The BYU English Department and English Society celebrated Jane Austen Day in honor of Austen's 250th and BYU’s 150th birthday on Sept. 24.
They hosted an all-day “Pride and Prejudice” reading marathon and an Austen-themed tea party, aiming to honor the author for the lasting influence she has had throughout history.
Austen was a famous English storyteller in the early 1800s known for her six novels that portrayed the social constraints women endured throughout the Regency era. She used a blend of comedy and romance to shed light on important issues and created strong heroine characters who inspired women to be bold.
Austen enthusiasts throughout campus joined together for the events dressed up in gowns, fancy updos, suit jackets and top hats.
“The tea party filled up within days and the reading filled up, period,” said Rebecca Rode, the communications manager for the English Department. “ We had professors reading, we had Vice President Justin Collings read and we had students read.”
Readers took turns recounting the novel from about 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. while audience members listened. Some students read in British accents to add dramatic and engaging effects. When outdoor distractions like mechanical broom sweepers and lively children passed by, they continued to read despite the noise, and finished the book shortly before they were projected to.
Immediately after the book was finished, students and faculty members teamed up to host the tea party.
A short welcome speech was shared that explained how Jane Austen's mission and themes will always matter.
“Her legacy is long, and we trust it will continue here and elsewhere,” said Ilse Eskelsen, a member of the English Society.
Students lined up to enjoy an arrangement of refreshments and activities. There was a variety of fruit and veggies, sandwiches, sweets and herbal teas. They had a calligraphy contest, historical Austen displays, a photo booth and decorated tables where students mingled.
While waiting in line for refreshments, students shared about their passions for Austen.
“She’s an example of social satire and showing what society is about, and what it can potentially become, especially through her female characters,” said Heidi Pusey, an English major on the creative writing track. “They were very strong female characters, and I feel like that wasn’t super common at the time, so I feel like she’s showing women's capabilities in society.”
Eskelsen also shared the immense impact that Austen has had on her life.
“I’ve always loved Austen. I grew up on movies, and then I read a ton of her books in middle school,” Eskelsen said. “She’s classic for a reason. She’s so smart and witty, and also heartfelt and tender.”
When asked how aspiring Austen readers should approach their first book, Pusey shared the importance of having background knowledge to understand the social restraints that occur in her novels.
“Approach it with some historical background, understanding the regency era and how it works,” Pusey said.
The tea party came to a close with Austen trivia, awards and some words about the English Society.
More information about the English Society can be found at the English Society's Website.