Anna Massey

As with all Jane Austen's novels, Persuasion draws much of its appeal from the author's talent for observation and for satire. Notice first how the characters reveal their personalities as much through their speech - both in their choice of words or...

In Sense and Sensibility Jane Austen comments on the financial situation of women. Elinor and Marianne are virtually penniless in a world where the 'marriage market' is largely governed by money. They lose their home on their father's death ? as did...