NTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………...3
CHAPTER ONE GENERAL THEORETICAL BACKGROUND OF THE
PAPER………………………………………………………………………………7
1.1 The influence of Austen’s life on her writing………………………...………7
1.2 The picturesque: definition, origins and
characteristics……………………..13
1.3 The impact of the English landscape on Austen’s
writing…………………..21
1.4 Pride and Prejudice settings………………………………………………..27
CHAPTER TWO LANDSCAPE AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE IN JANE AUSTEN’S NOVEL PRIDE AND PREJUDICE………………………………..35
2.1 Verbal representation of landscape in Pride and Prejudice………………...35
2.2 Landscape’s literary influence on character
development and identity in Pride and
Prejudice……………………………………………………………..40
2.3 Gender relations and nature imagery in Pride and Prejudice………………46
2.4 Pride and
Prejudice and the power of the pastoral to restore serenity and
understanding…………………………………………………………………...51
2.5 Austen’s pastoral scenes and social perception in Pride and Prejudice……60
CONCLUSION……………………………………………………………………67
SUMMARY………………………………………………………………………..71
BIBLIOGRAPHY…………………………………………………………………73
INTRODUCTION
The relationship between literature
and landscape has always been a captivating subject of inquiry, often revealing
deep connections that extend beyond the realms of storytelling. The choice to explore
the intersection of Jane Austen's timeless novel "Pride and Prejudice" (1813) with the concept of the English
picturesque landscape resonates with profound significance, offering a lens
through which we can unearth the symbiotic influence between literary narrative
and the physical environment.
Jane Austen, a seminal figure in
English literature, crafted narratives that transcended the temporal boundaries
of her era. "Pride and Prejudice,"
a pinnacle of her works, not only stands as a profound examination of human
relationships and societal norms but also exhibits a narrative that is deeply
entwined with the world she inhabited. The vivid portrayal of characters and
their interactions is intrinsically linked with the backdrop of the English
landscape, symbolizing the interplay between nature and human emotions.
In the early 19th century, the
picturesque movement emerged as a pivotal artistic and cultural trend. It
celebrated the sublime beauty of the natural world, accentuating scenes that
were harmoniously imperfect, rustic, and evocative. This aesthetic philosophy
recognized the enchanting allure of the countryside and its transformative
effect on human perception. The picturesque offered a new perspective on the
English landscape, one that directly resonates with the themes and narrative
style of Austen's "Pride and
Prejudice".
The relevance of exploring the
picturesque within the context of "Pride
and Prejudice" lies in the opportunity to uncover hidden layers of
meaning and enrich the reader's understanding of Austen's narrative choices.
The novel itself is an intricate tapestry of societal norms, personal
prejudices, and emotional complexities. By examining how the picturesque lens
influences the portrayal of landscapes, we gain insight into the subtleties of
character development, mood creation, and thematic resonance.
The societal context in which Jane
Austen wrote was one of significant changes in both urbanization and
agricultural development. The picturesque movement was intrinsically tied to
the evolving perception of nature in the face of these changes. Through her
narrative, Austen not only mirrored societal shifts but also engaged in a
subtle dialogue with the broader cultural discussions about nature, aesthetics,
and the human experience.
This study holds immense potential for
literary analysis. The relevance of the picturesque to "Pride and Prejudice" goes beyond
the superficial, intertwining with narrative structure, character dynamics, and
thematic resonance. The landscapes depicted reflect not only external settings
but also internal emotional landscapes of the characters. The picturesque
becomes a tool that shapes narrative tone, foreshadows events, and underscores
the interplay between characters' inner worlds and the external environment.
The
topicality of this research: the significance of investigating the
interplay between "Pride and Prejudice" and the picturesque landscape
lies in the promise of unveiling hidden tapestries woven within Austen's
narrative canvas. This intersection goes beyond the superficial portrayal of
settings, delving into the profound resonance of landscapes as mirrors,
symbols, and catalysts of character dynamics and emotional shifts. By delving
into this connection, we enrich our understanding of Austen's narrative
craftsmanship and offer readers new avenues to engage with her timeless
characters and themes.
The
scientific novelty of this paper lies in its unique perspective that
bridges literature, art, aesthetics, and cultural context. While studies on
Austen's work often center on socio-cultural critiques or character studies,
our approach delves into the artistic undercurrents that Austen masterfully
integrated into her writing. This novel perspective offers a fresh avenue for
interpreting "Pride and Prejudice," connecting it to the broader artistic
and cultural movements of its time while revealing Austen's adept navigation of
the picturesque's influence on her narrative.
The
aim of the paper is to uncover and illuminate the intricate connections
between Austen's literary masterpiece "Pride and Prejudice" and the
aesthetic, philosophical, and cultural underpinnings of the English picturesque
landscape.
