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The Jane Austen Handbook: A Sensible Yet Elegant Guide to Her World
Jane Austen published her first novel in 1811, but today she's more popular than ever. Film adaptations of her books are nominated for Academy Awards. Chick lit bestsellers are based on her plots. And a new biopic of Austen herself Becoming Jane arrives in theaters this spring.
For all those readers who dream about living in Regency England, The Jane Austen Handbook offers step-by-step instructions for proper comportment in the early nineteenth century. You'll discover:
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing
Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living.
For all those readers who dream about living in Regency England, The Jane Austen Handbook offers step-by-step instructions for proper comportment in the early nineteenth century. You'll discover:
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing
Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published February 25, 2011
113 people are currently reading
3146 people want to read
About the author
Margaret C. Sullivan
8 books73 followersI'm an author, but I'm a reader, too, and my reviews here are from a reader's perspective. I love Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer and don't really consider genre when I'm choosing a book, so my list will be eclectic!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
April 28, 2020
This thin book certainly fleshes out the Regency period and codifies much of what goes on beneath the plots of Austen’s novels.
What also aids the reader is how Sullivan has divided up her observations on manners, tasks, and responsibilities. It could also have been titled: “How the Gentry can Achieve Success in Regency England” Perhaps, it would be helpful to define Jane Austen’s “gentry.” The best working definition that I have come across notes that the gentry straddled the “aristocracy and the bourgeois middle class."
This book ostensibly offers advice to the upwardly mobile of the gentry including: "It is a truth universally acknowledged that in this world there are haves and have-nots. Some are born to marry a man with ten thousand a year and have jewels and pin money second to none; some are destined to teach that woman’s children and be patronized by her servants. In the sad event that you are forced to seek employment, here are a few acceptable ways for you to do so. All are ill-paid and unpleasant in their own way and should be avoided if at all possible."
There is an emphasis on women’s concerns but not to the exclusion of the male gentry. And, of course, many of the observations applied to all.
Medical concerns were handled quite differently at that period.
Both in the “science:” "In the Regency, medical practitioners believe diseases are caused by an imbalance in the body’s four humors (blood, black bile, yellow bile, and phlegm). Obtaining relief or curing disease is simply a matter of determining which humor is in excess and relieving the imbalance through one of the following methods."
And in the actual practice of “medicine:” "Physician: As a gentleman, he was unable to touch the patient or do anything active on the patient’s behalf—gentlemen, after all, did not work. Physicians were educated at one of the universities and then attended medical school or trained with another physician."
One of the things that comes through this book (and is derived from Austen) is that appearance determined so much of gentry life at this point in time. Here is just one example: "Gloves. Wear gloves outside at all times for warmth and protection, even in summer; you do not want your hands tanned or freckled as though you work in the fields."
Plenty of details on everything from sewing stitches to underwear. And,some helpful references to the periods before and after Regency.
"Walking dresses: A walking dress is like a riding habit, but with fancier trim and worn with a regular bonnet."
"Dinner. 3–5 P.M. in the country; 6–7 P.M. or later if following “town hours” in very fashionable households. Tea. An hour after dinner. This is not the formal meal it became in Victorian times. One might be invited to a house not to dine but only to “drink tea,” which means arriving after dinner for tea, coffee, and perhaps cake."
And etiquette: "When paying a morning call, it is impolite to leave one’s hat or walking stick anywhere in the house, lest one be suspected of planning to overstay one’s welcome."
This Handbook pulls together many threads from the Austen novels. But, even if you aren’t interested in those books, this is a very valuable supplement to history or historical novels of the Regency period. 4.5*
What also aids the reader is how Sullivan has divided up her observations on manners, tasks, and responsibilities. It could also have been titled: “How the Gentry can Achieve Success in Regency England” Perhaps, it would be helpful to define Jane Austen’s “gentry.” The best working definition that I have come across notes that the gentry straddled the “aristocracy and the bourgeois middle class."
This book ostensibly offers advice to the upwardly mobile of the gentry including: "It is a truth universally acknowledged that in this world there are haves and have-nots. Some are born to marry a man with ten thousand a year and have jewels and pin money second to none; some are destined to teach that woman’s children and be patronized by her servants. In the sad event that you are forced to seek employment, here are a few acceptable ways for you to do so. All are ill-paid and unpleasant in their own way and should be avoided if at all possible."
There is an emphasis on women’s concerns but not to the exclusion of the male gentry. And, of course, many of the observations applied to all.
Medical concerns were handled quite differently at that period.
Both in the “science:” "In the Regency, medical practitioners believe diseases are caused by an imbalance in the body’s four humors (blood, black bile, yellow bile, and phlegm). Obtaining relief or curing disease is simply a matter of determining which humor is in excess and relieving the imbalance through one of the following methods."
And in the actual practice of “medicine:” "Physician: As a gentleman, he was unable to touch the patient or do anything active on the patient’s behalf—gentlemen, after all, did not work. Physicians were educated at one of the universities and then attended medical school or trained with another physician."
One of the things that comes through this book (and is derived from Austen) is that appearance determined so much of gentry life at this point in time. Here is just one example: "Gloves. Wear gloves outside at all times for warmth and protection, even in summer; you do not want your hands tanned or freckled as though you work in the fields."
