Choice-Rezension

Gay (Univ. of Sydney, Australia) makes a compelling argument that Austen was consistent in finding theater "a curiously fascinating and thought-provoking experience." Countering those who find a hostility to theater in Austen's work, she amasses a rich assortment of evidence from various kinds of 18th-century drama to demonstrate her thesis. She first delves into Austen's experience of theater evident in the juvenilia and home theatricals, and she looks at Austen's later experiences in London, Bath, and other venues. Then, turning to Austen's six novels in a chapter apiece, she looks at the "dialogue" between the novels and the theater in terms of their concepts of sensibility, femininity, morality, and tragedy; their use of dramatic stereotypes and dialogue; and other significant shared themes and techniques. Gay remains focused on her main concern and at the same time includes an astonishing amount of detail and quotation. The study is careful, well documented, articulate, knowledgeable, deftly written, and good-humored--and will surely be a delight to both confirmed Janites and serious scholars. Sound notes; brief but relevant bibliography and index. Highly recommended for academic libraries at all levels and for public libraries wishing to strengthen Austen-oriented holdings. T. Loe SUNY College at Oswego