heathcliff a murderer?: Puzzles in 19th-century fiction (1996) and Who Betrays Elizabeth Bennet?: Further Puzzles in Classic Fiction (1999) ‘The Thing About the Irish Car Party‘, The Thing About Austen podcast, Episode 70 Sheila Kaye-Smith and G.B. Stern, Talking of Jane Austen (1943) and More Talk of Jane Austen (1950) Historical discussion: Dorothy L. Sayers, Have His Carcase (1932) Beau Nash (1674-1762), well-known dandy and Master of Ceremonies at Bath ‘The Thing About Weymouth‘, The Thing About Austen podcast, Episode 45 Arthur Ransome, Swallows and Amazons (1930) Popular culture discussion: Adaptations: BBC, Emma (1972) – starring Doran Godwin and John Carson Miramax, Emma (1996) – starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Jeremy Northam ITV, Emma (1996) – starring Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong BBC, Emma (2009) – starring Romola Garai and Jonny Lee Miller Working Title Films, Emma (2020) – starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Johnny Flynn Modernisations: Paramount Pictures, Clueless (1995) – starring Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd YouTube, Pemberley Digital, Emma Approved (2013) – starring Joanna Sotomura and Brent Bailey For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.

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S04E08 Emma, Chapters 37 to 41

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: Pod and Prejudice podcast Tea with Cassiane YouTube videos about Regency dancing Somerset Maugham Historical discussion: The Speenhamland system Anthony Trollope, The Warden (1855) Robert Raikes Hannah More Popular culture discussion: Main version considered: YouTube, Quip Modest Productions, The Emma Agenda (2017) – starring Selis Maria Vargas and Angela Wong Carbone Other references YouTube, Pemberley Digital, Emma Approved (2013) – starring Joanna Sotomura and Brent Bailey ITV, Emma (1996) – starring Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong Working Title Films, Emma (2020) – starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Johnny Flynn Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

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S04E07 Emma, Chapters 32 to 36

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: Diana Birchall, In Defense of Mrs Elton (1999) John Mullan [Editor], The Oxford World’s Classics Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Emma (2022) Mary Deforest, ‘Mrs. Elton and the Slave Trade‘ Persuasions 9, 1987 Lona Manning, ‘What is Austen saying with Mrs. Elton?‘, 9 February 2023 John Sutherland, Can Jane Eyre be happy? (2000) Thomas Gray, ‘Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard‘ (1751) Historical discussion: Elizabeth Eastlake, ‘Vanity Fair and Jane Eyre‘, Quarterly Review 84, 1848 Anna Jameson, The Diary of an Ennuyée (1826) William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair (1847) Maria Edgeworth, The Good French Governess (1801) Ellen Jordan, The Women’s Movement and Women’s Employment in Nineteenth Century Britain (1999) Graph showing percentages of governesses, female milliners and domestic servants in various age groups as shown in the census of 1851. Popular culture discussion: Main version considered: YouTube, Pemberley Digital, Emma Approved (2013) – starring Joanna Sotomura and Brent Bailey Other references YouTube, Pemberley Digital, Lizzie Bennet Diaries (2012) – starring Ashley Clements and Daniel Vincent Gordh Paramount Pictures, Clueless (1995) – starring Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.

• Chapters

S04E06 Emma, Chapters 27 to 31

In this episode, we read chapters 27 to 31 of Emma. We talk about the entwined group of people who visit one another, how so many scenes read differently the second time through, Miss Bates’s monologues, Jane and the piano, reactions to the plan of having a ball, and Emma encouraging Harriet to stop thinking about Mr Elton. The character we discuss is Harriet Smith, and Ellen talks about illegitimacy. In the popular culture section, Harriet talks about the 1995 modernisation Clueless. Also, we are now on Instagram, at reading_jane_austen. Things we mention: General discussion: John Mullan, What Matters in Jane Austen?: Twenty Crucial Puzzles Solved (2012) Character discussion: Edith Lank, ‘“The word was blunder”: Who was Harriet Smith’s Mother?‘ Persuasions 7, 1985: 14-15 Helena Kelly, Jane Austen, the Secret Radical (2016) Historical discussion: Max Weber (1864-1920) Claire Tomalin, Charles Dickens (2011) Christine Kenyon Jones, ‘Ambiguous Cousinship: Mansfield Park and the Mansfield Family‘ Persuasions On-line 31 (1), 2010 BBC, Olivia Colman episode of Who Do You Think You Are (2018), Season 15, Episode 2 Popular culture discussion: Main version considered: Paramount Pictures, Clueless (1995) – starring Alicia Silverstone and Paul Rudd Other 1990s/2000s high school films based on classic literature 10 Things I Hate About You (1999), based on The Taming of the Shrew Cruel Intentions(1999), based on Les Liaisons dangereuses She’s All That (1999), based on Pygmalion / My Fair Lady O (2001), based on Othello She’s the Man(2006), based on Twelfth Night Easy A (2010), based on The Scarlet Letter For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.

• Chapters

S04E05 Emma, Chapters 22 to 26

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: Richard Cronin and Dorothy McMillan [Editor], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Emma (2005) Character discussion: Sheila Kaye-Smith and G.B. Stern, Talking of Jane Austen (1943) and More Talk of Jane Austen (1950) Historical discussion: ‘Regency Dinner Parties and Etiquette‘, The Jane Austen Centre (2011) Popular culture discussion: Main version considered: Working Title Films, Emma (2020) – starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Johnny Flynn Videos and web pages about costuming YouTube, Bernadette Banner, ‘5 Historical Films That Got the Costumes RIGHT‘ (2020) YouTube, Karolina Żebrowska, ‘Are “Emma.” (2020) Costumes Historically Accurate? aka What Makes Good Period Drama Costumes‘ (2020) ‘Emma (2020)‘, Frock Flicks (2020) Filming locations: Firle Place Wilton House Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio. Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP. Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen. Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen. Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

• Chapters