Plenty of details on everything from sewing stitches to underwear. And,some helpful references to the periods before and after Regency.
"Walking dresses: A walking dress is like a riding habit, but with fancier trim and worn with a regular bonnet."
"Dinner. 3–5 P.M. in the country; 6–7 P.M. or later if following “town hours” in very fashionable households. Tea. An hour after dinner. This is not the formal meal it became in Victorian times. One might be invited to a house not to dine but only to “drink tea,” which means arriving after dinner for tea, coffee, and perhaps cake."
And etiquette: "When paying a morning call, it is impolite to leave one’s hat or walking stick anywhere in the house, lest one be suspected of planning to overstay one’s welcome."
This Handbook pulls together many threads from the Austen novels. But, even if you aren’t interested in those books, this is a very valuable supplement to history or historical novels of the Regency period. 4.5*
March 28, 2018
I came across this rather cute little hardback entirely accidentally. The cover is gorgeous, it's a handy size, and it's all about Jane Austen and her world. What more do I need?
If you think that you are going to be sent to sleep with lots of information regarding the regency period, then you are mistaken. This book contains interesting information about the period, much of it, I admit to not knowing about. There are tasty snippets of fun facts, if you like, about Jane Austen novels. I was rather interested to learn of the original titles of "Sense and Sensibility" and "Pride and Prejudice" Sense and Sensibility is in fact, probably my favourite Austen novel. Throughout the handbook, there are beautiful quotes from Austen's works, that I enjoyed reading immensely.
The book is split up into four, well laid out sections and in these we are taken through the rather private and social lives of the people that exist in Austen's novels.
I have noticed, in several reviews on here, that many people think that this book is entirely for women, but I definitely disagree. This book is for males and females alike, and I believe men could get just as much out of this read, as women.
If you think that you are going to be sent to sleep with lots of information regarding the regency period, then you are mistaken. This book contains interesting information about the period, much of it, I admit to not knowing about. There are tasty snippets of fun facts, if you like, about Jane Austen novels. I was rather interested to learn of the original titles of "Sense and Sensibility" and "Pride and Prejudice" Sense and Sensibility is in fact, probably my favourite Austen novel. Throughout the handbook, there are beautiful quotes from Austen's works, that I enjoyed reading immensely.
The book is split up into four, well laid out sections and in these we are taken through the rather private and social lives of the people that exist in Austen's novels.
I have noticed, in several reviews on here, that many people think that this book is entirely for women, but I definitely disagree. This book is for males and females alike, and I believe men could get just as much out of this read, as women.
April 10, 2018
This is a must read for every Janeite and JAFF reader. The author takes us on a delightful visit to Jane Austen's England and gives us the tools to survive the visit. You won't need your mosquito netting, but you will need a netting needle and a your dancing slippers.
By using excepts and examples from JA's books she makes the trip fun and fancy free.
If reading on the Kindle the content seems to end at 77% but close the rating page and read on in the excellent and well researched appendix.
By using excepts and examples from JA's books she makes the trip fun and fancy free.
If reading on the Kindle the content seems to end at 77% but close the rating page and read on in the excellent and well researched appendix.
January 5, 2012
I liked about 40% of this book. Because 40% of it is interesting content about the world and social mores that Jane Austen's characters inhabited. 60% of it pretends to be that, but is actually slightly sarcastic lists that are essentially cribbed from Austen's book plots, rather than being factual serious content about the Regency period.
If you are looking for that kind of content, don't read this. Instead, get the Annotated Pride and Prejudice by David Shaphard - much better. http://www.amazon.ca/Annotated-Pride-... (ooo .. it looks like he's coming out with a new edition in Sept of this year - yay!!)
If, however, you are looking for a cheeky take on Regency life and like to feel smart because you get all the inside jokes and author makes, then this one is for you. It's not a bad book, but you do need to understand what it is and what it isn't - and it is not a historical guide to the Regency period.
If you are looking for that kind of content, don't read this. Instead, get the Annotated Pride and Prejudice by David Shaphard - much better. http://www.amazon.ca/Annotated-Pride-... (ooo .. it looks like he's coming out with a new edition in Sept of this year - yay!!)
If, however, you are looking for a cheeky take on Regency life and like to feel smart because you get all the inside jokes and author makes, then this one is for you. It's not a bad book, but you do need to understand what it is and what it isn't - and it is not a historical guide to the Regency period.
March 16, 2011
Imagine that you were Amanda Price from Lost in Austen or Courtney Stone from Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict and you found yourself inexplicably transported to the time period of Jane Austen's novels. Would you be able to pass yourself off as a Regency heroine? Or would your ignorance of Regency manners and mores leave you to be a scorned and shunned outcast? Would you know the proper way to decline an unwanted marriage proposal or how to indicate interest in a gentleman without seeming forward?
Best to be prepared for these sorts of things, you never know when you might wake up and find yourself in the pages of an Austen novel!
Want to read more? Go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
Best to be prepared for these sorts of things, you never know when you might wake up and find yourself in the pages of an Austen novel!
