Tag Archives: ladies

Discreet Affections in Jane Austen’s World

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When Mr. Darcy proposed to Elizabeth at Hunsford, she was taken utterly by surprise. How likely was it that the discreet affections of a courtship could really escape the notice of one of the parties involved? Courtship Advice for the Gentleman Unmarried men had to exercise caution around unmarried young ladies. Attentions or even particular friendliness might be interpreted as romantic interest by the lady or her friends and family. Since men were not to express … Continue reading →

Making Introductions in Jane Austen’s World

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In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Collins mortified Elizabeth Bennet at the Netherfield ball. His transgression? He introduced himself to Mr. Darcy and conversed with him. But why would introductions–or more specifically not having a formal one-have bothered her?  All About the Reputation During the Regency era, a young woman’s reputation could determine her future. A reputation could be marred by something as simple as an immodest fall while exiting a carriage. Mary Bennet was not exaggerating when … Continue reading →

‘Coming Out’ in Jane Austen’s World

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In Pride and Prejudice Lady Catherine made quite the to-do about all the Bennet sisters being out at once. What did it mean to come out and why, if it was such a good thing, should it be limited to only one sister at a time? Coming Out in Society When a girl was deemed ready by her family–sufficiently accomplished in all the skills she needed to be a social asset to her husband–she would make … Continue reading →

Schoolgirl Embroidery in Regency Britain

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by Julie Buck As we look at schools in Jane Austen’s time, and the role of needlework within that schooling, I think it’s important that you understand two things.  First of all, you need to know what a sampler is.  And secondly, you need to see how girls’ schooling developed from earlier centuries to arrive at what Jane Austen found when she was sent off to boarding school. A sampler is an example or sample … Continue reading →

To be an Accomplished Lady

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Regency women strove to become an accomplished lady, but what did that mean? During the Regency era, a proper education was crucial to a middle or upper class young lady’s future. Since a woman’s only ‘proper’ aspiration was to marriage, her education focused on making her noticeable to potential husbands. Her accomplishments enabled her to display cultural distinction and set herself apart from women who were merely ‘notable’—those who could only manage a household but … Continue reading →