Jane Austen's Imagery

An analysis of the imagery and symbolism used by Jane Austen in her novels "Emma", "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility".

3,618 words () | 7 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how Jane Austen effectively uses literary devices in her novels "Emma", "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility" and how, in these literary works, Austen uses the devices of imagery and symbolism. The paper further relates that Austen also heightens the effects of her novels by creating effective themes and that she makes her themes in these novels clear by using the mistakes of her heroines to teach the reader about life. In addition, the paper explains that the reader is made to realize these mistakes through Austen's use of characterization, imagery, and symbolism. Thus, through her novels, Austen teaches the reader about marriage, excessive pride and excessive prejudice.

From the Paper:

"Another of Austen's comic characters is also used to present imagery. After the youngest daughter, Lydia, elopes with Mr. Wickham, Mary Bennet, the third and most pompous sister, whispers to Elizabeth "This is a most unfortunate affair; and will probably be much talked of. By we must stem the tide of malice, and pour into the wounded bosoms of each other the balm of sisterly consolation" (Austen P&P 214). Mary continuously says silly things in an attempt to appear more attractive; she is a very plain girl. Mary does not enjoy society as her sisters do. She prefers to sit at home and read or play the piano. She is always offering out of place and absurd comments to her family. This image of Mary accurately portrays her as a source of embarrassment and headache to her entire family. She is, in her way, a female Mr. Collins."

Sample of Sources Used:

Austen, Jane. Emma. New York: Bantam Books, 1981.
Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. New York: Bantam Books, 1981.
Austen, Jane. Sense and Sensibility. New York: Bantam Books, 1983.
Brown, Lloyd Wellesley. Bits of Ivory. Baton Rouge: LA: Louisiana State University Press, 1973.
Halperin, John, ed. Jane Austen - Bicentenary Essays. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1975.