Insights on PBS’s Miss Austin
The latest PBS show, Miss Austin, offers a unique perspective on Jane Austen’s life amidst the intriguing backdrop of the Regency era. The story focuses on her sister, Cassandra, portrayed by Keeley Hose, who takes steps—some quite controversial—to preserve Jane’s legacy.
For ages, scholars have cast Cassandra in a negative light, citing her act of burning Jane’s letters as a way of hindering future historians from truly understanding Jane’s life. However, Miss Austin presents an alternative viewpoint, suggesting that this act was an expression of love for her sister. Flashbacks reveal how young Cassandra’s feelings influenced Jane’s writing, and they illustrate how Jane wanted her books to present her joys rather than her sorrows. Ultimately, Cassandra’s choice to destroy Jane’s letters appears to be motivated by a desire to shield her sister’s character from the pain that might have emerged from her life experiences.
Aside from the heavy themes, Miss Austin also weaves in a charming romance. Cassandra draws inspiration from Jane’s own novel, Persuasion, to reconnect with Isabella Foul’s (played by Rose Leslie) first love, Dr. Alfred Ennock. Yet, a significant question lingers for fans: how closely does the show’s portrayal of Jane Austen’s death align with historical accounts?
Understanding Jane Austen’s Death
Jane Austen, who passed away at just 41 in 1817, had been declining in health since 1816. While various theories exist regarding the cause of her death, some scholars point to Addison’s disease, a rare adrenal deficiency with symptoms like weight loss and fatigue. Others believe she may have had Hodgkin’s lymphoma. What is clear is that Jane endured illness for over a year prior to her passing.
Fact vs. Fiction in Miss Austin
Miss Austin draws inspiration from Gill Hornby’s novel, which reflects real events and people in Jane Austen’s life. Characters like Mary Austen and the tragically engaged Cassandra add a layer of authenticity. Yet, fictional elements are woven throughout; notably, the handsome Henry Hobday exists only in the series’ narrative.
Interestingly, Keeley Hose, who plays Cassandra, has discussed the emotional weight of navigating these fictional relationships. She suggests that Cassandra’s true love was always Jane. In her view, their bond was the core of the story, overshadowing speculative regrets about lost romances. Ultimately, Miss Austin paints a poignant portrait of the love shared between the sisters.
