With regard to men and Jane Austen‘s novels, I have heard that in World War I men at the front were given her novels to read and apparently found them incredibly consoling and uplifting in that time of unspeakable horror. Thank you Tristan for another brilliant video that has me champing at the bit to reread all of Austen!
I'm sure Rudyard Kipling wrote a short story about that - the men at the first world war who had a Jane Austen book group in the trenches. "The Janeites".
When I first read Pride and Prejudice I was totally captivated by the character analysis, by the insights into the flaws in her parents' marriage which Elizabeth does not want to repeat, whilst she must always show respect for them both, despite knowing all the time that her mother is an idiot whom her father should never have married. Her horror that her friend should marry the appalling Mr. Collins, and the pragmatic response her friend makes - basically that she has to marry and there might be difficulties with any husband. On and on. Jane Austen is so clever. Whilst they're all good I don't love any of the others as much.
Okay, here is my list-and I think I may have had an easier time than you did, Tristan. 6. Northanger Abbey 5. Mansfield Park 4. Sense and Sensibility 3. Pride and Prejudice 2. Emma 1. Persuasion I’m sort of surprising myself putting P&P third; but I LOVE Persuasion and I think Emma is just a delight! BTW, the best video of Pride and Prejudice is the 1980 series with Elizabeth Garvie and David Rintoul. Hands down. It’s literally perfect. This list is compiled with your caveat: there’s no bad Jane Austen. There’s only wonderful and wonderful-er Jane Austen. 🥰📖🥰📚🥰
You’re making it hard for me! I’m still halfway through Monte Cristo so I cannot read any other book soon but I wanna read more Jane Austen novels after the very funny and pleasant P&P reading!
FINALLY! This video is spectacular!!! Would you consider doing a talk on Jane Austin’s lesser known or accomplished works - Sandition, Lady Susan and The Watsons?
My first ever Jane Austen book is being read right now and it is-------EMMA!! I am in LOVE! I'm so glad that I'm reading it and that you rated it number 1. Thanks for sharing your opinions!
I love Jane Austen, but have never thought to put them in order of how good I think them. I least like, yet still like, Northanger Abbey, and I put Emma higher than most people, in fact 1st like Tristan. I belong to the JA Society, and many members put Emma lower. I think the "badly done Emma" scene puts many women off. Trouble is I now will have to read them all again to make list. Lovely video, Tristan, thanks.
I couldn’t agree with you more.. it’s a very hard task to rank these! While I love them all, Persuasion has always been my favorite… though I understand and agree with the reasoning behind your rankings of each. Excellent insights!
Emma is my number one as well!! The writing is so good! And the characters are interesting and the story lighthearted. Second for me is Persuasion because of my personal preference to the story and “happy ending”. And third for me is Mansfield Park because it made me FEEL so much especially the ending. I was so angry but I couldn’t help but love the book and how realistic it could be. New subscriber! 📚😀
Embarrassed to admit, I have never read a Jane Austen novel, but I have 4 or 5 on my TBR book shelf. I just did not know where to start. I appreciate your ranking and will use it as a guide during my journey through Austin. Thank you, I really appreciate all the work you put in to your videos.
Thanks for another super video Tristan. I have to confess having a soft spot for Sense and Sensibility. The brilliance of the small section at the start where Fanny dissuades her husband from giving his sisters financial support is breath-taking. Im so glad i found your channel and your patreon. I tell all my friends I am in a "literary book club"lol!. I really appreciate how accessible and informative your videos are. I work quite long hours and I struggled to keep up with a "live" book club, but even if I am a few weeks behind your group I have all the videos to watch in my own time and I'm loving the connections you make.. Thanks again.
Just discovered your channel and love it. Super excited you ranked Austen’s work. So hard to do, because we love them all! But if forced, I agree with your bottom two-though I would switch the order. I find I reach for NA the most seldom and really enjoy some of the smaller characters in SS (eg Mr Palmer, brought beautifully to life by Hugh Laurie). I refer to all of the top 4 as my “favorite” when asked, so it’s funny how similar we are on this. I do agree with Emma at the top. I, like you and Jane love this heroine very much. So tricky, but final top to bottom: Emma, P&P, Persuasion, MP, S&S, NA. Thanks for asking for input (though many months belated, happy to oblige!)
