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Jane Austen is perceived as the quintessential English author. Her portrayal of Georgian Society in England is
admired throughout the world. However, her insight into human character and personality makes her universally acclaimed.
This is indeed the case in Scotland. In Pride and Prejudice, Scotland is synonymous with Lydia's elopement with Wickham.
Although it is highly unlikely that Jane herself ever visited Scotland, she did have links with the country. She was a great admirer
of Mary Queen of Scots. Her brother Henry, on a trip to Scotland, reveals Jane's identity as the authoress of Pride and Prejudice
to Lady Robert Kerr. Jane wrote in a letter to her brother Francis, "Henry heard P & P warmly praised in Scotland, by Lady Robt Kerr & another
Lady; - & what does he do in the warmth of his Brotherly vanity & Love, but immediately tell them who wrote it!" Her publisher for Emma,
Mansfield Park, Persuasion and Northanger Abbey was John Murray of the Scottish publishing family, and one of her admirers in
the literary world was Sir Walter Scott. His praise for Emma is recorded in the Quarterly Review where he states her characters were 'finished
up to nature; and with a precision which delights the reader'.
The Scottish Branch of the Jane Austen Society had its Inaugural Meeting on Saturday 3 April 2004 at Garvock House Hotel in Dunfermline. This was
highly successful and the committee and all who attended are extremely excited about the formation of a new Branch. All our members are fully involved
in the life of the Branch and it is this enthusiasm that has enabled this new Branch to be formed.
We would encourage fellow Scots to join us in honouring and promoting a wider interest in the life and times of Jane Austen.
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Subscription fee: | £10 per annum to contribute towards administrative costs, lectures etc.
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Newsletter: | There are two Newsletters per year; members are encouraged to submit articles, letters, observations or any other
matters of interest to the Branch.
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For further information please contact:
Ann Bates (Secretary), 3 James Place, Broughty Ferry, Dundee DD5 1EE.
Tel: 01382 774876. E-mail: figment1@btinternet.com
For application to join, please contact:
Sharron Bassett (Treasurer), "Sospiri", 9 George Street, Dunfermline, Fife, KY11 4QT.
Tel: 01383 727491.
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