Jane Austen’s works are hugely celebrated throughout the globe and show no signs of slowing down. The last of her books, Persuasion and Northhanger Abbey were published in 1817. Since then, many of her books have been adapted for TV and film adaptations as well as reworked versions of her novels. Here are her top five books as voted for by fans on Goodreads.
5. Northanger Abbery (1817)
One of Austen’s last works to be published, Northanger Abbey follows Catherine Morland as she navigates society in Bath and visits the Tilney family’s estate – Northanger Abbey. Catherine’s imagination and her love for Gothic literature, lead her to misinterpret events in respect to the Tilney family. She learns the hard way that she must distinguish between fiction and reality.
4. Emma (1815)
Emma follows a wealthy and clever young woman living in the English countryside. She enjoys spending her time matchmaking and meddling in the lives of her friends and neighbours but this can often end in trouble and leads on to a journey of self-discovery and multiple marriages.
3. Sense and Sensibility (1811)
Sense and Sensibility follows contrasting romantic journeys between sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood after their father’s death leaves them in a scarce financial postion. Elinor, representing “sense,” navigates her feelings for Edward Ferrars with weariness, while Marianne, embodying “sensibility,” experiences passionate but painful relationships with John Willoughby and later, Colonel Brandon.
2. Persuasion (1817)
Persuasion is Austen’s final completed novel. It tells the story of Anne Elliot, a woman in her late twenties who, eight years prior, broke off her engagement to Frederick Wentworth due to his lack of wealth and social standing after being persuaded. When her family begin facing financial difficulties they rent out their estate, and Anne encounters Captain Wentworth again, who has since become a successful and respected naval officer.
1. Pride and Prejudice (1813)
It will come as no surprise to learn that her beloved novel, Pride and Prejudice has come out on top. Austen’s most famous book, follows the Bennet family, particularly Elizabeth, as they navigate the societal pressures of finding husbands in the English countryside in the 19th century. It centres on Elizabeth’s relationship with the wealthy and seemingly arrogant Mr. Darcy. It also explores other romantic interests and the complexities of class, social standing and marriage.