This year is a special one for Jane Austen fans, marking 250 years since the birth of the beloved novelist. Born on December 16, 1775, Austen was the seventh of the eight children of Reverend George Austen and Cassandra Leigh and went on to become one of the most famous writers in history. In a time when women were expected to marry, bear children, and manage the household, Austen believed marriage should be a consequence of love rather than a means to material security. Through her own refusal to conform to societal expectations, and through her writing, Jane laid the groundwork for future feminists to challenge societal norms and advocate for women’s independence, education, and personal choice.
This gallery is dedicated to celebrating all things Austen—her wit, her writing, and the unforgettable characters that have been brought to life countless times on screen. Click to get started.