The Life and Career of Jane Austen

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Jane Austen was an exceptional English author of romantic fiction novels. However, it was not until after Jane’s lifetime that she was well acknowledged as a writer. Jane grew up with a large family whom she was very close to. She was inspired by her family greatly, and because of this wrote about situations relatable to everyday life. She was also a very innovative author; she helped to shape new ways of writing in her works. Through examining Jane’s relationships, dynamics of her writing, and novels themselves, we will be able to have a much broader understanding of Jane.
Firstly, Jane lived a fairly quiet childhood. Her parents stressed academics profusely and encouraged their children to indulge in their father’s library consistently. Although Jane lived a rather provincial life, through her brothers refined lifestyles she was able to experience exquisite things. For instance, her brother Edward, was adopted by their wealthy cousins, the Knights, and later became the heir to their estate. When Jane spent time with her brother Edward she was able to be a part of his luxurious world. Jane was also exposed to great culture of arts at a young age. Jane visited her brother, Henry, in London and was able to attend theatrical productions, art shows, and social events that allowed her to be around very talented writers. The culture and experiences Jane was exposed to at this time inspired her tremendously and are reflected in her novels.
Jane was also influenced through her relationships outside of her family. It is likely that she was arranged to marry Harris Bigg-Wither, a 21-year-old heir from a Hampshire family, but the following day Jane changed her mind. There are also many conflicting stories that cause one to believe Jane...

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...o was able to do so while relating to the everyday man. Jane was even able to write incredible love stories without ever experiencing great love for herself. Although Jane was not widely known in her own lifetime, the impact of her novels continues to radiate today. Jane Austen is truly inspirational through her successes and deserves to be honored and well respected for her works.

Works Cited

"Jane Austen." DISCovering Authors. Detroit: Gale, 2003. Student Resources in Context. Web. 17 Mar. 2014.

"Jane Austen's Life." Jane Austen's Life. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Mar. 2014.

"Jane Austen." World Eras. Ed. James R. Farr. Vol. 9: Industrial Revolution in Europe, 1750-1914. Detroit: Gale, 2003. 80-81. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 17 Mar. 2014.

Southam, Brian C., and EB Ed. "Britannica School." Britannica School. Athlone Press, n.d. Web. 17 Mar. 2014.

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