Sorry for all the comments. I tend to respond as I watch, and I like to feed the algorithm. Favorite Austen books in order… This is so hard, and will probably change with each read-through. 6) Northanger Abbey 5) Sense & Sensibility 4) Persuasion 3) Emma 2) Pride and Prejudice 1) Mansfield Park I wouldn’t be surprised, though, if my next reread of Emma moves Emma up to 2nd place. I get so much more out of it (and each Austen book) each time I read. I think that poor Fanny Price gets overshadowed by more vibrant heroines, which is a shame, because she is a great character in her own right, with a quiet strength. She’s kind of like my other favorite heroines, Anne Elliot and Elinor Dashwood, in that way.
This is a very brave video😉 My favorite Austen novel is......the last one I just finished! Thank you for taking so much time with Mansfield Park, which is so underappreciated. And I'd recommend it's time for you to re-read Northanger Abbey--every time I read it, it goes up higher in my estimation of Austen's works.
😂😂 I'm one those blokes you describe if the opening part of the video! It's weird because I know I'd enjoy them like I do all classics. This could be the the final push I need to dive in, thanks Tristan.
Wonderful video, Tristan! Thank you. Jane Austen is one of my favorite authors, and I’ve read all of her books multiple times over many years. I’m a middle-aged man and the father of three daughters, so I’ve seen her perceptiveness first-hand about the world of relationships, character, and social mores. At this stage of my life, I would rank them differently than I would have when I was younger, so here goes: (6) Northanger Abbey [enjoyable and funny but not as well-constructed as her others]; (5) Mansfield Park [deep, but I can’t get past the squeamishness of a romance between two first cousins who were practically raised as siblings - I know this is my own modern sensibility intruding - but Mrs. Norris the meddlesome aunt is one of the great detestable characters of literature]; (4) Emma [such a great cast of characters and I agree that the development of Emma’s maturity over the course of the novel is masterfully handled by Austen]; (3) Sense and Sensibility [I greatly admire the character of Elinor who takes on the responsibility of caring for her family after her father’s death and loves them despite their emotional drama. I also think that Edward Farrars is a well-matched leading man.]; (2) Pride and Prejudice [I re-read this book regularly, and I always discover something new to enjoy. I so enjoy the Bennet family and the cast of characters she created. Austen’s layering of the plot in this book is unparalleled. The quadruple story line of the romances of Elizabeth, Jane, and Lydia Bennet, and of Charlotte Lucas shows a nuanced exploration of the very serious business of marriage for young women at this time. Plus, after recently seeing my own three daughters married off, I have new respect for Mr. And Mrs. Bennet!]; (1) Persuasion [My clear favorite at this stage of life as I am able to look back and see the importance of making choices based on one’s own prospects of happiness and fulfillment rather than choosing only to please others. Anne Elliot is a great character who also learns from her mistakes, and is able to think independently despite the well-intentioned advice of friends and family.] Wow, this comment was way too long, but I agree that all 6 of Austin’s major books are great. I would (and will) read them all again!
I just found your video, and I after with your ranking, though the top two are tied for me, and I might put NA above Persuasion. Thank you for your words about Edmund. He is truly an underrated character and my favorite after Mr. Knightley. Excellent ranking!
One of my favorite writing techniques that Austen employs is her use of letters. So much of the characters’ personalities and also important plot points are revealed in the form of letters. “Persuasion” and “P&P” are my number one Austen novels. Captain Wenworth’s letter is amazing. I’d rank “Northananger Abbey” sixth; however, it got me to read “The Mysteries of Udolpho.” :)
FINALLY! Someone who loves Mansfield Park as much as I do ❤ Can you do a breakdown of Mansfield Park!? Ranking (1-6): Mansfield Park, Persuasion, S&S, P&P, Emma, NA
I'm so happy to come across someone who sees Mansfield Park in high regard! I rank Northanger Abbey (lowest), Emma, Mansfield Park, Sense & Sensibility, P&P and Persuasion (highest)....Mansfield Park and S &S change places from time to time!
