Jane Austen: Myth, Reality and Global Celebrity from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is for anyone with an interest in Jane Austen, including the members of Jane Austen Societies in North America, Japan, Brazil and many European countries. You will need a basic knowledge of her novels. Learners may be interested in the Master of Arts in Jane Austen offered by the University of Southampton. You can use the hashtag #FLJaneAusten to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

The Austen myth: who is she and what does she mean to people around the world?
An 18th century education: Jane and women’s education and reading
Austen’s literary and family influences
Austen’s ‘dirty walks’: gardens and landscapes in Austen’s writing
The marketing of Jane Austen at home and abroad – how her legacy has endured and built her celebrity
Austen’s afterlives: adapting Jane Austen for the modern age in film, TV
Austen as a commodity: portraits, hair and merchandising

Reviews summary

Jane austen's global impact explored

According to students, this course offers a deep dive into the multifaceted world of Jane Austen, moving beyond traditional literary analysis to explore her global celebrity and cultural impact. Learners consistently praise the expert and passionate instructor, whose engaging lectures provide fresh perspectives and a rich, detailed understanding of Austen's legacy. While a basic knowledge of her novels is recommended, many found it enlightening even for long-time enthusiasts, covering unique aspects like Austen's marketing and adaptations. The course is widely considered a highly enriching experience for those interested in the author's broader significance and enduring appeal.

Benefits those with a basic understanding of Austen's novels.

"As an Austen enthusiast, I found the course perfect, but I'd suggest knowing her major novels beforehand."

"The course assumes you've read some of her works, which helped me follow the more detailed discussions."

"I felt the most benefit from this course because I already had a good grasp of her literary output."

The course modules are organized clearly, making learning easy.

"The course was very well-organized, with each week building logically on the previous one."

"I found the material presented in bite-sized, manageable chunks, which was great for my schedule."

"The lectures and readings flowed seamlessly, making for a very coherent learning experience."

Explores unique aspects of Austen's legacy beyond literary works.

"I loved how the course delved into the marketing and global influence of Jane Austen, not just her books."

"It was fascinating to learn about Austen's afterlives in film and TV; I hadn't considered that before."

"This course offered a truly unique perspective, covering her celebrity and impact worldwide."

The instructor's expertise and passion made the course captivating.

"The professor's expertise and enthusiasm for Jane Austen made every lecture truly enjoyable."

"I really appreciated the instructor's clear explanations and her ability to bring the topics to life."

"Her passion for the subject was infectious; I learned so much more than I expected."

Career center

Learners who complete Jane Austen: Myth, Reality and Global Celebrity will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Jane Austen

Myth, Reality and Global Celebrity

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Jane austen's global impact explored

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