Summary for 8 October

Femininity

Morgan brings up the fact that Catherine’s character may deviate, or even be a stark contrast, with the ideals that were expected of women of the day. She points out the significance of Catherine’s divergence from the “ideal woman” even though she will function as the novel’s heroine.

Do you think Austen had a particular audience in mind when writing the novel (think gender gap)?

What gender stereotypes are present in the novel? How does Austen’s characterization of Clara reflect her own possible views of what it means to be a heroine?

ReadingJusticeX draws parallels between Jane Austen’s novel and a chick flick, suggesting an inability to relate to the young female protagonist. He also brings up the comedic aspect of the novel as an important part of the tone.

Jenny suggests that there may be a new level of feminism in the book that works as a polar opposite from the themes of masculinity present in the last book. Austen discusses fashion, flirting and love, generally feminine topics, in the novel. Jenny also brings up the shallow interaction between some women that Austen may be pointing out.

Good Nature vs. Vanity

David points out the definite differences between the two families Catherine has engaged with: the Thorpes and the Tilney families. David points out that the pre-existing ties between Catherine and the Thorpes family drives her to spend more time in their company. However, she also seems to show a natural affection for the Tilneys. In some senses there is a “tug of war” situation going on here, David suggests, that could be a parallel with her trip to Bath. Perhaps her affection for the very different families suggests her greater shared affection for a simple good-natured life as well as for a life of greater luxury.

Do you think this will become a major conflict in the novel? Internal? External?

Maturity

Jamie illistritates a common tie between Northanger Abbey and the other two novels we have read: all three novels depict the growth of a character that begins in a state of somewhat immature state. Northanger Abbey might follow the story structure of “coming of age” and in the end demonstrate some degree of character transformation due to tragedy or downfall parallel to that in the other novels.

Paige also describes Catherine’s development from a plain tomboy to girl with more beauty. Paige suggests that this development may be surface level not actually indicative of a true change in Catherine. She predicts that the novel will force Catherine to develop on a higher level of maturity with greater consciousness.

Is there a difference between innocence and ignorance? How do you distinguish it?

Do you think Catherine will mature or will her function in the satirical nature of the plot prevent her maturation?

Point of View

Matt describes the importance of the third person point of view of Northanger Abbey. The past two novels have forced us to question the motives or reliability of the narrator, but that simply will not be an issue in this novel. No bias! Yay!

Paige similarly comments on the refreshing third person narrative.

What are some disadvantages of third person point of view?

Tone

Josh points out that Jane Austen is (surprise!) quite funny especially in terms of sarcasm. He comments on her satirical commentary about her own writing (which uniquely exists within the novel itself). Josh praises Austen’s use of satire to poke fun at nobility.
Josh also brings up these ironies:

-Catherine, naïve and silly, functions as a hero

-Catherine feels led to seek out John Thorpe based on the comments of her friends though she shows obvious dislike him

Yu also seems pleased with the satirical and humorous tone of the novel. He comments on Austen’s purposeful juxtaposition of Catherine (as good natured and innocent) and the other characters (as prideful and vain). He also mentions (similarly to David) that though the Tilney and Thorpes families are very different, both share a similar affection for our heroine.

The theme for this class is crime and literature. What kind of (strange?) relationship does make for since the novel is quite humorous/sarcastic?

Story Structure

Sarah talks about the importance of the legitimacy of the plot—in order for the novel to function as a satire the plot itself must be intriguing and relatable. Otherwise the satire would fail.

Batman discusses the purpose behind the structure of the novel: Catherine’s character is described at length to force the reader to understand her character; two unique but well to do families function as symbols of the choices presented to Catherine regarding life structure. In this sense the novel may function as a commentary about the flaws of the upper class.

Parallels with Modern Society

Does this novel parallel modern society? How? Did Austen accurately predict what themes would be relevant in the future?

Roman brings to light the fact that the novel, in many ways, parallels with modern society. He suggests that conflicts (internal or external) that were relevant to this time period still prove relevant today. He adds that the ideas of love and humor also can stand the test of time.

Sarah explains a parallel between society in Northanger Abbey and some aspects of social life at UNC, especially Greek life. She suggests that many of the characters can fit into stereotypes of today’s society.

Dislike of Isabella

Morgan discusses a distaste for Isabella based on her self-interested manipulation of Catherine. She also discusses the irritating fact that Isabella’s actions often do not coincide with her comments.

MLoveland comments that Catherine may be the only character presented thus far who has any redeeming value. He particularly comments on Isabella’s shallow character and on the “unjustifiably pompous” character of Isabella’s brother.

DJones unveils the relationship between Catherine and Isabella as somewhat shallow and perhaps premature or unnaturally rushed. He comments that this relationship may have a larger impact of demonstrating how Catherine will respond to “new acquaintances.”’

What is good about the novel as a whole that overshadows your distaste for the characters?