John Aboud

Jane Austen (1775-1817) was an English novelist. Her subtle depictions of women's lives and her witty, ironic style earned her great success as a female writer and author. Born in Steventon, Hampshire in 1775, she received some education through a relative in Oxford in 1783, continued her studies in Southampton, and finally attended Abbey School in Reading, Berkshire, a school for girls. She began writing novels in 1789. In 1802, she received a marriage proposal from a man she described as 'large and awkward', named Tom Lefroy, but declined. This was due to family objections and the need to elope; however, Jane learned at the last minute that Tom had many siblings and was staying with his uncle, sharing the allowance he received. If they had married, Tom would not have received this allowance and could not share it with them. After her father's death in 1805, she moved to Southampton. In 1809, she moved to Chawton to live with her wealthy brother. Today, this house is a museum and a popular tourist destination.