With February finally here, romance is in the air, and no other author screams romance quite like Jane Austen. But why is that the case? Sure, there is romance in every one of her major novels, but there are lots of famous romances, and none have the same level of popularity as Jane Austen's six major novels. So why does the season of romance bring her novels to mind? Let's take a look.
Romance
Let's start with the obvious. Because every one of Austen's novels has a romance in it, it's no wonder that the books, movies, and everything else are popular around Valentine's Day. Whether you are a Darcy and Lizzy fan, into Knightley and Emma, or are more interested in Anne and Captain Wentworth, there is a couple or a book boyfriend for just about everyone.
And whether you're single or not, Austen makes it easy to dream of a romantic hero or heroine that's perfect for you. There are really no better stories to escape into during this time of year.
Relatability
Despite being over 200 years old, Austen's stories are still highly relatable. Whether you're a gossip who is looking for love for all of your friends, more interested in reading than men, or are still struggling with a love that was lost, there is a character that everyone can relate to. There is even Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice for all of us socially-awkward introverts who couldn't talk to our crushes if our lives depended on it.
Jane Austen is the perfect author to read during Valentine's Day
Universal Themes
The universal themes in Austen's books are what make them popular not only during February but all year round. From money troubles to family responsibilities to troublesome relations to gender roles to friendship issues to misunderstandings, Austen's novels have it all. She gives you the fantasy of a romance but still keeps you down to earth with real struggles and problems. Something you don't often get from romances of this same time period.
Beyond the romance, Austen is most well-known for her social commentary, and while that commentary may not always fit modern times, it more often than not still fits very well (sometimes, shockingly so). It's those themes and that striking commentary that makes these stories time-tested and true classics.