Jane Austen (1775-1817), is one of English literature's most influential novelists. Known for her sharp observations of social manners and the lives of the English middle class, her enduring works like “Pride and Prejudice” and “Sense and Sensibility” captivate readers with their wit, irony, and insight into human behavior. Austen's novels, which critique the societal expectations of early 19th-century women, have left a lasting legacy. Some of her iconic quotes includes:
Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us.
Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice
The more I know of the world, the more I am convinced that I shall never see a man whom I can really love. I require so much!
Jane Austen - Sense and Sensibility
I hate to hear you talk about all women as if they were fine ladies instead of rational creatures. None of us want to be in calm waters all our lives.
Jane Austen - Persuasion
We have all a better guide in ourselves, if we would attend to it, than any other person can be.
Jane Austen - Mansfield Park
I wish, as well as everybody else, to be perfectly happy; but, like everybody else, it must be in my own way.
Jane Austen - Sense and Sensibility
There is a stubbornness about me that never can bear to be frightened at the will of others. My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me.
Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice
Despite her short life, her works continue to be widely read and adapted, influencing countless writers and sparking ongoing scholarly discussion. Jane Austen's contribution to literature remains significant, highlighting her lasting impact on the portrayal of women's lives. To honor her legacy, we've curated a collection of Jane Austen's memorable quotes.
Jane Austen Quotes About Love
Jane Austen's perspective on love is both deeply emotional and multifaceted. She portrays it as a powerful force that brings together joy and pain, hope and despair. For Austen, love is an overwhelming emotion that can seize the heart instantly and irrevocably. Its intensity often leaves one speechless, as true affection can outshine words. Austen depicts love as transformative and consuming, emphasizing its immense influence and ability to change individuals' lives.
You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope… I have loved none but you.
Jane Austen - Persuasion
The Very first moment I beheld him, my heart was irrevocably gone.
Jane Austen - Love and Friendship
When I fall in love, it will be forever
Jane Austen - Sense and Sensibility: The Screenplay
There could have been no two hearts so open, no tastes so similar, no feelings so in unison
Jane Austen - Persuasion
If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more
Jane Austen - Emma
Jane Austen Quotes About Life
Jane Austen's view on life is marked by her sharp wit and keen observation. She values intellectual engagement and the joy of literature, suggesting that those who don't appreciate novels lack understanding and imagination. Her preference for people who aren't overly agreeable shows her desire for genuine connections over superficial niceties. Austen emphasizes the importance of authenticity, intelligence, and a discerning approach to social interactions, valuing sincerity and depth over mere conformity.
The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid
Jane Austen - Northanger Abbey
I do not want people to be very agreeable, as it saves me the trouble of liking them a great deal.
Jane Austen - Jane Austen's Letters
Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.
Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice
Life seems but a quick succession of busy nothings
Jane Austen - Mansfield Park
I always deserve the best treatment because I never put up with any other.
Jane Austen - Emma
Jane Austen Quotes From The Book -Pride and Prejudice
In “Pride and Prejudice,” Jane Austen goes deeper into the multilayered nature of human emotions and relationships. She illustrates the swift progression of romantic feelings and the impulsive decisions that often follow. Austen also points out that strong emotions can cloud judgment, leading to unwise actions. Furthermore, she expresses a deep skepticism about human nature, revealing her belief in the inconsistency of people's behavior and the unreliability of appearances. Her observations highlight a critical perspective on the true nature of merit and the challenges of discerning genuine character in society.
A lady's imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.
In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.
I must learn to be content with being happier than I deserve.
Angry people are not always wise.
There are few people whom I really love, and still fewer of whom I think well. The more I see of the world, the more am I dissatisfied with it; and every day confirms my belief of the inconsistency of all human characters, and of the little dependence that can be placed on the appearance of merit or sense.
Jane Austen Quotes About Friendship
Jane Austen's perspective on friendship is rooted in authenticity and mutual trust. She values genuine connections over superficial interactions, believing in the importance of having a few close friends rather than many acquaintances. Austen's view suggests that true friendship involves unwavering loyalty and support, where individuals are willing to go the extra mile for each other. She also sees friendship as a source of solace and resilience, providing emotional nourishment during difficult times. Overall, Austen's portrayal of friendship underscores its transformative and enduring nature, highlighting its role in enriching lives and fostering meaningful relationships.
There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends. I have no notion of loving people by halves, it is not my nature.
Jane Austen - Northanger Abbey
From all that I can collect by your manner of talking, you must be two of the silliest girls in the country. I have suspected it some time, but I am now convinced.
Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice
Business, you know, may bring money, but friendship hardly ever does.
Jane Austen - Emma
Friendship is certainly the finest balm for the pangs of disappointed love.
Jane Austen - Northanger Abbey
It is not time or opportunity that is to determine intimacy: -- it is disposition alone. Seven years would be insufficient to make some people acquainted with each other, and seven days are more than enough for others.
Jane Austen - Sense and Sensibility
