Reading Jane Austen

Harriet and Ellen
  • 4.8 (75)
  • BOOKS

Ellen and Harriet are a mother and daughter who have been talking about Jane Austen together since Harriet was first old enough to read her. In this podcast, we will be doing a close reading of the books.In each episode, we will look at a few chapters. As well as talking about anything that strikes us in the chapters, we will also pick a favourite sentence, have a discussion about one of the characters, and then Ellen will give a social historian perspective about some element of the nineteenth century that seems pertinent, and Harriet will talk about the chapters in pop culture adaptations of the book.

  1. S05E10 Persuasion, Chapter 22

    JAN 19

    S05E10 Persuasion, Chapter 22

    In this episode we look at the published version of Chapter 22. We talk about how proactive Anne is in these final chapters, the arrival of Charles, Mary and the Musgrove clan, Louisa’s change in personality, how the Musgroves all want Anne to be with them, and the first time Wentworth actually refers to the time he and Anne were together. The characters we discuss is are Charles and Mary Musgrove. In the historical section, Michael talks about the shooting, and for popular culture Harriet looks at two books that retell Persuasion from the point of view of another character. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Sheila Kaye-Smith and G.B. Stern, Talking of Jane Austen (1943) and More Talk of Jane Austen (1950)Historical discussion: E. W. Bovill, English Country Life, 1780-1830 (1962) ‘The Thing About Willoughby’s Pointers with guest Dr. Stephanie Howard-Smith‘, The Thing About Austen podcast, Episode 73Popular culture discussion: Amanda Grange, Captain Wentworth’s Diary (2007)Dorothea-Sofia Rossellini, Mrs Clay: The Austen Expert’s Companion to ‘Persuasion’ (2016) Diana Birchall, In Defense of Mrs Elton (1999) Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio.Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP.Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen.Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen.Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

    57 min
  2. S05E09 Persuasion, Chapter 21 and the cancelled Chapter 22

    12/26/2025

    S05E09 Persuasion, Chapter 21 and the cancelled Chapter 22

    In this much-delayed episode (recorded months ago, but stuck in editing limbo), we look at Chapter 21, and the original version of Chapter 22, which Jane Austen rewrote before publication to become the Chapters 22 and 23 we now have. This cancelled chapter is available in many modern editions of the book. We talk about Mrs Smith’s infodump about Mr Elliot, her change in tone, her patronising attitude towards Nurse Rooke, how in the cancelled chapter Anne was more of an observer (compared to the much better final version where she has regained her voice), and the fact that the cancelled chapter is unpolished, and even if Jane Austen had retained that, it would still have been improved before publication. The character we discuss is Mr Elliot. In the historical section, Michael talks about the engagements, and for popular culture Harriet reflects on the various film adaptations of Persuasion, considering some of the characters, as well as how each adaptation deals with three key scenes (presenting the backstory, Louisa’s fall, and the scene at the White Hart Inn). Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Paul Wray, ‘Persuasion: Why the Revised Ending Works So Well’, Persuasions Online (2017), Volume 38, No. 1, Winter 2017.Historical discussion: Rory Muir, Love and Marriage in the Age of Jane Austen (2024)Popular culture discussion: Podcast Into the AustenverseBBC, Persuasion (1971) – starring Ann Firbank and Bryan Marshall. Watch on YouTube: Part 1 and Part 2TVE, Novela: Persuasión (1972) – starring Maite Blasco and Juan DiegoWatch on YouTubeBBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán HindsWatch on YouTubeClerkenwell Films, Persuasion (2007) – starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-JonesWatch on YouTubeNetflix, Persuasion (2022) – starring Dakota Johnson and Cosmo JarvisLouisa’s fall from the Cobb (this YouTube video shows the same scene from the 1971, 1995, 2007 and 2022 adaptations of Persuasion) For a list of music used, see this episode on our website.