Want to read more? Go to: http://janeaustenreviews.blogspot.com...
January 4, 2019
The biggest problem with this book is that it adds very little original research and depends very heavily on Jane Austen's works. Advice such as, "offer to mend his pen" or "read the second volume of whatever book he is reading" might do very well for Miss Bingley, but I was hoping for examples outside of Austen's own characters. (Plus, it seems very weird to me that you would give advice more suited to Miss Bingley or Mrs. Bennett than an actual Regency miss but...whatever.)
Some interesting tidbits poke through, such as the time for meals and role of each of servant, but nothing I did not already know. (Admittedly, I know more than your average reader about Jane Austen and the Regency era in general because I am a bit obsessive.)
The only redeeming element of this work is that the author clearly loves Jane Austen. Perhaps this book would be better as an introduction to the era and her works? It certainly does not add much if you already are comfortable sitting down for tea with Mrs. Darcy.
Some interesting tidbits poke through, such as the time for meals and role of each of servant, but nothing I did not already know. (Admittedly, I know more than your average reader about Jane Austen and the Regency era in general because I am a bit obsessive.)
The only redeeming element of this work is that the author clearly loves Jane Austen. Perhaps this book would be better as an introduction to the era and her works? It certainly does not add much if you already are comfortable sitting down for tea with Mrs. Darcy.
July 20, 2021
The sole reason I picked this up was for a challenge where I needed to read a "regency" related book. I tried a pure history book, and while I finish almost every book I start, I just couldn't make myself.
This light, short book seemed like just the ticket. The frame is that the reader is an aspiring social climber during the Regency times, and this book advises her on attire, etiquette, love, etc. It's cute and sometimes witty. But often, the author breaks the premise and references modern times. At the end of the book is a mini bio of Jane Austen as well as a bibliography of her books with descriptions.
I am sure Jane Austen fans might like this one, though it is a bit superficial. I liked learning some of the period aspects that I didn't know, but I feel like someone who is really immersed in the regency era would find it trite.
This light, short book seemed like just the ticket. The frame is that the reader is an aspiring social climber during the Regency times, and this book advises her on attire, etiquette, love, etc. It's cute and sometimes witty. But often, the author breaks the premise and references modern times. At the end of the book is a mini bio of Jane Austen as well as a bibliography of her books with descriptions.
I am sure Jane Austen fans might like this one, though it is a bit superficial. I liked learning some of the period aspects that I didn't know, but I feel like someone who is really immersed in the regency era would find it trite.
February 18, 2023
Jane Austen published her first novel in 1811, but today she's more popular than ever. Film adaptations of her books are nominated for Academy Awards. Chick lit bestsellers are based on her plots. And a new biopic of Austen herself Becoming Jane arrives in theaters this spring.
For all those readers who dream about living in Regency England, The Jane Austen Handbook offers step-by-step instructions for proper comportment in the early nineteenth century. You'll discover:
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing
Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living.
For all those readers who dream about living in Regency England, The Jane Austen Handbook offers step-by-step instructions for proper comportment in the early nineteenth century. You'll discover:
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing
Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living.
August 28, 2023
3.5🌟
Audiobook (narrated by Corrie James)
For anyone who loves the Regency era and Jane Austen books in particular, this books enlightens on courtship and card games and balls and much more.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/enjoyed it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
Audiobook (narrated by Corrie James)
For anyone who loves the Regency era and Jane Austen books in particular, this books enlightens on courtship and card games and balls and much more.
Robin’s Ratings
5🌟 = Out of this world. Amazing. Unforgettable. A personal favorite.
4🌟 = Loved/enjoyed it. Will recommend to others.
3🌟 = Liked it. Glad I read it. Engaging/entertaining/interesting.
2🌟 = The book was okay, but I’ve enjoyed other books so much more.
1🌟 = For whatever reason, I didn’t like it and can’t recommend it.
March 14, 2011
If you plan to time travel to Regency as it happens to Amanda Price (Jemima Rooper) in Lost in Austen or to Courtney Stone in Laurie Viera Rigler's Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict , you'd better read this highly informative THE JANE AUSTEN HANDBOOK by Margaret C. Sullivan before leaving. Especially the "How to Become an Accomplished Lady" section, in which you are suggested a store of accomplishments of no practical use, therefore, quite attractive to gentlemen. Then, you can't miss the "How to Identify the Quality" or "How to ensure a Good Yearly Income" sections , where you learn to choose your company - and even your husband-to-be - according to birth, education, manners and rank as well as to ensure an income that will keep you in the common necessaries of life.
Don't you plan to take a step from our frantic, highly technological 21st century?
You'll find this handbook very useful , anyway, in order to escape our crazy rhythms and consequent troubles, at least: advice is provided as to decline an unwanted proposal, carry on a secret engagement (read "affair" nowadays ), to get your "him" back after you have quarrelled, how to behave at a formal dinner party and so on.
Jokes apart, this lovely handbook is a must in any Janeite book collection. It must be on your Austen shelf! It is a precious object, cute and pretty to look at, but it is especially a witty, amusing way to have a glimpse into day-to-day life in Jane Austen's time. THE JANE AUSTEN HANDBOOK is perfect companion for fans of her novels and their film adaptations, complete with detail information on love among the social classes, currency, dress and nuances of graceful living.