Excellent video. RUclips is full of videos ranking Jane Austen novels but most of them appear to be based on the most superficial of readings. That is not the way of this channel of course. I enjoyed listening to Tristan’s insights. I find that I rank the novels in two ways. The first is simply by trying to assess honestly which I enjoy most. The second is based on my admiration for them as, in some cases brilliant, works of art. There is some overlap between these judgement criteria since of course my pleasure is influenced by my perception of how wonderfully clever some of them are. In terms of simple enjoyment my ranking is 6 Northanger Abbey, 5 Sense and Sensibility, 4 Mansfield Park, 3 Emma, 2 Pride and Prejudice, 1. Persuasion ( I must have a romantic side, it seems). Based on a deeper judgement the order emerges as follows. 6. Northanger Abbey: for some reason I have never been able to get on with this one - my fault no doubt. 5. Sense and Sensibility: if this were Jane Austen’s only surviving work we should still admire her. I am fascinated by the character of Lucy Steele. Very subtly drawn - we are almost made to feel that an intelligent girl like Lucy, faced with the consequences of her station in society, has almost no choice but to act as she does. Nonetheless, she is the subject of one of Jane Austen’s most breathtakingly devastatingly ironical sentences. “ Lucy’s behaviour…may be held forth as a most encouraging instance of what an…unceasing attention to self-interest…will do in securing every advantage of fortune, with no other sacrifice than that of time and conscience.” 4. Persuasion: unique in tone, deeply touching, perhaps the most overtly critical of the emptiness of Regency high society. 3. Pride and Prejudice: full to the brim of great characters, many hilarious - Elizabeth, Darcy, Mr Bingley, Jane, Wickham, Mrs Bennet, Mr Bennet, Miss Bingley (brilliantly played by Anna Chancellor in the best adaptation), Mr Collins (!of course), Lady De Bourgh (oh Lady De Bourgh!). We also have the highly interesting, utterly unsentimental character of Charlotte Lucas whose “rational” actions give such material for discussion. 2. Mansfield Park: a really great novel. We see the heroism of Fanny, the observer who alone sees things as they really are and who from her impossibly weak position holds out against the strongest of forces and remains true to her principles. We also see just how attractive the Devil can make himself - and herself - appear. Yet it is Maria and Mrs Norris (the most irredeemably sadistic Jane Austen villainess) who suffer the greatest Dantesque punishment. Throw in a spot of symbolism for good measure. 1. Emma: a literary tour de force. Jane Austen is known for her ironic mode of expression but the action can throw up ironies too - one great, shocking, ironic moment is when Emma suddenly sees what terrible consequences her meddling potentially has for her own happiness. We are also treated to one of the most toe-curlingly embarrassing scenes in literature (at Box Hill) - up there with the famous Mr Elton and Mr Darcy’s marriage proposals. But just as important in the novel is what Emma does not see and which the reader does not see and which is happening in the background. The novel can be looked on as a detective story but a very special one in that you are not told, in spite of a few hints, that there is anything to discover. Genius! Some people regard Jane Austen as cruel. I don’t agree but if you wanted to find evidence you might see it in the torment through which she puts the long-suffering Jane Fairfax - to my mind one of the most sympathetic characters in fiction.
I've always felt a strong connection to Emma more than any of Jane Austen's other heroines, so when people say she's not likable, I'm not sure what to think, haha! 😂 Emma was actually the first Austen novel I read, so it holds a special place in my heart. My top 3 favourites that are always vying for the top spot in my ranking are Emma, Pride & Prejudice, and Persuasion. The bottom 3 usually stay consistent over the years, with Northanger Abbey coming next, followed by Sense & Sensibility, and lastly Mansfield Park. Although, I do agree that Mansfield Park is the richest one to study and analyze in depth. I just love them all! Great video!
My rankings: 6-Sense and Sensibility, 5-Persuasion, 4-Northanger Abby, 3-Pride & Prejudice. 2-Mansfield Park, 1- Emma which was my first Austen novel and it has always had a special place in my favorites. Mansfield Park was the last Austen I read and I was blown away by it. It’s one of those that continues to present itself in the forefront of my mind. My two favorite heroins are Jane Eyre and Emma, thus my user name😊
What a surprise! Never would have guessed what your top two are! Very original choices well thought out and hard to rank given its Jane Austen. Looking forward to seeing your next video.
Emma isn't the only daughter because her sister married the brother of Mr Nightly. Or maybe Am I wrong and it was only a license of the movie version?😅 A very nice ranking. I am fond of Pride and Prejudice but I have to admit you are right. Bravo! 😊👏🏻
My friend, the other day said, that her favourite Jane Austen's novel is the last one she was reading. It is always But if I had to make the Ranking Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion are both first Emma Northanger Abbey Sense and Sensibility Mansfield Park Thank you for all your videos, and for this in particular
Thank you. I never liked Emma but reread it after listening to you. I liked it much more this time around. My list: 1. Persuasion 2. Pride and Prejudice 3. Sense and Sensibility 4. Emma 5. Mansfield Park 6. Northanger Abbey.