    1 hr
  3. S05E08 Persuasion, Chapters 19 to 20

    10/07/2025

    S05E08 Persuasion, Chapters 19 to 20

    In this episode, we talk about private communications in public spaces, Wentworth’s possible feelings in the encounter at Mollands and in the Assembly Room, the question of whether Lady Russell was legitimately trying to identify a set of curtains, and Anne’s feelings towards Mr Elliot. The character we discuss is Elizabeth Elliot. In the historical section, Michael talks about the Bath Assembly Rooms, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2023 independent film Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Historical discussion: Blackadder the Third (1987)YouTube video: Dr Timothy Moore, ‘Change & Challenge: The History of Bath’s Assembly Rooms‘, Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 30 July 2024Assembly Rooms floorplan (Source: http://www.victoriahinshaw.com/victorias-vibes—-a-blog/archives/05-2019)Popular culture discussion: Persuasion (2023, Agatha Films) – starring Skylar Pierce and Dan BrownCreative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio.Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP.Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen.Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen.Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

    56 min
  4. S05E07 Persuasion, Chapters 16 to 18

    08/25/2025

    S05E07 Persuasion, Chapters 16 to 18

    In this episode, we talk about the upward and downward social interactions taking place, what the implications are behind the Dalrymples being Irish aristocracy, the introductions of Mrs Smith and Nurse Rooke, the comedy of Mary’s letter and Admiral Croft’s meeting with Anne, and the fact that in the book’s timeline it is only a month before Napoleon Bonaparte will escape from Elba. The characters we discuss are Admiral and Mrs Croft. In the historical section, Ellen talks about nurses, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2020 television movie Modern Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Maria Edgeworth, Castle Rackrent (1800)Character discussion: Walter Scott, Waverley (1814)Patrick O’Brien, Master and Commander (1969) and sequels in the Aubrey and Maturin seriesHistorical discussion: Charles Dickens, Martin Chuzzlewit (1844)Elizabeth Fry (19th century English prison reformer, social reformer, philanthropist and Quaker)Wellcome Collection in LondonPopular culture discussion: Modern Persuasion (2020, Tangerine Entertainment) – starring Alicia Witt and Shane McRaeCreative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio.Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP.Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen.Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen.Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

    1 hr
  5. S05E06 Persuasion, Chapters 13 to 15

    06/16/2025

    S05E06 Persuasion, Chapters 13 to 15

    In this episode, we talk about these transitional chapters between the events at Lyme and the move to Bath. We consider the position of the old nurse in the Musgrove household, how Anne is feeling a bit sorry for herself, the delightful scenes with the Crofts and with Charles and Mary, how Mr Elliot is described as ‘underhung’, and the way Anne and Mr Elliot get on well with each other. The characters we discuss are Mr and Mrs Musgrove. In the historical section, Ellen talks about Bath, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2019 YouTube series Rational Creatures. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Noel Streatfeild, Gran-Nannie (1976) and Ballet Shoes (1936)Novels of Charlotte M. YongeEvelyn Waugh, Brideshead Revisited (1945)Alexander Pope, ‘The Rape of the Lock‘ (1712)Historical discussion: The Venerable Bede (c.672-735)Nennius (9th century Welsh monk)Google map of locations in Persuasion, zoomed in on BathPopular culture discussion: Rational Creatures (2019, YouTube) – starring Kristina Pupo and Peter GiesslHarriet’s interview with the creators of Rational CreaturesCreative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio.Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP.Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen.Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen.Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

    1 hr
  6. S05E05 Persuasion, Chapters 11 and 12

    04/28/2025

    S05E05 Persuasion, Chapters 11 and 12

    In this episode, we talk about Lyme, the connection between Anne and Captain Benwick, whether these chapters make us wonder if Anne will end up with someone other than Captain Wentworth, and Louisa’s fall from the steps. The characters we discuss are Captains Harville and Benwick. In the historical section, Ellen talks about romantic poetry, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2022 Netflix film adaptation of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Samuel Johnson, The Rambler (periodical, published 1750-1752)Dr John GregoryHester ChaponeStairs on the CobbThe stairs closest to the shore (used in the 1971 adaptation)The middle set of stairs, known as ‘Granny’s teeth’ (used in the 1995 adaptation)The third set of stairs (used in the 2007 and 2022 adaptations)Google map of the steps on the Cobb For a list of references in the Historical and Popular culture sections, see this episode on our website.