Aren't you curious to spot all the hypochondriacs in Jane Austen's novels? Hilarious.To elope to Scotland? So adventurous! To learn all the secrets to be successful at an elegant Regency ball? Dreamy! Aren't you finding a way to get rid of unwanted guests? At last! Just get hold of this little treasureable handbook and you'll be ready to cope with all that and to enjoy your Austenesque reads even more!
This is also a perfect gift for a Janeite friend or a romantic young niece/daughter to incline toward Austen world, terrific for Mother's Day.
Margaret C. Sullivan
Don't you plan to take a step from our frantic, highly technological 21st century?
You'll find this handbook very useful , anyway, in order to escape our crazy rhythms and consequent troubles, at least: advice is provided as to decline an unwanted proposal, carry on a secret engagement (read "affair" nowadays ), to get your "him" back after you have quarrelled, how to behave at a formal dinner party and so on.
Jokes apart, this lovely handbook is a must in any Janeite book collection. It must be on your Austen shelf! It is a precious object, cute and pretty to look at, but it is especially a witty, amusing way to have a glimpse into day-to-day life in Jane Austen's time. THE JANE AUSTEN HANDBOOK is perfect companion for fans of her novels and their film adaptations, complete with detail information on love among the social classes, currency, dress and nuances of graceful living.
Aren't you curious to spot all the hypochondriacs in Jane Austen's novels? Hilarious.To elope to Scotland? So adventurous! To learn all the secrets to be successful at an elegant Regency ball? Dreamy! Aren't you finding a way to get rid of unwanted guests? At last! Just get hold of this little treasureable handbook and you'll be ready to cope with all that and to enjoy your Austenesque reads even more!
This is also a perfect gift for a Janeite friend or a romantic young niece/daughter to incline toward Austen world, terrific for Mother's Day.
Margaret C. Sullivan
August 19, 2009
I love Sullivan's fanfiction P&P/Northanger Abbey crossover, The Firstborn, so this purchase is my royalty payment. Handbook is fun and has an entertaining arch tone, but I didn’t find it terribly educational; many of her lists are simply examples drawn from Austen’s books, rather than supporting material showing that these really are the customs of Austen’s time. It’s cute, but honestly, if I’d read it at the library, that would’ve sufficed.
October 14, 2018
In this age of information most of us Janeits have probably googled fortnight, pheaton, Pump Room, and many other Regency "things" at one time or another. As such, we aren't going to learn much nee information in this book but it hardly matters. The author is as witty as Jane herself and takes pains to make direct correlations to Jane Austen's novels making this a truly enjoyable read even if the information is old hat. I particularly enjoyed the authors dry sense of humor. She pokes as much fun at Regency society as Austen did. Highly recommended to all fans of Austen!
March 11, 2019
fun quick read!
Very entertaining if you are a Jane Austen fan!
Very entertaining if you are a Jane Austen fan!
August 31, 2011
Informative, impertinent and indispensable - a fun how-to book for any unaccomplished young lady
Filled with pertinent facts that every Regency Miss should be aware of to become truly accomplished, it is easy for us to recommend this great little how-to book to our readers because we have used it personally over the past four years whenever we had a question regarding deportment, dancing, playing an instrument, frock shopping and making love (in the Regency context mind you) – the top five most critical social aspects to any young Regency ladies life. One can also throw in letter writing, entertaining house guests and managing a household and just about anything else our dear Austen heroines Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, Elizabeth Bennet, Emma Woodhouse or Anne Elliot already know that might qualify them as a truly accomplished young lady in Mr. Darcy’s eyes. We shall not add Catherine Morland and Fanny Price into the mix. They are exceptions to the rule and shall be forgiven their lack of education, and might well benefit from this slim volume.
Besides being wise, this volume is also very witty, and that is where we take full enjoyment of its tongue-in-cheek manner. Who would not want to know how to choose a prospective husband (What? They do not choose us? Is that not the unspoken belief among all beaux?), how to decline an unwanted marriage proposal (Lizzy Bennet might offer some advice to Fanny Price on this too!), carry off a secret engagement (Lucy Steele and Jane Fairfax would benefit from modern Prozac no doubt), or elope to Gretna Green (Lydia Bennet FAIL). There are also other tidbits that really made us laugh too. Each page turn brought more delightful and humorous illustrations by Kathryn Rathke and informative vignettes of examples from Jane Austen’s novels like: Who Died and Made Mr. Collins the Heir of Longbourn? or the Worst (and Funniest) Proposals in Jane Austen’s Novels. *snort*
Informative, impertinent and indispensable, The Jane Austen Handbook is a must have for anyone eager to understand anything from the obvious to the nuanced differences of society in Regency England. Lest we think this frivolous fare, it also contains a brief, but well-written bio of Jane Austen, summaries of the major novels and minor works, a glossary, a list of modern film adaptions through 2007, resources online: websites and blogs (we are forgotten, *sniff*), Austen societies, Austen places to visit, libraries and archives, and a select bibliography. Lastly, we know that Mary Bennet would happily offer her pedantic stamp of approval of this volume because it contains a full index for ease of access to Janeites on the fast track to becoming truly accomplished.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
Filled with pertinent facts that every Regency Miss should be aware of to become truly accomplished, it is easy for us to recommend this great little how-to book to our readers because we have used it personally over the past four years whenever we had a question regarding deportment, dancing, playing an instrument, frock shopping and making love (in the Regency context mind you) – the top five most critical social aspects to any young Regency ladies life. One can also throw in letter writing, entertaining house guests and managing a household and just about anything else our dear Austen heroines Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, Elizabeth Bennet, Emma Woodhouse or Anne Elliot already know that might qualify them as a truly accomplished young lady in Mr. Darcy’s eyes. We shall not add Catherine Morland and Fanny Price into the mix. They are exceptions to the rule and shall be forgiven their lack of education, and might well benefit from this slim volume.
