One
Woman’s Perspective
Dramatic
plot turns, surprise twists and unrealistic action are some elements that can
get a reader interested in a book. However, Jane Austen managed to turn out
seven complete novels, all of them becoming classics, with none of them
containing the writing devices previously listed. Instead, Jane Austen’s works
are a portrayal of the society she lived in. Her books are structured around
strong female characters, marriage, a realistic plot, and many of Austen’s life
experiences.
In
Austen’s works, almost all of the main female characters have a strong sense of
independence and practicality. As journalist Rebecca Traister writes, “Her
(Austen’s) heroines are not so much breathless and overcome by their emotions
as they are practical and genuine” (George 1). Marianne of Sense and Sensibility is at first impulsive and rather imprudent,
but by the end of the novel matures greatly, realizing her mistakes and
managing to recover from all of the troubles that have happened upon her
throughout the novel. Marianne’s sister Elinor, however, could be described as consistently
sensible, composed, and mature. Fanny Price of Mansfield Park
is mistreated by her extended family, but remains strong, modest, and always
proper. Anne Elliot of Persuasion is
clever and practical, level headed, and considerate of others. During the era of Jane Austen’s books, many
women married because it was the only guarantee of a comfortable life. They ….
