|
I loved most of the novels, though the last in the book was my least favourite. I managed to read this book just before seeing the TV production of 'Pride & Prejudice' (probably a repeat when I saw it) and am glad the order was so. My own visualisation of the characters' appearance was very different from that on screen and I would have been denied that pleasure had I seen the TV first. Jane Austen's portrayal of the characters is excellent and very believable. You do not need the television to see them very clearly for yourself. For those of us living in the present day some of the expectations of the people in the novels seem very odd. I for one cannot imagine being so subservient, nor can I imagine relying on anyone else to provide for me. Only the fact that I enjoy reading the classics makes their lives familiar. As an insight into former times these novels are a wealth of information, woven into wonderful scenarios with depth and clarity, forming a most enjoyable whole. Definitely worth a read.
|