I’m enjoying a Jane Austen deep dive this year and so I’m waiting to see where that leaves my ranking once I’m finished. I used to say Emma was my favorite when I’d only read them all once, but now that I’ve read them all a few times, I’m not quite sure anymore. My latest reading of Mansfield was last year and I really appreciated that Fanny is a rare, introverted protagonist, and I agree that she is wonderful. I also really appreciated your insights and had never thought about before how very different all of the novels really are in their overall tone. It really does show Austen’s genius. 🥰💖👏
My current rankings - and I stress current because my rankings have shifted over the years: 1. Pride and Prejudice 2. Northanger Abbey 3. Emma 4. Persuasion 5. Sense and Sensibility 6. Mansfield Park Lady Susan would fit in the top three somewhere.
I appreciate this video. Jane Austen is one of my favorite authors. I've read all six of these, although it's been about 25+ years. I can't really rank them, although I might put Northanger Abbey at the bottom. It's delightful, but not as rich (in my recollection) as the others. Austen's humor and sense of irony is a delight, and her keen and compassionate perception of human nature is compelling in all of these works.
I simply cannot do it -- props to you for actually managing such a list. Every time I read them, the order of preference changes. On a Desert Island Discs scenario I would have as my luxury item the Delphi (or similar) Complete Works of Jane Austen 💕🤣
This is deeply difficult and I might have a different answer tomorrow but for me, in this moment, it's probably: 6 Sense & Sensibility 5 Persuasion 4 Mansfield Park 3 Emma 2 Pride & Prejudice (Disclaimer: It's hard to say for sure, but I feel like this ranking might be partially due to mere familiarity as I've read it several more times than any of the others) 1 Northanger Abbey (I can't help it. I love a humorous book!)
Hard to rank them, as you say. But I have found over the span of my life that my favorite Jane Austen novel keeps changing as I grow and change. My last place would be Northanger Abbey - had a hard time getting through it initially, but ultimately loved it; 5th place is S&S (though the movie was excellent!); #4 Emma (she grates on my nerves because she hits too close to home to me at that age (LOL!); as for the rest, they've each been #1 with me at different points, #2 is a tie between Mansfield Park and Persuasion with P&P #1. It is SO funny, and I've read it more than any other book (6x, 7x?) because I get new insights every time I read it!
Tristan, I have won the Jane Austen lottery! Your list is my list. I think Emma is my favourite novel; I return to it again and again, and I'd love to be able to read it again for the first time so I can be surprised by all the plot twists. Something I appreciate so much is how well developed all the subplots are. To me, that's the main flaw in Persuasion, and it feels unfinished. I always recommend starting Austen with P&P, maybe because I did. Wonderful video, thank you.😊
I love to hear your thoughts about Austen. Personally, I would rank them like this: 1. Pride and Prejudice 2. Northanger Abbey 3. Mansfield Park 4. Emma 5. Persuasion 6. Sense and Sensibility To be honest, Persuasion would probably be way higher if Austen hadn't died so early. Emma is so low for me because the fandom has soured it.
I read my entire Jane Austen collection during the horrendous lockdown which I was sweer to adhere to but it got me through part of it. I didn't think I'd read them again for many years having read them several times already. But watching this, Tristan, I might pick them up again tomorrow! And I pretty much agree with your running order except I'd probably swap Persuasion with Mansfield Park.
The thing I love about Austen is my ability to find something new on every rereading. Her depth is remarkable. I’m not sure I can honestly list them, they have a tendency to slip by each other while I’m not looking. However, I do find myself bereft if I go longer than a year without reading P&P. I’ve been doing it for over 40 years, it’s a comfort, a privilege and a joy.
Persuasion tops my list, followed by P&P. irrespective of relative quality, I do enjoy Northanger Abby. The rest are impossible for me to rank. Loved this video!
I'm not going to rank them, because I've only reread Persuasion and Emma. I need to be more acquainted with the books first. But I must say, I am so glad for your number one choice because it is so so underrated. It was my first Jane Austen when I was in my 20s, and I just reread it last year at age 31 and it blew me away! And now I must request that you do a sort of lecture on how to read Austen "properly," as you say, because I like to read an Austen book every year (I'm doing Pride and Prejudice this summer), and I find her work so complex that I often get the sense I'm not reading it as deeply as I could be. Oh and I adore Fanny Price!
My ranking: #6 Sense and Sensibility. #5 Mansfield Park #4 Persuasion #3 Northanger Abbey #2 Emma #1 Pride and Prejudice. As you have made clear, our rankings are entirely subjective. My original favorite was Pride and Prejudice; my favorite books to read these days are Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. I think one's favorite depends on one's time of life and one's mood.
