What Books Did Jane Austen Read?

Jane Austen, the par excellence of 19th-century English literature, emerges not only as an unparalleled novelist but also as a keen reader. Despite her satirical critique of Gothic novels, it is undeniable that these works played a significant role in shaping her unique narrative style and her extensive literary vocabulary. Looking at her body of work, it becomes evident that Jane Austen's reading habits were as diverse as they were profound.

Gothe Novels and Jane Austen's Critique

Even as Austen mocked the exaggerated and melodramatic elements of Gothic novels in her satirical masterwork, Northanger Abbey, it is clear that she was well-versed with the genre. Notably, she mentioned several Gothic novels by name, reflecting a deep familiarity. One of these is The Mysteries of Udolpho and The Italian by Ann Radcliffe, two of the most prominent Gothic novels of the time. Their influence on her illuminates the extent to which she engaged with this sub-genre.

Samuel Richardson's Clarissa: An Early Inspiration

Samuel Richardson's Clarissa is another significant literary work that caught Austen's attention. The format of her early works, which were originally drafted as a series of letters—a format remarkably similar to Richardson's—seems to confirm the influence of this novel on her. Richardson's complex narrative structure, emotional depth, and the exploration of a young woman's coming-of-age journey align with Austen's themes of love, marriage, and societal expectations.

Fanny Burney: A Literary Mentor

A major literary influence on Jane Austen was Fanny Burney, whose work Evelina lent the title to 'Pride and Prejudice.' However, Burney's other three novels—Cecilia, Camilla, and The Wanderer—are known for their length and are considered a challenge for the modern reader. Austen, thankfully, did not adopt Burney's narrative style in terms of length, making her works more accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences. This demonstrates a discerning choice on Austen's part, as well as a clear understanding of her audience's literary expectations.

Conclusion: Jane Austen's Diverse Reading List

In conclusion, Jane Austen's reading list was extensive and covered a wide range of literature, from Gothic romances to epistolary novels. Her engagement with these diverse works not only enriched her own writing but also broadened the scope of English literature for generations to come. Through her keen observations and satirical critique, she showcased the power of literature to reflect and critique societal norms, thereby cementing her place as one of the greatest English novelists in history.