Jane Austen 
Northanger Abbey 

Jane Austen’s novel, Northanger Abbey, is a witty and satirical examination of society and the human heart. Set in the vibrant social scene of Bath, the novel follows the young and naive Catherine Morland as she navigates friendships, love, and societal expectations. Austen’s signature style of social commentary is on full display, as she cleverly critiques the superficiality of societal norms and the importance of genuine relationships. The novel is a playful parody of Gothic novels popular during Austen’s time, adding an extra layer of humor and intrigue. Jane Austen, known for her keen observation of human nature, drew inspiration for Northanger Abbey from her own experiences and observations of the society in which she lived. Her sharp wit and astute social commentary have cemented her as one of the most beloved authors in English literature. I highly recommend Northanger Abbey to readers who enjoy a blend of romance, satire, and social commentary. Austen’s storytelling and wit make this novel a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.

Giới thiệu về tác giả

Jane Austen (1775–1817), a seminal English novelist, is best recognized for her sharp social commentary and masterful use of free indirect speech, irony, and realism. Austen’s literary prowess manifests in her capacity to craft detailed narratives that explore the dependence of women on marriage for social standing and economic security during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Austen’s ‘Northanger Abbey’, a satirical gothic parody, was published posthumously in 1817, though it was one of her first completed works, written circa 1798-99 and originally titled ‘Susan’. In this novel, she deftly parodies the melodramatic novels of the period and critiques the notion of reading literature too literally, while delineating the coming-of-age story of its protagonist, Catherine Morland. Austen’s other works, including ‘Pride and Prejudice’, ‘Sense and Sensibility’, ‘Mansfield Park’, ‘Emma’, and ‘Persuasion’, solidify her enduring place in the canon of English literature. Her writing style, characterized by its wit and social observations, continues to influence and resonate with readers worldwide, underscoring her timeless appeal and the sustained scholarly interest in her oeuvre.