Lecture outline

Jane Austen’s novels are famous for their depiction of human character as revealed through the practice of conversation. From the verbal sparring of Pride and Prejudice to the dangerous wit of Emma, from the dramatic disclosures of Sense and Sensibility to the ‘dead silence’ of Mansfield Park, or in the gradual intimations of Persuasion, Austen’s novels depict a world in which speech matters.

By making some comparisons with the with her sister authors in late eighteenth-century, revolutionary Europe, I will aim to illuminate Austen’s investment in the moral force of conversation and her lasting contribution to the history of the novel as a critical tool in defining modern notions of culture, education and freedom of speech.

Biographical note

Elizabeth Eger is Reader Emerita, King’s College London. She has published widely on various eighteenth- century topics, including Luxury, Bluestockings and the history of collecting. She is currently completing a biography of Elizabeth Montagu, Queen of the Bluestockings.

Attending the lecture

The lecture is open both to members of the Society and to guests.

The lecture will take place in Hansom Hall - how to find Hansom Hall.

Please note that tea and coffee drinks will be available between 7.00pm and 7.15pm before the formal start of the event at 7.30pm.

The lecture will also be streamed on Zoom. A recording of the lecture may be available to members only.