Fathers in Jane Austen 

The fathers in Jane Austen’s novels generally play a key role in the destinies of their daughters, often leaving them dependent upon their individual foibles and character. The failures and weaknesses displayed by these men are often integral to the situations of the women in the novels. What does this say about the merits of male inheritance and power in Jane Austen’s world?
Recorded from a Zoom presentation, the morning featured a series of talks and fun activities, as presenters discussed father figures in the novels, debated the best and worst, examined paternal roles and responsibilities, and explored individual shortcomings and qualities.
Chaired by JASA Meetings Coordinator, Julie Sweeten; other presenters were Dr Penelope Nash, Charles Guillan, Sibylie Burkhardt, Michelle Cavanagh, Cheryl Hill, Harriet Jordan, Judy Stove, Jan Merriman and Susannah Fullerton.