No prior reading of Northanger Abbey is required to participate in this session, nor do you have to have watched any media adaptations. We will consider Jane Austen's novel, its' reception by the reading public, its' setting and the inspiration and influences that the author drew on to produce this work. Published posthumously in 1818, the work tells the story of an obsession with the popular Gothic novels of the day, and the dangers of allowing your conclusions to run away with you. The main character's exploits in the City of Bath are also detailed, and we have a portrait of the social life and customs of this important centre of social activity. Catherine Morland eventually becomes the victim of her own wild imagination, and is unable to identify and disregard those friends who are only concerned with their own interests. Will good sense eventually prevail?
Course aim
The course is for anyone who is interested in exploring the work of the well-loved novelist Jane Austen. We consider one of the two novels - Northanger Abbey (1818) - published posthumously following her death in 1817.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
- A course handout will be available on the Canvas learning platform, to reinforce points covered during the session. Course members can download this and read it after the session finishes.
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Summarise several important character traits demonstrated by at least two of the characters in the book.
- Have an understanding of some of the possible influences that Jane Austen used when writing Northanger Abbey.
- Recall some of the opinions about the book from reviewers and/or members of the Austen family's social circle.
- Discuss the importance of 'accomplishments' mentioned in the book and outlined during today's session.
What else do I need to know?
No prior reading of Northanger Abbey is required to participate in this session, nor do you have to have watched/listened to any TV/film/stage or radio production of the book. No equipment is required: course members may wish to bring writing materials to make their own notes.
View full course information sheet
The Work of Jane Austen – A gothic thriller… Northanger Abbey