To achieve the purpose, the following
tasks were determined:
- to highlight the influence of
Austen’s life on her writing;
- to consider the impact of the
English landscape on Austen's writing;
- to explore landscape, travel and
aesthetic space in "Pride and
Prejudice";
- to analyze verbal representation of
landscape in "Pride and Prejudice";
- to determine landscape's literary
influence on character development and identity in "Pride and Prejudice";
- to trace gender relations and nature
imagery in Pride and Prejudice;
- to explore "Pride and Prejudice"
and the power of the
pastoral to restore serenity and understanding;
- to analyze Austen's pastoral scenes
and social perception in "Pride and
Prejudice".
Research
Methods. To achieve the objectives of this research, we will employ a
multifaceted research methodology that encompasses literary analysis, art and
aesthetic theory, cultural context exploration, and close textual examination.
Primary and secondary sources, including Austen's own writings, artistic
treatises of the picturesque movement, historical records, and critical
interpretations, will guide our exploration. Comparative analysis of textual
descriptions and artistic depictions will allow us to draw connections between
Austen's narrative and the visual aesthetics of her time.
The
subject of the master’s paper is revolves around the exploration of how the
English picturesque landscape influences and enriches the narrative of "Pride and Prejudice".
The
object of our research is to uncover the subtle resonances and nuanced
implications of the picturesque within "Pride and Prejudice".
Theoretical
Value: this research significantly contributes to literary theory by
introducing a unique perspective on the understanding of narrative landscapes.
By applying the lens of the English picturesque movement, we unveil the nuanced
symbolism and emotive resonance that landscapes carry within the narrative.
This theoretical approach not only deepens our understanding of Austen's
artistry but also advances the scholarly conversation about the interplay between
literature and visual aesthetics.
Practical
Value: on a practical level, this research enhances readers' appreciation
of "Pride and Prejudice" by
offering a new lens through which to engage with the novel. Readers gain a
deeper understanding of how Austen's deliberate use of picturesque landscapes
enriches character development, underscores themes, and shapes emotional
resonance. This heightened appreciation transforms the act of reading into a
multidimensional experience that transcends the written words.
In order to achieve the aim of this
research the master’s paper is structured in the following way. It consists of
an introduction, two chapters, conclusions, list of references and summary.
The
Introduction defines the framework of the forthcoming analysis, the methods
applied in it, the general overview of research in the field and sets the tasks
of the paper.
The
first chapter is devoted to the theoretical foundations of the work. It is
about landscape, travel and aesthetic space stories in "Pride and Prejudice". Particular
attention is paid to the peculiarities of Austen's work and life.
The
second chapter deals with the landscape and its significance in the novel.
It analyzes its verbal representation and literary influence.
The
Conclusion summarizes the major findings of the research conducted within
the framework of this work
The
List of references amounts to 60 items.
SUMMARY
This diploma explores the interplay
between Jane Austen's life, the picturesque movement, and the English landscape
in shaping her novel "Pride and
Prejudice." In Chapter One, the general theoretical background
establishes the influence of Austen's life on her writing, delves into the
picturesque movement's definition, origins, and characteristics, and examines
the impact of the English landscape on Austen's work, particularly in the
settings of "Pride and Prejudice."
By delving into Austen's life and the
picturesque movement, this study aims to uncover the nuanced ways in which
external influences manifested in her storytelling, particularly in the
carefully crafted landscapes within "Pride
and Prejudice." Chapter One sets the stage by illuminating Austen's
personal experiences and the broader cultural context that shaped her literary
sensibilities. The examination of the picturesque movement provides a lens
through which to understand Austen's deliberate incorporation of landscape
elements, with a focus on how they contribute to the overall ambiance of her
novel.
Chapter Two, the focal point of the study,
concentrates on the significance of landscape in Austen's novel. It analyzes
the verbal representation of landscape in "Pride and Prejudice," explores how the literary portrayal of
landscape influences character development and identity, investigates the role
of gender relations and nature imagery, and considers the power of pastoral
scenes to restore serenity and understanding in the narrative. The chapter
concludes by examining Austen's use of pastoral settings and their connection
to social perception within the context of "Pride and Prejudice." This diploma provides a comprehensive
examination of the intricate relationship between Austen's life, the
picturesque movement, and the English landscape in shaping her literary
masterpiece.
The examination doesn't stop at
aesthetics; it extends to the pastoral scenes within "Pride and Prejudice." This section probes the pastoral's
ability to act as a restorative force, fostering serenity and understanding
among the characters. Austen's deliberate use of these scenes serves not only
as a narrative device but also as a commentary on societal norms and values.
In essence, this diploma provides a comprehensive exploration of the symbiotic relationship between Austen's life, the picturesque movement, and the English landscape, revealing how these elements converge to form the literary masterpiece that is "Pride and Prejudice." Through a meticulous examination of Austen's choices in settings, narrative techniques, and thematic elements, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the novel's cultural, social, and artistic significance.