In my rank of J.Austen's novels - Persuasion is #1. As for P&P's TV and cinematography adaptations - 1980 TV series is in the first place to me (so even above the version with Colin Firth😂) A very interesting vid, by the way.
So interesting to hear your thoughts! My own order is probably 6) Mansfield Park, 5) Northanger Abbey, 4) Sense and Sensibility, 3) Persuasion, 2) Pride and Prejudice, 1) Emma. My reason for putting Mansfield Park last is that I find all the characters kind of unlikeable. In particular Fanny strikes me as being quite sanctimonious which is a quality that gets in my nerves. However I read it as a teenager so might feel differently now… Northanger Abbey is amusing but nothing much more than that. I really like the questions posed in Sense and Sensibility and love the scene at the beginning when Marianne faints and has to be carried home by a handsome stranger (Willoughby) 😂👌. Persuasion is the only book where the character is a bit older and in many ways it’s the most interesting and could be number one. Pride and Prejudice is almost certainly the best and most entertaining story and the characters are the most likeable and relatable, however Emma is also a good story and makes up in depth and insight what it lacks in fun. I’m also fond of Emma as a character because in many ways she reminds me of myself (though perhaps I shouldn’t admit it 🤭). Also, I think it has one of the best opening paragraphs.
22:23 yes. 😂 I made a video ranking Austen heroines a couple years ago, and I talked about how Lizzy’s faults tend to get missed by the reader if the reader doesn’t dig deeper. It’s what frustrates me about Lizzy, but also what makes her so human. And the BBC version is soooo good! 43:59 so read in order of publication? I agree, especially for the open-minded new reader. And Mr. Knightley is my favorite Austen hero.
This was very well done........indeed. Thanks for it. Some other random comments. It was endearing that you mixed up Mary with Elizabeth in Persuasion. Our minds do play tricks. BOTH Persuasion and Mansfield Park are very somber compared to Pride and Emma. I agree with your 6th- and 5-spot choices but diverged on most of the others (no surprise with this magnificent set). You don't go into the weeds of this, but I believe you (like I do) approach this question of ranking as the distinguishing of merit versus liking. From the number of rereads, P&P is very much my favorite but I do not consider it her best. I rank the books by comparing what Jane was trying to achieve given where she was in her life. Emma is a perfect effort, composed in the wheelhouse of her health and experience. P&P is simply delightful. Persuasion has many admirable qualities (much is concentrated to essence), but you can also see the failing health. There is thinly-veiled vitriol present, too. Elizabeth and Mary are more like Cinderella's ugly sisters than flawed but acceptable siblings and their father is not much better. I've currently just started a reread of Mansfield. It's just not that happy of a book, unfortunately. I can (under my current prejudices) rank it no better than #4. My 2-spot and winner are, respectively, P&P and Emma. I like your comparison of Emma and Pip. They change and become better people. My latest cat (he is quite the pill) is named Pip.
Wonderful video! 🩷 I would rank them in a similar way (Northanger Abbey would be last in my list). I also rank Mansfield Park up there with Emma. Mansfield Park definitely deserves more love and a decent BBC adaptation truly faithful to the text and context, don't you think?
Interesting. I enjoy classic novels, but have tended to focus on George Eliot, Dickens and Thomas Hardy, so I only recently decided I'd better fill some gaps and read Jane Austen. I read Emma first, and it was enjoyable, Emma herself was both exasperating and likeable, it was entertaining, and as you say has depth. They're very readable so for anyone who hasn't read her yet it's worth doing.
So nice to see Mansfield Park ranked highly! My ranking: 6. Emma - Emma’s treatment of Harriet felt like a callous social experiment to me in the end, and I didn’t enjoy the Knightly/ Emma romance, even though I liked him as a character. It is the only Austen novel I’ve only read once, though, and it might improve upon a reread. 5. Sense and Sensibility 4. Northanger Abbey 3. Mansfield Park 2. Pride and Prejudice 1. Persuasion
S&S is not my favorite either. But my least favorite Austen is still heads and tails above many others! Good point about the theme of balance. I would agree with that. Yes, NA is so clever and funny. Very enjoyable. "They all have a particular place in my heart." YES! P&P and Emma take turns on any given day as my favorite Austen. I love them both, and I'm glad there's someone besides me who loves the character of Emma. OHMYGOODNESS yes about the blind spots!!! I think that to myself all the time when people say they dislike certain characters. My ranking is same as yours except with P&P and MP flipped.
