Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Emma, Persuasion and Mansfield Park are among the many celebrated novels written by the English novelist Jane Austen. Her timeless stories have been turned into a plethora of movies, television shows and modern adaptations, in addition to being translated into multiple languages. It’s an incredible legacy considering her novels were originally published anonymously, during a period when women were perceived as incapable of creativity and intelligence in a male-dominated society. Her female characters have inspired women all over the world to break traditional moulds, stay true to themselves and stand for what they believe in.
Austen’s protagonists are bold, funny, clever, brave and ultimately flawed and imperfect in their own ways, teaching us important lessons on life, love and everything in between. She was way ahead of her time and would subtly critique the norms and beliefs of her day with her dark wit and humour. Here are a few life lessons we can all learn from her novels.
It’s never too late for a second chance
Life always offers us a second chance—it’s called tomorrow. In Persuasion, Anne Elliot turns down Frederick Wentworth because she was unsure about their future. In doing so, she almost loses him forever. But when they met again, both realise that they are still in love with one another and decide to make amends. The Jane Austen novel teaches us that it is never too late to start over and try again. So, when life gives you a second chance, grab it with both hands.
Appearances can be deceptive
You must have come across people who appear extremely charming, witty and pleasant at first. Their agenda may not always be obvious, but if they seem too good to be true, then you may need to proceed with caution. Don’t depend on them much because when you really need them, they may not come to your rescue. Such people can be selfish, mean, and at times, downright rude. Like George Wickham in Pride and Prejudice. He appeared to be a model of a gentleman, but in truth, he was a liar and an opportunist, who gained Elizabeth Bennet’s sympathy by claiming to have been wronged by Fitzwilliam Darcy. Appearances can be deceiving. It is an important life lesson that you can learn from Jane Austen novels.
You need to stand your ground
In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet could have taken Lady Catherine’s harsh criticism about her to heart, but instead, she stood up for herself and what she believed in. She responded to Lady Catherine’s animosity very coolly and didn’t let it hamper her self-esteem. In life, you will come across situations where you’ll be left with no other option but to stand up for yourself. Your self-worth can build your character and make you a better, stronger person.
Keep an open mind
Most of the time, we do not see things with an open mind. We have our preconceived notions and beliefs, and we try to project them onto current situations. Instead of seeking the truth, our mind is clouded by an elaborate theory that bears no resemblance to what’s going on in front of us. Learning to become more aware of our thoughts is an important step to see things more clearly. Just because it feels true doesn’t make it true. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet formed a negative opinion of Fitzwilliam Darcy when he snubbed her at a public dance. But when he showed kindness and courtesy towards her and her relatives, whom he had previously considered inferior, she understood that there is more to him than meets the eye.
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