11. Jane Austen and Grandparents

This chapter examines the degree to which the grandparent-grandchild relationship is explored in Austen's mature novels. Regarding the experience of being a grandparent, Bartlett considers its rarity: in a time of high infant mortality, late marriage, and early death. There is a look at the Austen family history of marriage, remarriage, children, and the extensive grandparental experience described in the Memoir. Bartlett explores the experience of the grandparent and the treatment of grandchildren, in terms of their use in Austen's novels. Sense and Sensibility, Emma, and Persuasion are examined for their hard look at grandparents and grandchildren. Bartlett discusses dynastic drive; high-intensity scenes in Persuasion; and the depiction of grandparents that reflects Jane Austen’s own experience. Lastly, there is a comment on the connection between grandparenting and character in Persuasion.