Besides being wise, this volume is also very witty, and that is where we take full enjoyment of its tongue-in-cheek manner. Who would not want to know how to choose a prospective husband (What? They do not choose us? Is that not the unspoken belief among all beaux?), how to decline an unwanted marriage proposal (Lizzy Bennet might offer some advice to Fanny Price on this too!), carry off a secret engagement (Lucy Steele and Jane Fairfax would benefit from modern Prozac no doubt), or elope to Gretna Green (Lydia Bennet FAIL). There are also other tidbits that really made us laugh too. Each page turn brought more delightful and humorous illustrations by Kathryn Rathke and informative vignettes of examples from Jane Austen’s novels like: Who Died and Made Mr. Collins the Heir of Longbourn? or the Worst (and Funniest) Proposals in Jane Austen’s Novels. *snort*
Informative, impertinent and indispensable, The Jane Austen Handbook is a must have for anyone eager to understand anything from the obvious to the nuanced differences of society in Regency England. Lest we think this frivolous fare, it also contains a brief, but well-written bio of Jane Austen, summaries of the major novels and minor works, a glossary, a list of modern film adaptions through 2007, resources online: websites and blogs (we are forgotten, *sniff*), Austen societies, Austen places to visit, libraries and archives, and a select bibliography. Lastly, we know that Mary Bennet would happily offer her pedantic stamp of approval of this volume because it contains a full index for ease of access to Janeites on the fast track to becoming truly accomplished.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
Read
November 4, 2017Margaret C. Sullivan, editrix of Austenblog.com, has created the perfect book for fans of Jane Austen who would like to know more about life in Regency England. The Jane Austen Handbook is a wonderful companion to Austen’s novels, especially given that Austen’s works feature terms and societal rules/norms that are no longer in vogue. I admit that this book would have come in handy when I read Sanditon and was curious about bathing machines; thankfully, there are a lot of great online resources for Austen fans, but The Jane Austen Handbook packs the basic information into a single volume.
Sullivan groups these Regency facts into four sections and introduces each chapter with a relevant quote from an Austen novel. In the first section, “Jane Austen’s World & Welcome to It,” she discusses what constitutes an accomplished lady, the education of ladies and gentlemen, how to write a letter, and where to travel and what to do while you’re there. Various modes of transportation, including gigs, curricles, and post-chaises, are explained and featured in illustrations. In “A Quick Succession of Busy Nothings; Or, Everyday Activities,” Sullivan covers everything from planning a dinner party and raising children to how to dress for particular times of day and how to assemble the appropriate wardrobe. In “Making Love,” selecting a husband, marrying off your daughter, handling unwanted marriage proposals, and eloping to Scotland are hot topics. The final section, “The Best Company; Or, Social Gatherings,” will tell you everything you need to know about paying a morning call and attending dinner parties and balls.
The Jane Austen Handbook features illustrations of clothing and needlework and detailed descriptions of card games played in Austen’s day, among other fascinating tidbits. For readers seeking more information about Austen, the appendix features a short biography, a summary of Austen’s six novels, and details about the various film adaptations. Websites and other resources for Janites are included as well.
Sullivan writes with humor and an obvious affection for Austen and the world that lives on in her novels. My knowledge of Regency England was very limited, consisting of only what I learned from reading Austen’s novels, so I found this book to be very informative. It was a light, fast read, and just what I needed for the work commute. The Jane Austen Handbook would make the perfect gift for an Austen fan, especially one in need of an easy-to-read and thoroughly entertaining resource to keep nearby when reading (and re-reading) Austen’s works.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Sullivan groups these Regency facts into four sections and introduces each chapter with a relevant quote from an Austen novel. In the first section, “Jane Austen’s World & Welcome to It,” she discusses what constitutes an accomplished lady, the education of ladies and gentlemen, how to write a letter, and where to travel and what to do while you’re there. Various modes of transportation, including gigs, curricles, and post-chaises, are explained and featured in illustrations. In “A Quick Succession of Busy Nothings; Or, Everyday Activities,” Sullivan covers everything from planning a dinner party and raising children to how to dress for particular times of day and how to assemble the appropriate wardrobe. In “Making Love,” selecting a husband, marrying off your daughter, handling unwanted marriage proposals, and eloping to Scotland are hot topics. The final section, “The Best Company; Or, Social Gatherings,” will tell you everything you need to know about paying a morning call and attending dinner parties and balls.