Loved this video! Jane Austen is my favourite author of all time…although, I am embarrassed to admit that I have yet to tackle Emma. What are your thoughts on her unfinished work, Sanditon? I read it for the first time last year, and I personally think that if she was able to finish it, it might have been her best work. The hypochondriac siblings were just a hilarious joy to read about. Reading it ultimately filled me with a sort of melancholy thinking about how it will forever be unfinished. At least we have her six finished works to read again and again!
My top three alternate but include Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, and Persuasion. I love all of them equally. I think I would put Emma next, then Sense and Sensibility and Northanger Abbey. Even as I type this, I am questioning myself though, as all six novels are marvelous.
I absolutely adore Emma for the same reasons you mentioned in this video. However, my favourite is still Pride and Prejudice because it's the first of her books I read and watched the adaptation of (the BBC miniseries). In fact, that was how I was introduced to Jane Austen. Since I'm not from the English speaking world, we didn't read Austen in school. Alas, my least favourite is Mansfield Park. I don't know why I didn't get along with that book, because I can see that it's masterfully written. Some people don't like Fanny and consider her a boring character, just like Austen's mom, but I actually liked her a lot. I definitely have to reread it. My ranking: 6. Mansfield Park 5. Northanger Abbey 4. Sense and Sensibility 3. Persuasion 2. Emma 1. Pride and Prejudice
I'm not sure I could rank them now. When I was younger it would have been Persuasion, Mansfield Park, Pride and Prejudice, Northanger Abbey, Emma and Sense and Sensibility. But really it's so hard to choose, because they're all brilliant. I identified with Anne and Fanny because they were quieter more introspective characters.
Not a fan of Mansfield park. I’m half way through and it is so different to the other books like you said. I’m determined to finish it. But I’ve gone over to read Dracula to have a break from MP lol. I’ll get back into Mansfield park after I’ve read Dracula.
I've read Emma and Sense and Sensibility not so long ago. It's a long time since I read Mansfield Park or Pride and Prejudice - I must get around to reading Pride and Prejudice soon.
Emma is easily my favorite. But I laughed out loud so many times with Sense and Sensibility! The humor is very dry and highly sarcastic but it’s surely there. I enjoyed it very much. Mansfield Park is dead last on my list but only because of the rushed ending! I mean, what the heck Jane? And if I were Fanny I would never had married Edmund. MP has one of my favorite characters I love to hate, Mrs. Norris. I just wish someone would rewrite the ending!!! So my order is Emma, Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion, Northanger Abbey and Mansfield Park.
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Ranking Jane Austen’s novels? My dear Tristan, impossible!
With regard to men and Jane Austen‘s novels, I have heard that in World War I men at the front were given her novels to read and apparently found them incredibly consoling and uplifting in that time of unspeakable horror. Thank you Tristan for another brilliant video that has me champing at the bit to reread all of Austen!
I'm sure Rudyard Kipling wrote a short story about that - the men at the first world war who had a Jane Austen book group in the trenches. "The Janeites".
Oh, I’d like to read that! Thank you!
I read the same thing.
When I first read Pride and Prejudice I was totally captivated by the character analysis, by the insights into the flaws in her parents' marriage which Elizabeth does not want to repeat, whilst she must always show respect for them both, despite knowing all the time that her mother is an idiot whom her father should never have married. Her horror that her friend should marry the appalling Mr. Collins, and the pragmatic response her friend makes - basically that she has to marry and there might be difficulties with any husband. On and on. Jane Austen is so clever. Whilst they're all good I don't love any of the others as much.
Okay, here is my list-and I think I may have had an easier time than you did, Tristan.
6. Northanger Abbey
5. Mansfield Park
4. Sense and Sensibility
3. Pride and Prejudice
2. Emma
1. Persuasion
I’m sort of surprising myself putting P&P third; but I LOVE Persuasion and I think Emma is just a delight! BTW, the best video of Pride and Prejudice is the 1980 series with Elizabeth Garvie and David Rintoul. Hands down. It’s literally perfect. This list is compiled with your caveat: there’s no bad Jane Austen. There’s only wonderful and wonderful-er Jane Austen. 🥰📖🥰📚🥰
I've not seen the 1980 version of P&P. Thanks for recommending it.
1. Mansfield park
2. Emma
3. Pride and prejudice
4. Northanger abbey
5. Persuasion
6. Sense and sensibility
Same!
Actually, the first two are equal for me.
I just love Jane Austen! 📚❤️
Also love your reviews!!
Emma is my favorite, too. Her character growth is fascinating. I also enjoy the transition in the relationship between Emma and Mr. Knightley.
You’re making it hard for me! I’m still halfway through Monte Cristo so I cannot read any other book soon but I wanna read more Jane Austen novels after the very funny and pleasant P&P reading!
