Jane Austen and Me: An Ongoing Affair with Darcy, Knightley, and More

Jane Austen Again, Again, and Again

Last night, I watched two versions of Persuasion, and tonight it’s my favorite version of Mansfield Park. Since I’ve found a Mansfield Park adaptation I actually enjoy, I’ll possibly add in Pride and Prejudice to balance it out. Sunday and Monday nights were dedicated to Emma.

It seems there’s only one Jane Austen adaptation I’m not fond of—and that’s Northanger Abbey. Sense and Sensibility also ranks a bit lower on my watch list. I’ll still watch it, just not nearly as often as the others I’ve mentioned. Sanditon is another enjoyable watch, but since Jane Austen passed before finishing it, it was completed by others. As much as I enjoy the characters of Sanditon, I believe there are elements in the show that Jane herself might not have included in her original work. Although, she might appreciate what they’ve done to adapt it into a full series.

Why do I love Jane Austen so much? Why do I find myself watching the films and now listening to her books in audio form?

Why have her stories lasted through the years? Why are there hundreds—maybe thousands—of people who pay $500, or even a few thousand dollars, to attend Jane Austen tours and immersive experiences?

I can’t say for certain why others feel this connection, but for me… I would love for even a few of my characters to be half as memorable as any of hers.

Like so many others, I’ve fallen in love with Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, Mr. George Knightley, Edmund Bertram, Captain Frederick Wentworth, or Colonel Brandon. And yes — possibly even a few of the Rakes in her novels, like Mr. Henry Crawford (my favorite).

Or perhaps you’d rather see yourself as one of the leading ladies—Fanny Price, Elizabeth Bennet, or Emma.

I would love for my books to be even a fraction as well-loved as hers. Will that happen? Maybe… maybe not.

I’m glad that before she passed, Jane Austen knew that her stories were loved by many. Sadly, not all authors, artists, or creatives—especially the greats—get to witness their work appreciated in their lifetime.

So yes, Jane Austen is one of my classic favorites. If you’d like to know which movie versions I prefer, let me know—I’d be happy to share.

Till next time… I’m off to finish watching my movie, then move on to Bridgerton. But that’s another story for another time. What’s your favorite season so far?

Wishing you a wonderful week—may your days be filled with hugs, love, laughter, and blessings.