The Jane Austen Handbook features illustrations of clothing and needlework and detailed descriptions of card games played in Austen’s day, among other fascinating tidbits. For readers seeking more information about Austen, the appendix features a short biography, a summary of Austen’s six novels, and details about the various film adaptations. Websites and other resources for Janites are included as well.
Sullivan writes with humor and an obvious affection for Austen and the world that lives on in her novels. My knowledge of Regency England was very limited, consisting of only what I learned from reading Austen’s novels, so I found this book to be very informative. It was a light, fast read, and just what I needed for the work commute. The Jane Austen Handbook would make the perfect gift for an Austen fan, especially one in need of an easy-to-read and thoroughly entertaining resource to keep nearby when reading (and re-reading) Austen’s works.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
November 11, 2016
Very much a "lite" social history. It was not until I read the whole thing that I realised this is probably a collection of the author's blogposts, which explains quite a lot. It's mental popcorn for Austen fans, but it's all very superficial--not a single footnote. If you want depth, look into one of the more scholarly tomes. Sullivan gleans most of her Regency knowledge from Austen's books themselves (and occasionally the film/TV directors' versions).
I get very tired of the "women didn't wear drawers" thing. Everyone seems to forget that women have menstruated since there were women, and then there are...well, fluids and things, with consequent smells and mess. (I'm a woman myself, I know this.) Back in the days when cloth was all they had, I know that at least the high-class women did take the days off, and the "naice" term for it was "being indisposed/unwell" and no questions were asked. (Why do you think all those rich ladies had "sick headaches" that kept them from leaving their rooms for days on end?) Since we know that cloths were indeed all they had, they had to have something to hold them in place. And I refuse to believe that particularly the high-class girls and women would trot about with their yoohoos waving in the breeze! I'm pretty sure that by the early 19th century there would be drawers, or pantalettes, or something. They certainly had them in other places. (Why else do you think the French revolutionaries were called sans culottes--men without drawers?) And another thing: "riding" implied "horse" in those days, and still does among the mounted classes, unless modified by "bicycle", "motorbike" etc. When Ms Sullivan repeatedly used the term "horseback riding", she gave herself away as a non-member of the gentry!
An OK bedtime read, but best read in snippets, not straight through, as it's too fluffy for serious perusal. A huge percentage is a description of the books themselves (crowded with spoilers for anyone who hasn't read them, particularly when she reveals absolutely all of Sense and Sensibility) and the films/TV series. She gets the information from other sources, and beyond "curating content" and reading other people's stuff, you can tell not a lot of personal work went into it. Rather like a highschool term paper.
I get very tired of the "women didn't wear drawers" thing. Everyone seems to forget that women have menstruated since there were women, and then there are...well, fluids and things, with consequent smells and mess. (I'm a woman myself, I know this.) Back in the days when cloth was all they had, I know that at least the high-class women did take the days off, and the "naice" term for it was "being indisposed/unwell" and no questions were asked. (Why do you think all those rich ladies had "sick headaches" that kept them from leaving their rooms for days on end?) Since we know that cloths were indeed all they had, they had to have something to hold them in place. And I refuse to believe that particularly the high-class girls and women would trot about with their yoohoos waving in the breeze! I'm pretty sure that by the early 19th century there would be drawers, or pantalettes, or something. They certainly had them in other places. (Why else do you think the French revolutionaries were called sans culottes--men without drawers?) And another thing: "riding" implied "horse" in those days, and still does among the mounted classes, unless modified by "bicycle", "motorbike" etc. When Ms Sullivan repeatedly used the term "horseback riding", she gave herself away as a non-member of the gentry!
An OK bedtime read, but best read in snippets, not straight through, as it's too fluffy for serious perusal. A huge percentage is a description of the books themselves (crowded with spoilers for anyone who hasn't read them, particularly when she reveals absolutely all of Sense and Sensibility) and the films/TV series. She gets the information from other sources, and beyond "curating content" and reading other people's stuff, you can tell not a lot of personal work went into it. Rather like a highschool term paper.
March 9, 2008
This is a delightful, charming, humorous and informative book, packed with information on Regency England. As the publisher said, this book is "for all those readers who dream about living in Regency England, The Jane Austen Handbook offers step-by-step instructions for proper comportment in the early nineteenth century. You'll discover:
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing
Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living."
You'll also learn just how rich Darcy really was and how much he would be worth today. I thought Sullivan explained entail better than anything else I have ever read about the subject. I feel like I finally understand entail and the hows and whys of its use.
All of the little day to day things that made up the life of the landed gentry during Austen's life time are covered. The writing is light and easy, less scholarly and more fun but just as informative and accurate as a more scholarly book.
I loved the tongue-in-cheek references to the novels that are found throughout the book. I found this approach humorous and enjoyable and almost felt like I was sharing an inside joke between myself, Margaret Sullivan and Jane Austen. For example, when writing about child rearing, Sullivan wrote that "if all else fails, liberal slices of cake solve many child-rearing problems." Could she be referring to Mrs. Musgroves approach to her grandsons that is found in Persuasion? This is just one example of such humorous little tidbits found throughout the book.
