Unveiling the Dark Side of Jane Austen's Oxford: A Rare Exhibition at St John's College
The University of Oxford is currently hosting a unique exhibition, The Austens at Oxford, which delves into the lesser-known aspects of Jane Austen's life. This captivating display, on view at St John's College Kendrew Barn until December 8th, offers a glimpse into the writer's family's time in the city, including letters, objects, and stories that reveal a more complex and nuanced picture of her life.
As part of a year-long celebration marking the 250th anniversary of Austen's birth, the exhibition showcases the writer's connection to Oxford, a place that holds a special place in her family's history. Austen's family had strong ties to the University, with her ancestors and relatives holding positions of influence. The founder of St John's College, Sir Thomas White, was a key figure in this connection, and Austen's direct lineage to his sister makes her a seven-times great-niece of the college's founder.
The exhibition highlights Austen's own time at Oxford, which was brief but not without its challenges. Co-curator Dr Timothy Manningmore notes that Austen's tone towards Oxford is often satiric and ironic, reflecting her observations of the students and their characters. Interestingly, Austen's brothers, James and Henry, had a positive experience at Oxford, despite their modest financial means. They managed to integrate and enjoy their time there, a testament to the university's inclusivity.
One of the exhibition's highlights is a display of Austen's father, George's, dinner menu from the college hall. It reveals a mix of ordinary and unusual dishes, including fish, sauce, gooseberry pie, and lemons, alongside more exotic items like tongue and udder, a popular 18th-century delicacy. The exhibition also features copies of The Loiterer magazine, which may include a piece by Austen herself, describing the 'dismal' halls and 'dusty' libraries.
The letters on display are a rare and precious find, as Austen's correspondence was largely destroyed after her death due to her sharp wit and humor. Only a small percentage of her letters survive, making the exhibition's folio of five letters a significant discovery. Dr Manningmore emphasizes the rarity and value of these letters, offering a unique insight into Austen's thoughts and personality.
The Austens at Oxford exhibition provides a fascinating exploration of Jane Austen's relationship with Oxford, shedding light on her family's history and her own experiences. It invites visitors to consider the complexities of her life and the impact of her surroundings on her work and legacy.
