Episode 64: My Jane Austen Heritage with Caroline Knight, Jane Austen's Great niece

Send us a Text Message.Imagine growing up in a home where every corner whispers stories of Jane Austen. In this episode, I will be chatting with Caroline Jane Knight, Jane Austen’s 5th great-niece and founder of the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation.Caroline shares her experience growing up in, and eventually leaving, Chawton House, the Knight family home. Through childhood anecdotes, she paints a vivid picture of living amid literary heritage, balancing tradition with the realities of daily life. Caroline's story transcends the past. Once a corporate powerhouse, she now champions the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation, inspired by her Austen connection. The Jane Austen Literacy Foundation stands as a testament to her and the incredible volunteers' dedication. Caroline discusses the Foundation's initiatives, from global writing competitions to literacy events, fostering a passionate volunteer network to support literacy projects in developing communities.As Caroline reflects on Austen’s writing and her own experiences, we gain insights that are both deeply personal and universally resonant, finding a way back to your roots.  Join us for an episode that honours Jane Austen's enduring spirit through none other than her own great-niece. Host a Jane Austen Tea for Literacy Sanditon Celebration Event: BOOK HEREWhere can you find the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation? Website Instagram: @janeaustenliteracyfoundationFacebook YoutubeMy article for the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation: ISSUE 97: A WISE WOMAN FIT FOR REGENCY ENGLANDSupport the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Join me and Ellis as we assemble a Jane Austen guide to Bath. Together, we'll explore Austen's complex bond with this iconic city, from its social allure to its challenges.We'll dive into Austen's portrayal of Bath in "Northanger Abbey" and "Persuasion," examining how she depicted its social intricacies and landscapes. As we stroll through Bath's streets and assembly rooms, I'll reveal the places Austen frequented, from Lansdowne Crescent to Westgate Buildings.Ellis shares insights into the history of Bath and as a local, she offers personal reflections on Bath's historical tapestry and Austen's connection to it. Whether it's the lively pump rooms or the romance of Lover's Lane, each anecdote adds depth to our understanding of Bath as a character in Austen's world.Join us to uncover the historical charm and literary whispers of Bath—a city that both captivated and challenged Jane Austen.Bath Blog post from Ellis:Georgette Heyer's novels Jane Austen at Home: A Biography by Lucy WorsleyUPROAR!: Satire, Scandal and Printmakers in Georgian London by Alice Loxton Where can you find Ellis? @historian_ellishttps://historianellis.wordpress.com/ Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, I have the pleasure of being joined by Tom Ayling, an antiquarian bookseller and content creator. Together, we'll dive into Jane Austen's literary craftsmanship and the timeless allure of collecting her works. We'll embark on a journey through Austen's manuscripts, unraveling the mysteries behind her genius and the profound legacy she left with her pen. Furthermore, we'll delve into the significance of hard copies in an author's fame amidst digital records, and navigate the complexities of rare book collecting, sharing personal anecdotes and valuable advice for aspiring collectors. Come join us as we uncover pieces of literary history together.This episode is a beautiful tapestry of history, literature and book keeping. Apologies in advance for the echo on my end, I had to record at my Grandparents as our wifi cut out and the room was all hard surfaces.Mentions: Jane Austen.ac.uk - Project spearheaded by professor Catherine SunderlandR.W Chapman Jane Austen, The Watsons @ the Bodleian Where can you find Tom? @tomwaylingTom Ayling on YouTubehttps://www.tomwayling.co.uk/ Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.We are diving deep into the captivating world of Jane Austen's male characters! Joining me is Sophie Andrews, also known as Laughing With Lizzie. Together, we embark on a journey of introspection, exploring the virtues and complexities of Austen's gentlemen. From Mr. Knightley's steadfast evolution to Mr. Darcy's lessons in social finesse, we compare Captain Wentworth's resilience to Colonel Brandon's patience and put Henry Crawford on trial. Our conversation sheds light on love, duty, and character development, resonating across Austen's novels.Join the conversation on Instagram and share your thoughts, we'd love to hear from you! Where can you find Sophie?Instagram: @laughingwithlizzieBook: Be more Jane & Be your own HeroineBlog: http://laughingwithlizzie.blogspot.com/Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCfVhOxVmayHjm4O9qGbCMbABBC Documentary 'My Friend Jane': https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b08ywkjv Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Let's discuss Mr. Darcy's misguided first proposal in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice"! Caily is back and we are decoding Regency-era emojis, dissecting Darcy's cringe-worthy moves, and exploring how each adaptation puts a fresh spin on his character.From breaking all the etiquette rules to the aftermath of his ego-check moment, we're serving up a quick, laugh-packed discussion on love, pride, and the occasional proposal blunder. Tune in for all the details 🤍📖🎙️✨Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Who's ready to take a closer look at one of literature's most iconic friendships? Get ready as we unravel the dynamic bond between Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice! For this captivating conversation about camaraderie, I'm joined by