    1 hr
  7. S05E04 Persuasion, Chapters 9 and 10

    03/18/2025

    S05E04 Persuasion, Chapters 9 and 10

    In this episode, we talk about how how Jane Austen has solved the problem of the infodump, the realism of the scene with little Walter, how she shows the relations within families, and how events on the walk to Winthrop affect Wentworth’s feelings. The characters we discuss are Louisa and Henrietta Musgrove. In the historical section, Ellen talks about curates, and for popular culture Harriet discusses the 2007 ITV film adaptation of Persuasion. Things we mention: General discussion: Janet Todd and Antje Blank [Editors], The Cambridge Edition of the Works of Jane Austen: Persuasion (2006)Maria Edgeworth (reference in the Persuasion footnotes is to A Memoir of Maria Edgeworth with a Selection from her Letters (1867), vold. 2, pp. 5-6.)Character discussion: Irene Collins, Jane Austen and the Clergy (2002)Historical discussion: Anthony Trollope, The Last Chronicle of Barset (1867)Stipendiary Curate Act 1713 Popular culture discussion: Clerkenwell Films, Persuasion (2007) – starring Sally Hawkins and Rupert Penry-JonesWatch on YouTubeStairs on the Cobb (photo)Louisa’s fall (this YouTube video shows the same scene from four different adaptations of Persuasion)Creative commons music used: Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio.Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP.Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen.Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen.Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

    1 hr
  8. S05E03.5 Persuasion, EXTRAS from Chapters 7 and 8

    02/17/2025

    S05E03.5 Persuasion, EXTRAS from Chapters 7 and 8

    This is an in-between ‘extras’ episode. Our episodes are normally not more than an hour in length, which means that we usually have to cut a certain amount of material in the editing. But for Episode 3, we had much more material than usual. So we kept the episode down to an hour, but decided to release an ‘extras’ episode, with some of the bits we edited out. It’s a bit disjointed, but we hope you enjoy it. THINGS WE MENTION Character discussion: Sheila Kaye-Smith and G.B. Stern, Talking of Jane Austen (1943) and More Talk of Jane Austen (1950)Historical discussion: The Aubrey & Maturin novels of Patrick O’BrienAdmiral Thomas Cochrane (1775-1860)Popular culture discussion: BBC Film, Persuasion (1995) – starring Amanda Root and Ciarán HindsThe Bounty (1984)CREATIVE COMMONS MUSIC USED Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 12 in F Major, ii. Adagio.Extract from Joseph Haydn, Piano Sonata No. 38. Performance by Ivan Ilić, recorded in Manchester in December, 2006. File originally from IMSLP.Extract from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Sonata No. 13 in B-Flat Major, iii. Allegretto Grazioso. File originally from Musopen.Extract from George Frideric Handel, Suite I, No. 2 in F Major, ii. Allegro. File originally from Musopen.Extract from Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 28 in A major. File originally from Musopen.

    26 min
See All (57)

Trailer

4.8
out of 5
75 Ratings

About

Ellen and Harriet are a mother and daughter who have been talking about Jane Austen together since Harriet was first old enough to read her. In this podcast, we will be doing a close reading of the books.In each episode, we will look at a few chapters. As well as talking about anything that strikes us in the chapters, we will also pick a favourite sentence, have a discussion about one of the characters, and then Ellen will give a social historian perspective about some element of the nineteenth century that seems pertinent, and Harriet will talk about the chapters in pop culture adaptations of the book.

Information

  • Creator
    Harriet and Ellen
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Reading Jane Austen
  • Show Website
    Reading Jane Austen

You Might Also Like