Description
Book SynopsisOriginally published in 1994. In The Improvement of the Estate, Alistair Duckworth contends that understanding Mansfield Park is fundamental to appreciating Jane Austen's body of work. Professor Duckworth understands Mansfield Park as underscoring the central uniting theme in Austen's workher concept of the estate and its improvement. The author illustrates Austen's connection to the values of Christian humanism, which she conveys through the uniting theme of estate improvement. According to Duckworth, the estate represents moral and social heritage, so the manner in which individuals seek to improve their estates in Jane Austen's novels represents the direction in which she saw the state and society moving. Finally, Duckworth underscores Austen's awareness of the importance of a society of individuals whose behavior is socially informed.
Trade ReviewOne is not only impressed with Mr. Duckworth's knowledge and insights in this special analysis of Jane Austen's fiction, but also with his knowledge of English fiction in general . . . An informed commentary on Jane Austen's thought, attitudes, and intentions.
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Virginia Quarterly ReviewTable of ContentsMode of Citation
Preface to the Paperback Edition
Preface to the Hardcover Edition
Introduction: Some Critical and Literary Contexts
Chapter 1: Mansfield Park: Jane Austen's Grounds of Being
Chapter 2: Aspects of Northanger Abby and Sense and Sensibility
Chapter 3: Pride and Prejudice: The Reconstruction of Society
Chapter 4: Emma and the Dangers of Individualism
Chapter 5: Persuasion: The Estate Abandoned
Postscript: Sanditon
Index
