Music

“‘Of music! Then pray speak aloud. It is of all subjects my delight.’” (Page 169)

Music was a very important part of nineteenth century culture. Along with theater, it was one the Victorian era’s chief forms of entertainment. The most popular styles of music included classical, orchestral music and folk music. Famous composers such as Johannes Brahms and Frederic Chopin flourished during this time period creating elegant waltzes and ballads. Much like today, music was incorporated into Victorian’s daily lives - at social gatherings and in their teachings. Austen references music because of how widespread it was during her time and because it had a profound effect on the general population. Austen mentions music several times throughout the novel to show how natural it is, not only to be familiar with it, but how to play it as well. This reflects Austen’s own life; throughout her childhood and adulthood, Jane Austen learned and practiced the pianoforte.

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"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.

Pianoforte. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://ellenandjim.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/pianoforte1.jpg.