ENGL 2921H: Jane Austen in Her Time

Abstract

Jane Austen’s novels have been called “timeless” in the sense that they still appeal to readers today. In this course we examine the assertion by considering the novels as products of their time. In this course we will think about Austen’s development as a writer. We will read all of Austen’s work in chronological order, paying particular attention to cultural and historical contexts that helped shape the novels and to learn about the issues with which the novels engage. ¶Course Goals and Objectives: By the end of the semester, students will have read and thought about Austen’s work and her development as a writer, have considered contemporary and current debates relevant to the novels and will have analyzed Austen's work and engaged with arguments about the texts via discussion and in their own written work.