The Dover Reader: Jane Austen

Two centuries after their initial publication, the novels of Jane Austen (1775–1817) continue to enchant modern readers. Like many of her heroines, the author inherited a respectable pedigree but no wealth, which doubtless enhanced her insights into the lives of impoverished gentlewomen. Rich in memorable characters, Austen's compelling tales of love and marriage combine engrossing narratives with sparkling dialogue and psychological depth. This anthology focuses on Austen's preoccupation with the domestic sphere and the limitations imposed upon women of her era. In addition to excerpts from her personal letters and her Juvenilia, the collection also includes the complete text of two of Austen's most popular books: her masterpiece, Pride and Prejudice, and her final and possibly most sophisticated novel, Persuasion.