I used to have a ranking order for all the Jane Austen novels and I still love Persuasion best. But over time, all the other 5 are tied at #2. 😂😂😂
LOVE THIS!!! ❤️❤️❤️
FINALLY! This video is spectacular!!! Would you consider doing a talk on Jane Austin’s lesser known or accomplished works - Sandition, Lady Susan and The Watsons?
Thank you! I agree: Emma. I’ve been smitten since first read about a thousand years ago. It hasn’t gone away.
My first ever Jane Austen book is being read right now and it is-------EMMA!! I am in LOVE! I'm so glad that I'm reading it and that you rated it number 1. Thanks for sharing your opinions!
My ranking is:
6. Sense and Sensibility
5. Emma
4. Northanger Abbey
3. Mansfield Park
2. Persuasion
1. Pride and Prejudice
But I love them all!!
The same. Twins.
I love Jane Austen, but have never thought to put them in order of how good I think them. I least like, yet still like, Northanger Abbey, and I put Emma higher than most people, in fact 1st like Tristan. I belong to the JA Society, and many members put Emma lower. I think the "badly done Emma" scene puts many women off. Trouble is I now will have to read them all again to make list. Lovely video, Tristan, thanks.
I couldn’t agree with you more.. it’s a very hard task to rank these! While I love them all, Persuasion has always been my favorite… though I understand and agree with the reasoning behind your rankings of each. Excellent insights!
Emma is my number one as well!! The writing is so good! And the characters are interesting and the story lighthearted.
Second for me is Persuasion because of my personal preference to the story and “happy ending”. And third for me is Mansfield Park because it made me FEEL so much especially the ending. I was so angry but I couldn’t help but love the book and how realistic it could be.
New subscriber! 📚😀
Embarrassed to admit, I have never read a Jane Austen novel, but I have 4 or 5 on my TBR book shelf. I just did not know where to start. I appreciate your ranking and will use it as a guide during my journey through Austin. Thank you, I really appreciate all the work you put in to your videos.
Thanks for another super video Tristan.
I have to confess having a soft spot for Sense and Sensibility. The brilliance of the small section at the start where Fanny dissuades her husband from giving his sisters financial support is breath-taking.
Im so glad i found your channel and your patreon. I tell all my friends I am in a "literary book club"lol!. I really appreciate how accessible and informative your videos are. I work quite long hours and I struggled to keep up with a "live" book club, but even if I am a few weeks behind your group I have all the videos to watch in my own time and I'm loving the connections you make.. Thanks again.
Just discovered your channel and love it. Super excited you ranked Austen’s work. So hard to do, because we love them all! But if forced, I agree with your bottom two-though I would switch the order. I find I reach for NA the most seldom and really enjoy some of the smaller characters in SS (eg Mr Palmer, brought beautifully to life by Hugh Laurie). I refer to all of the top 4 as my “favorite” when asked, so it’s funny how similar we are on this. I do agree with Emma at the top. I, like you and Jane love this heroine very much. So tricky, but final top to bottom: Emma, P&P, Persuasion, MP, S&S, NA. Thanks for asking for input (though many months belated, happy to oblige!)
Hello. Amy, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Like you I could name several of then as "favorite". Thanks for your comment.
Sorry for all the comments. I tend to respond as I watch, and I like to feed the algorithm.
Favorite Austen books in order… This is so hard, and will probably change with each read-through.
6) Northanger Abbey
5) Sense & Sensibility
4) Persuasion
3) Emma
2) Pride and Prejudice
1) Mansfield Park
I wouldn’t be surprised, though, if my next reread of Emma moves Emma up to 2nd place. I get so much more out of it (and each Austen book) each time I read. I think that poor Fanny Price gets overshadowed by more vibrant heroines, which is a shame, because she is a great character in her own right, with a quiet strength. She’s kind of like my other favorite heroines, Anne Elliot and Elinor Dashwood, in that way.
Please don't apologise for commenting, Tahlia. I appreciate reading your thoughts and the help with the algorithm. 😅
This is a very brave video😉 My favorite Austen novel is......the last one I just finished! Thank you for taking so much time with Mansfield Park, which is so underappreciated. And I'd recommend it's time for you to re-read Northanger Abbey--every time I read it, it goes up higher in my estimation of Austen's works.
That's what happens to me every time I read every one of her books. 😆😆
😂😂 I'm one those blokes you describe if the opening part of the video! It's weird because I know I'd enjoy them like I do all classics. This could be the the final push I need to dive in, thanks Tristan.