Key
words: Austen's life, writing
influences, picturesque movement, English landscape, Pride and Prejudice
settings, verbal representation, Landscape significance, character development,
identity, gender relations, nature imagery, power of the pastoral, social
perception, Austen's narrative choices.
CONCLUSION
Even today, Jane Austen's novels
maintain their popularity, enduring over two centuries since their initial
publication. The proliferation of screen and stage adaptations has further
heightened their recognition. Among Austen's works, "Pride and
Prejudice" stands out as the most renowned, with contemporary audiences
attributing this to the "Darcy Mania" sparked by the 1995 mini-book
adaptation. Nevertheless, Austen's novels faced challenges in earning literary
respect during her early career. Publishers were initially hesitant, and even
after publication, some of her contemporaries struggled to comprehend the
novels' widespread acclaim.
In a letter dated 1848, more than two
decades after Austen's death, Charlotte Brontë expressed bewilderment about the
appeal of Austen's works. Brontë's sentiments, as conveyed in her letter to
George H. Lewes, reveal a critical view of Austen's writing and her depiction
of landscapes: "Why do you like Miss
Austen? I am puzzled on that point...I had not seen Pride and Prejudice until I
read that sentence of yours, and then I got the book. And what did I find? An
accurate daguerreotyped portrait of a commonplace face; a carefully fenced,
highly cultivated garden with neat borders and delicate flowers; but no glance
of a bright, vivid physiognomy, no open country, no fresh air, no blue hill, no
bonny beck. I should hardly like to live with her ladies and gentlemen, in
their elegant but confined houses" [2, p. 368].
As Barbara Britton Wenner suggests,
Brontë's distaste for Austen's writing is linked to the landscape depiction in
her novels. Brontë contends that Austen adheres to the "cultivated garden, with neat borders and
delicate flowers" [6, p. 111]. However, Wenner argues that Austen's
descriptions, although neat, serve a deeper purpose, acting as more than just
settings. Austen skillfully employs pastoral scenes to delineate the identity
and values of her heroines, showcasing character development and changes in
social perception for the heroes and heroines to attain their happy endings.
Austen's passion for the English
countryside, shaped by her upbringing and family's involvement in farming, led
her to become an avid reader of Picturesque literature. Her preference for
walking in natural surroundings, influenced by her family's connection to
farming land, became a defining trait. In the early years, as the Picturesque
Movement gained momentum, Austen closely admired William Gilpin, incorporating
his teachings into her works, notably evident in "Pride and Prejudice." The pastoral serves as a tool to
identify Elizabeth's independent nature and desire for autonomy, illustrating
positive and negative traits in comparison to her family members. Elizabeth's
contemplative walks in nature contrast with her mother and younger sisters'
frivolous pursuits, underscoring Austen's use of the pastoral to reveal
character identities and development.
Austen employs the pastoral not only
to reveal the identity and character development of her heroines but also to
signify a shift in their social perceptions. In "Pride and Prejudice," two pivotal events showcasing this transformation
are Charlotte's marriage to Mr. Collins and Elizabeth's evolving opinions of
Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth's view of Charlotte's marriage alters when she visits
Hunford and Rosings, witnessing the material advantages of the estate that
align with Charlotte's desires for a content life. Regarding Mr. Darcy,
Elizabeth's perception undergoes a gradual change across multiple
locations—Hunsford, Rosings, and Pemberley. Her visit to Pemberley, with its
splendid setting, solidifies the association between a good estate and a
virtuous man, completing the transformation in her attitude.
While Austen's novels leave room for
readers to imagine the English landscape based on limited descriptions, book
adaptations vividly depict these scenes. The success of adaptations, like the
1995 mini-book and the 2005 theatrical version, owes much to the inclusion of
pastoral scenes. Austen's emphasis on the English landscape for identity,
character, and social perception necessitates visually impactful settings to
convey the intended imagery. Without such adaptations, Austen's novels might
not have transitioned into visual mediums as successfully as they have.
Contrary to some contemporaries, like
Charlotte Brontë, who criticized Austen's use of landscape for characterization,
this thesis highlights the significance of the pastoral in shaping "Pride and Prejudice." Austen's rich
references to nature are essential for comprehending the values central to her
heroines, particularly themes of freedom and independence embodied by characters
like Elizabeth. The Picturesque serves as a metaphorical representation of
these values, illustrating that even a resolute woman such as Elizabeth can
evolve, acknowledging when she is mistaken in her opinions.
The pastoral, as a literary tool, effectively
communicates human values that resonate with Austen's readers. Her heroines,
navigating mistakes, overcoming pride and prejudices, and ultimately attaining
happy endings, draw readers into a world where relatable characters triumph.
Austen's stories, exemplified by "Pride
and Prejudice," endure as memorable and timeless, capturing the
essence of human experiences and making her novels and their adaptations
perennial favorites for readers and viewers alike.
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