Take a deep dive into the world of Pride and Prejudice in this guided viewing in the Library.

Jane Austen’s novels, none more so than Pride and Prejudice, paint a picture of Regency fashions, morals, and etiquette, with examples of both perfect politeness and bad behaviour. Against a backdrop of social calls, dinners and balls, Austen’s characters comment on women’s education, accomplishments, and marriage prospects. The formidable Lady Catherine de Bourgh grills Elizabeth Bennet on the education her sisters received in music and drawing, casting a light on what was expected from young women from differing social backgrounds. Meanwhile, ridiculous Mr Collins reads Fordyce’s Sermons – a manual for women on how to behave – to a room full of bored Bennet sisters who would prefer to listen to novels. Elizabeth’s own behaviour, which often flies in the face of social expectations, gets her the attention of the hero, Mr Darcy, whilst Lydia’s recklessness almost ruins her whole family.

This guided viewing will journey through the world of Pride and Prejudice, via the works by and about women in the Chawton House collection, discussing Austen's influences and the works and ideas she drew on in the making of her most famous novel.

Tickets: £15 (includes mulled wine on arrival)