best-selling author Ben Mercer. In this episode, we will shine a spotlight on the representation of male friendships within Pride and Prejudice and draw parallels to modern friendships. Bingley and Darcy showcase a delightful dance of mutual dependence and respect, essentially the OG bromance, and we will delve into how sincerity and respect form the backbone of any lasting connection. So, grab a coffee and join us as we celebrate this literary duo!"Where can you find Ben? Insta & TikTok @bcemercerNewsletter Books Mentioned in the Ep: https://janeaustensworld.com/2008/12/06/in-janes-own-words-two-brothers-talk/ __________________________ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_friendships_among_men_are_so_important#:~:text=Intimate%20friendships%20with%20men%2C%20sometimes,help%20in%20time%20of%20need     Article by Jill Suttie ‘Intimate friendships with men, sometimes called “bromances,” can be even more fulfilling than romantic relationships with women, perhaps because men feel more understood by other men and assume men friends will be more loyal and willing to help in time of need.’‘But men also have fewer close male friends for other reasons, too. Societal pressures to conform to a particular model of masculinity can hamper the development of intimacy with others. This starts at a young age, when boys are given the message they should not express their emotions or seek emotional comfort from other boys lest they be condemned for being too “soft,” “feminine,” or “gay.”’ __________________________Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEPURE pet food 50% off your box! Love this food for Hoggy it's easy to store and has all the nutrients he needs! PlumInvest and save easily with plum! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Ever caught yourself daydreaming about twirling around like a character in a Jane Austen novel, decked out in those fancy Regency-era outfits? Well, I am joined by Shannyn from Wisteria and Lace in this episode, and we are diving head-first into that dreamy world.We chat about the enchanting costume designs in Jane Austen adaptations and get down to the nitty-gritty details of period costumes! We are breaking down "Emma" and "Pride and Prejudice," discussing the costume choices that reveal way more about the characters than you might think. Shannyn is ready to bust myths about corsets and dress reform, giving you the lowdown on how film adaptations either nail historical accuracy or, well, unravel it a bit.So, whether you're a seasoned seamstress or just curious about empire waistlines, this episode is a goldmine for anyone who loves a bit of elegance from the past and those timeless tales spun by Jane Austen. Come join the fun, and let's celebrate the art of historical fashion together! 🌸👗✨Hilary Davidson: Dress in the Age of Jane Austen: Regency Fashion Article on 2005 Pride and Prejudice and the Importance of Costume StorytellingFrock flicks articleJoin the Janeite Tribe Patreon & Book ClubWhere can you find Shannyn? Instagram: @wisteria.and.laceBuzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEPURE pet food 50% off your box! Love this food for Hoggy it's easy to store and has all the nutrients he needs! PlumInvest and save easily with plum! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message."Emma"  has never felt more vivid and imaginative, thanks to Georgie's artistic prowess from Duniath Comics.  It was wonderful to hear about Georgie's Jane Austen journey from finding solace within the pages of "Sense and Sensibility" to creating his own Jane Austen-themed comics, serving as both a sanctuary and a spark for creative endeavours. Georgie explains how he creates both graphic novels and comics and how he uses this medium to retell much-loved classics with a fresh perspective. This episode is a celebration of Jane Austen's work, the Janeite community and the work creators like Georgie are doing to help make this space inclusive and welcoming to all - a space Jane Austen herself would be proud of. Where can you find Georgie Castilla Website Youtube Instagram: @duniathcomicsSupport the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Have you ever envisioned Jane Austen entangled in a murder investigation? I am joined by novelist Jessica Bull, who brings this fascinating concept to life in ‘Miss Austen Investigates’.It was amazing to discuss how Jessica’s teenage love of Jane Austen led her down the rabbit hole that would eventually inspire her to write a story where our favourite literary icon takes on a whole new role. Her dedication to research and authenticity breathes life into a narrative that balances historical accuracy with the creative flair that only a true Janeite could master 📖  Where can you find Jessica?Instagram: @Jessicabullnovelist Buy Miss Austen Investigates PURE pet food 50% off your box! Love this food for Hoggy it's easy to store and has all the nutrients he needs! PlumInvest and save easily with plum! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast

Send us a Text Message.Grab your teacup and join Caily and me as we spark a lively debate that may just upend your literary loyalties with another Jane Austen Unpopular Opinions Episode! Pride and Prejudice is not Jane Austen's best novel. Mr Darcy is not shy and Mr Bingley is spineless   The 2008 Sense & Sensibility is better than the 1995 one?A few more to spice things up...As always this episode was so much fun to make, if you want to connect with Caily you can find her on loads of episodes and also here: Where can you find Caily?Instagram: @half_agony_half_hopePURE pet food 50% off your box! Love this food for Hoggy it's easy to store and has all the nutrients he needs! Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.Where can you find your host (Izzy)? Website: www.whattheausten.com Podcast Instagram: @whattheaustenPersonal Instagram: @izzy_meakinYoutube: What the Austen? Podcast