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I love Jane Austen and what her writing did for women. She faced many difficulties living in Georgian England where women had very few options. But, with her novels, she encouraged women by assuring them that marrying for love was a good thing, and that using intelligence, perseverance and common sense would reward you. Her characters are complex and fascinating, and, I think, reveal much about Ms. Austen's personality as well.
As a sign of her true insight into relationships and love, her novels have endured in popularity for nearly two hundred years. The novels have also served as the foundation or inspiration for many films and other novels. Her stories intrigue and entertain both teenagers and adults alike.
Jane Austen also inspired many women to write novels and to express themselves. And for that, she has my sincere gratitude. Following in her footsteps were some of my other favorites: the Bronte sisters, Mary Anne Evans (George Eliot) and Louisa May Alcott. Each of these writers also possessed a clear, moral point of view. And all of them have had a part in shaping my own life and attitudes.
I like the little poem I once heard:
"The novels of Jane Austen are the ones to get lost in."
