Gather in J. Pierpont Morgan’s historic library for dramatic readings and discussion of Jane Austen’s short novel, Lady Susan (128 pages).
Actors will perform select readings from the novel as a point of departure for discussion led by Juliette Wells, co-curator of A Lively Mind: Jane Austen at 250, blending literary and performing arts in an intimate evening of entertainment, discussion, and community. Please note that this program is organized as a participatory conversation and attendees are encouraged to read the book prior to the program.
Published posthumously, Lady Susan is a novel in letters. Beautiful, flirtatious, and recently widowed, Lady Susan Vernon seeks to further her station through her second marriage, while simultaneously pushing her daughter into a marriage with a man she detests. Austen’s satirical look at the hypocrisy and superficiality of Regency society has become a favorite among the author’s shorter works, delighting in its wit and elegant expression.
This program takes place in J. Pierpont Morgan’s historic library. Doors to the library will open 30 minutes before the program begins. A Lively Mind: Jane Austen at 250 will be open for program attendees from 5:30–6 PM.
Lady Susan is available for purchase in the Morgan Shop.
J. Austen: after an original family portrait, steel engraving [New York: 1873]. The Morgan Library & Museum, purchased by J. P. Morgan Jr., 1920; MA 977.43.