The Architecture of Space-Time in the Novels of Jane Austen

This book argues that there are recurrent spatiotemporal patterns and structures in six Jane Austen novels which constitute a source of enduring, if unconscious, pleasure. More precisely, the book contends that there are overlapping natural and cultural cycles which co-exist in a constantly transmuting space-time and which are counterpointed with the linearity of pivotal events that drive the plot forwards. This work examines the psychological relations to these space-time patterns of the characters, principally the heroines, focusing on the transformations of their emotional states which prompt linear leaps.

Argues that there are recurrent spatiotemporal patterns and structures in all six of Austen's major novels which constitute a source of enduring, if unconscious pleasure Uncovers hitherto unnoticed features, such as, the fact that Mr. Woodhouse (Emma) stirs from home only twice during the narrative, on Christmas Eve and on Midsummer Eve, thus exhibiting a regular, if very slow rhythm of 'every solstice' Draws on a broad range of Austen's work

Autorentext

Ruta Baublyté Kaufmann was born in Lithuania. After a short career in contemporary dance and choreography, she studied Lithuanian, French and English literature in Universities of Vilnius, Lithuania, and Neuchatel, Switzerland. She completed her PhD in English literature from the University of Neuchatel, Switzerland, in 2017. She now teaches EFL in Switzerland and continues her research.

Inhalt

1. Introduction.- 2. Changing seasons: the cyclical and the linear.- 3. Changing homes: transformations in space and time.- 4. Spatiotemporal movements and psychological change: walking and dancing.- 5. Conclusion.