The illustrations by Kathryn Rathke make the book even more delightful and the wonderful appendices complete the book. There you find a short bio of Jane Austen, a glossary of Regency terms, synopses of each novel, a listing of film adaptations, a bibliography and a list of web site and discussion groups.
I checked this wonderful book out from the library but will be adding it to my Jane Austen book collection soon.
How to Become an Accomplished Lady
How to Run a Great House
How to Indicate Interest in a Gentleman Without Seeming Forward
How to Throw a Dinner Party
How to Choose and Buy Clothing
Full of practical directions for navigating the travails of Regency life, this charming illustrated book also serves as a companion for present-day readers, explaining the English class system, currency, dress, and the nuances of graceful living."
You'll also learn just how rich Darcy really was and how much he would be worth today. I thought Sullivan explained entail better than anything else I have ever read about the subject. I feel like I finally understand entail and the hows and whys of its use.
All of the little day to day things that made up the life of the landed gentry during Austen's life time are covered. The writing is light and easy, less scholarly and more fun but just as informative and accurate as a more scholarly book.
I loved the tongue-in-cheek references to the novels that are found throughout the book. I found this approach humorous and enjoyable and almost felt like I was sharing an inside joke between myself, Margaret Sullivan and Jane Austen. For example, when writing about child rearing, Sullivan wrote that "if all else fails, liberal slices of cake solve many child-rearing problems." Could she be referring to Mrs. Musgroves approach to her grandsons that is found in Persuasion? This is just one example of such humorous little tidbits found throughout the book.
The illustrations by Kathryn Rathke make the book even more delightful and the wonderful appendices complete the book. There you find a short bio of Jane Austen, a glossary of Regency terms, synopses of each novel, a listing of film adaptations, a bibliography and a list of web site and discussion groups.
I checked this wonderful book out from the library but will be adding it to my Jane Austen book collection soon.
March 23, 2009
Physically, this book is compact. But it holds a wealth of information that any Jane Austen fan would benefit from. If you've ever wondered how you should behave at a country ball, what kinds of activities to take part in during a holiday in Bath, or how to play a game of Whist, go to this book for the answers. The author did a lot of research by reading various biographies of Jane Austen, as well as histories of the Regency period. It explains a lot of the little details you'd be curious about while reading Austen's novels, e.g., why Mr. Darcy is such an eligible bachelor even though he's unemployed (gentlemen must be seen to be unoccupied).
The author makes little 'inside jokes' here and there, which won't make much sense to people who haven't read the particular novel to which she's referring. I read The Jane Austen Handbook little bits at a time over the past two months, and even though I finished reading it, it's going to be something I'll refer to again and again in my rereading of Jane Austen's works.
The author makes little 'inside jokes' here and there, which won't make much sense to people who haven't read the particular novel to which she's referring. I read The Jane Austen Handbook little bits at a time over the past two months, and even though I finished reading it, it's going to be something I'll refer to again and again in my rereading of Jane Austen's works.
February 4, 2014
Enjoyable book. I learned some new facts about this time period, and I also had fun guessing what advice alluded to which Jane Austen novel. I would have liked a little more of the former, but the latter was fun. Overall, I would reread it for reference and eventually reread it for pleasure.
July 25, 2021
This was a fun look at etiquette from the Regency era.
April 15, 2025
fun but very light; probably not much new if you're at all into jane austen/the regency era
April 12, 2020
A great little book full of tongue-in-cheek guidance to life in the early 19th century as described in Jane Austen's books. A fun sidelight on the manners and customs that we have lost track of in these less formal times. The book doesn't try to be more than it is, but it does include succinct reviews of all the works of Jane Austen. It also has a listing of movies, TV series and books written to continue her unfinished works as well as stories inspired by her characters. But since this book was published in 2007, there have been several additions to those listed. There is also a helpful glossary of terms found in the Austen canon. I kept this book in my car and could just dip into for a quick look whenever I was waiting for some reason.
June 20, 2021
A wonderful book for either Jane Austen fan or Regency Era fan. Absolutely cheerful and detailed and humorous. I especially love the way the author say things in historical term, it just makes everything so cool and fancy. It's easy to judge characters sometimes when reading the books or films, and this particular handbook helps resolved so many mystery and misunderstanding I had about them.
Definitely a marvelous book! Although it's borrowed from the library, I may collect one someday. Also, there are quite a lot of books from Jane Austen that I haven't picked up somehow. This handbook is simply inspiring, making one wanting to explore more about the romantic world Jane created.
Definitely a marvelous book! Although it's borrowed from the library, I may collect one someday. Also, there are quite a lot of books from Jane Austen that I haven't picked up somehow. This handbook is simply inspiring, making one wanting to explore more about the romantic world Jane created.
February 1, 2021
I borrowed this from my local library on a whim after recently getting into the Bridgerton series (books & TV) and some fun chatting with a friend about the regency era, an era which I wanted to know more about. It's a casual, light-hearted guide that was fun to read and I learned things I hadn't known about the regency era so it certainly fits the bill of what I was looking for. I would recommend it for anyone who wanted a light introduction to the social customs of the upper class of the era.
