For March the hosts of The Classics Club have asked Do you love Jane Austen or want to “dig her up and beat her over the skull with her own shinbone”? (Phrase borrowed from Mark Twain.)
- Why (for either answer)?
- Favorite and/or least favorite Austen novel?
I don’t think I need to explain my views on Jane Austen. If you’ve read my blog you know I’m in love with Jane Austen. I’m so much in love with her that I even love the horrible fan-fiction/spinoff stuff that’s out there! So that’s some real dedication. And if you really want to know how much I love Austen, go read my fan-boy I love you post which was supposed to be my response to my re-read of Pride and Prejudice.
If I had to say what my favorite novel is I would probably say Mansfield Park, because of Fanny Price, and my least favorite is probably Emma, mostly because of the movie adaptation, but I also think it drags along, but we’ll see if my feelings remain the same after a reread for The Classics Club.
I, sadly, fall into the dislike category. No, I won’t dig her up and beat her dead body with her shinbone. I respect the cultural aspects of her fame (and confess that I really enjoy movie adaptations of Pride & Prejudice though I don’t really see the appeal in Mr Darcy, I’d rather a Mr Bingley myself), references, etc.
I just get so bored reading her books. Every few years I read another, hoping that I’ll enjoy it, but no dice. Emma was the most boring to me.
I agree about Bingley, especially the Keira Knightly version. Swoon. For me what sold me was the re-reads of P&P and MP.
YES. Those eyes!
I’m rather embarrassed that I’ve never managed to finish reading P&P (I get about half way through and lose interest). Maybe MP will be my next Austen Attempt.
It’s a lot harder and denser. Maybe try Persuasion?
Okay! Will give that one a try. 🙂
Now I know its you’re favourite I’m looking forward to reading Mansfield Park even more now 🙂 By film adaptation of Emma do you mean the 1996 film starring Gwyneth Paltrow? I tried watching that and gave up! I did love the BBC’s 2009 mini-series starring Romola Garai though.
Yeah the Paltrow one killed me. I vaguely remember a BBC version but I’m not sure if I actually watched it or just shuddered at the thought. I might have to check it out.