A rare book owned by Jane Austen, featuring her annotations, is set to go under the hammer next month.
An exceedingly rare copy of Isaac D’Israeli’s Curiosities of Literature, once owned by the renowned author Jane Austen, has been discovered and will be auctioned by Sotheby’s next month. The book, which contains Austen’s annotations, sheds light on her literary preoccupations and provides insight into her writing process. This remarkable piece of history is expected to fetch a significant sum at the auction, making it an incredibly special occasion for Austen enthusiasts and bibliophiles alike.
A Glimpse into Austen’s Reading Habits
The annotated copy of Curiosities of Literature offers a unique glimpse into Jane Austen’s reading habits and the themes that captivated her as a writer. Dr. Kalika Sands, an international specialist at Sotheby’s, describes the volume as a significant rediscovery that provides valuable insights into Austen’s literary interests. The annotations found within the book are believed to have been made by Austen herself and relate to themes that feature prominently in her novels.
Annotated Passages Reflecting Austen’s Literary World
Several sections of the book contain Austen’s pencil underlinings, highlighting passages that resonate with her own writing. One such section, “On the Fair-Sex Having No Souls,” reflects Austen’s exploration of gender roles and societal expectations in her novels. The annotations also delve into topics such as “The Absent Man,” “Grotius,” “On the Adjective ‘Pretty’,” “Astrology,” “English Ladies,” and “Spanish Monks,” all of which offer intriguing connections to Austen’s life and work.
Austen’s Connection to Clergy
Of particular interest is the annotated section on “English Ladies,” in which D’Israeli quotes Gilles Ménage’s observations on the daughters and wives of the clergy in England. This passage holds significant relevance to Austen’s life, as her father was a clergyman, and clergymen are featured prominently in each of her novels. The annotations in this section shed light on Austen’s understanding of the economic and domestic stability that clergymen often provided to the heroines in her stories.
A Major Rediscovery
The copy of Curiosities of Literature, complete with Austen’s signature, has been privately owned since the 1940s, making this the first time the book and its annotations will be seen publicly. This major rediscovery offers a rare opportunity for Austen enthusiasts and literary scholars to delve into the mind of one of the most beloved authors in English literature.
The Auction and Estimated Value
The annotated copy of Curiosities of Literature is set to be auctioned alongside a full suite of first editions of all of Austen’s published works on 8 December. The book is expected to attract significant attention from collectors and Austen fans alike, with an estimated value ranging between $100,000 and $150,000 (£79,682 and £119,522). The auction presents a unique opportunity for Austen enthusiasts to own a piece of literary history and gain further insight into the mind of the iconic author.
Conclusion:
The discovery of Jane Austen’s annotated copy of Isaac D’Israeli’s Curiosities of Literature is a momentous event in the literary world. This rare find provides a window into Austen’s reading habits, her literary interests, and the themes that shaped her novels. The annotations offer a deeper understanding of Austen’s connection to the clergy, a recurring motif in her works. As the book goes up for auction, it is a reminder of the enduring fascination with Austen’s life and writing. The annotated copy of Curiosities of Literature stands as a testament to Austen’s brilliance and continues to captivate readers and scholars alike.
Leave a Reply