May 18, 2020
This is a fun little collection of facts about culture and life in the days of Jane Austen, written like a how-to for a young woman searching for her Mr. Darcy.
September 9, 2022
"Well-bred young ladies must acquire a store of accomplishments that are of no practical use and are, therefore, quite attractive to gentlemen."
This book was exactly as charming as you'd expected. A quick, enjoyable insight into a bygone time.
This book was exactly as charming as you'd expected. A quick, enjoyable insight into a bygone time.
June 23, 2025
interesting. life is so different t in 2025 and the same.
April 23, 2011
Fellow Persuasion lover, Margaret C. Sullivan's new release THE JANE AUSTEN HANDBOOK (Quirk) is a charming dip into Regency manners and the proper way to secure a husband of good fortune. The Handbook delivers bites of information including the areas of How to Get Rid of Unwanted Guests and How to Carry Off a Secret Engagement. Sullivan's research into the Regency period and Jane Austen's novels is first rate. Her tone is quick and light-hearted, making the short volume a pleasure to read.
I found especially interesting the section on The Best Company; or Social Gatherings. There I learned how to behave at a dinner party - I'll be sure not only to gargle my fingerbowl water and not to drink it - as well as the best ways to avoid dancing with an undesirable partner, though some things never change from 8th grade dances - hiding and lying.
Sullivan's tongue-in-cheek advice extends to matters of the heart:
"Fall into a decline. Make yourself ill with unrequited love. He will hear of it and ride his horse into a lather to fling himself at your feet and beg your forgiveness. Just don't be so stupid as to actually die, especially if he has married someone else in the meantime."
The Handbook is a boon for writers as a quick reference on Regency life or to add a little lagniappe to their work. The appendix details a short biography of Jane Austen and her family, plus synopsis of her novels and other works rounding out the Handbook well.
I found especially interesting the section on The Best Company; or Social Gatherings. There I learned how to behave at a dinner party - I'll be sure not only to gargle my fingerbowl water and not to drink it - as well as the best ways to avoid dancing with an undesirable partner, though some things never change from 8th grade dances - hiding and lying.
Sullivan's tongue-in-cheek advice extends to matters of the heart:
"Fall into a decline. Make yourself ill with unrequited love. He will hear of it and ride his horse into a lather to fling himself at your feet and beg your forgiveness. Just don't be so stupid as to actually die, especially if he has married someone else in the meantime."
The Handbook is a boon for writers as a quick reference on Regency life or to add a little lagniappe to their work. The appendix details a short biography of Jane Austen and her family, plus synopsis of her novels and other works rounding out the Handbook well.
June 29, 2015
"The Jane Austen Handbook" described manners and aspects of daily life in Regency England, which is the time period of Jane Austen's novels. Some of it is information that you pick up just from reading her novels or watching the movies. However, there was a fair amount of other information that helps to fill out what life was like for the landed folk in England.
It included information like what the different servants do, correct behavior at a ball, how children were educated, how much someone's income was worth in modern terms, and so on. She included things that will help you to better understand the novels and things you simply might be curious about.
The author didn't go into great detail, but she covered a wide variety of subjects. The light tone makes it very readable and enjoyable. Overall, I'd recommend this book to fans of Jane Austen who want to know a little more about what life was like in the Regency Period.
It included information like what the different servants do, correct behavior at a ball, how children were educated, how much someone's income was worth in modern terms, and so on. She included things that will help you to better understand the novels and things you simply might be curious about.
The author didn't go into great detail, but she covered a wide variety of subjects. The light tone makes it very readable and enjoyable. Overall, I'd recommend this book to fans of Jane Austen who want to know a little more about what life was like in the Regency Period.
December 21, 2012
Aww what a cute book! <3
I thought it was awesome how Sullivan gave a little sarcastic twist on things sometimes. For example: In Sense and Sensibility, (whoever is familiar with it), Lucy Steele was secretly engaged to Edward Ferrars. In a chapter in her book titled "How to Carry On a Secret Engagement", the author writes from Lucy's point of view on how to do things. So, it was very amusing when "Lucy" was narrating about how to chase off "poachers" or "fix his little red wagon" because we knew it was silly what she was doing, but Sullivan wrote in a light that sorta made fun of the characters.
Also, I really enjoyed the "special features". At the end of the book, there was a listing of all of Jane Austen's movies, and I loooooved wasting my time watching all those romantics. :3
I thought it was awesome how Sullivan gave a little sarcastic twist on things sometimes. For example: In Sense and Sensibility, (whoever is familiar with it), Lucy Steele was secretly engaged to Edward Ferrars. In a chapter in her book titled "How to Carry On a Secret Engagement", the author writes from Lucy's point of view on how to do things. So, it was very amusing when "Lucy" was narrating about how to chase off "poachers" or "fix his little red wagon" because we knew it was silly what she was doing, but Sullivan wrote in a light that sorta made fun of the characters.
Also, I really enjoyed the "special features". At the end of the book, there was a listing of all of Jane Austen's movies, and I loooooved wasting my time watching all those romantics. :3
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