I am sure you would like Austin.
Wonderful video, Tristan! Thank you. Jane Austen is one of my favorite authors, and I’ve read all of her books multiple times over many years. I’m a middle-aged man and the father of three daughters, so I’ve seen her perceptiveness first-hand about the world of relationships, character, and social mores. At this stage of my life, I would rank them differently than I would have when I was younger, so here goes: (6) Northanger Abbey [enjoyable and funny but not as well-constructed as her others]; (5) Mansfield Park [deep, but I can’t get past the squeamishness of a romance between two first cousins who were practically raised as siblings - I know this is my own modern sensibility intruding - but Mrs. Norris the meddlesome aunt is one of the great detestable characters of literature]; (4) Emma [such a great cast of characters and I agree that the development of Emma’s maturity over the course of the novel is masterfully handled by Austen]; (3) Sense and Sensibility [I greatly admire the character of Elinor who takes on the responsibility of caring for her family after her father’s death and loves them despite their emotional drama. I also think that Edward Farrars is a well-matched leading man.]; (2) Pride and Prejudice [I re-read this book regularly, and I always discover something new to enjoy. I so enjoy the Bennet family and the cast of characters she created. Austen’s layering of the plot in this book is unparalleled. The quadruple story line of the romances of Elizabeth, Jane, and Lydia Bennet, and of Charlotte Lucas shows a nuanced exploration of the very serious business of marriage for young women at this time. Plus, after recently seeing my own three daughters married off, I have new respect for Mr. And Mrs. Bennet!]; (1) Persuasion [My clear favorite at this stage of life as I am able to look back and see the importance of making choices based on one’s own prospects of happiness and fulfillment rather than choosing only to please others. Anne Elliot is a great character who also learns from her mistakes, and is able to think independently despite the well-intentioned advice of friends and family.] Wow, this comment was way too long, but I agree that all 6 of Austin’s major books are great. I would (and will) read them all again!
My first place is without a doubt Persuasion.
I just found your video, and I after with your ranking, though the top two are tied for me, and I might put NA above Persuasion. Thank you for your words about Edmund. He is truly an underrated character and my favorite after Mr. Knightley. Excellent ranking!
Thank you for your “unpopular” opinion in rating Mansfield Park so highly. Most people don’t like it but I also rate it 2nd, with Emma at #1.
One of my favorite writing techniques that Austen employs is her use of letters. So much of the characters’ personalities and also important plot points are revealed in the form of letters.
“Persuasion” and “P&P” are my number one Austen novels. Captain Wenworth’s letter is amazing.
I’d rank “Northananger Abbey” sixth; however, it got me to read “The Mysteries of Udolpho.” :)
FINALLY! Someone who loves Mansfield Park as much as I do ❤ Can you do a breakdown of Mansfield Park!? Ranking (1-6): Mansfield Park, Persuasion, S&S, P&P, Emma, NA
I'm so happy to come across someone who sees Mansfield Park in high regard! I rank Northanger Abbey (lowest), Emma, Mansfield Park, Sense & Sensibility, P&P and Persuasion (highest)....Mansfield Park and S &S change places from time to time!
Excellent video. RUclips is full of videos ranking Jane Austen novels but most of them appear to be based on the most superficial of readings. That is not the way of this channel of course. I enjoyed listening to Tristan’s insights. I find that I rank the novels in two ways. The first is simply by trying to assess honestly which I enjoy most. The second is based on my admiration for them as, in some cases brilliant, works of art. There is some overlap between these judgement criteria since of course my pleasure is influenced by my perception of how wonderfully clever some of them are. In terms of simple enjoyment my ranking is 6 Northanger Abbey, 5 Sense and Sensibility, 4 Mansfield Park, 3 Emma, 2 Pride and Prejudice, 1. Persuasion ( I must have a romantic side, it seems). Based on a deeper judgement the order emerges as follows. 6. Northanger Abbey: for some reason I have never been able to get on with this one - my fault no doubt. 5. Sense and Sensibility: if this were Jane Austen’s only surviving work we should still admire her. I am fascinated by the character of Lucy Steele. Very subtly drawn - we are almost made to feel that an intelligent girl like Lucy, faced with the consequences of her station in society, has almost no choice but to act as she does. Nonetheless, she is the subject of one of Jane Austen’s most breathtakingly devastatingly ironical sentences. “ Lucy’s behaviour…may be held forth as a most encouraging instance of what an…unceasing attention to self-interest…will do in securing every advantage of fortune, with no other sacrifice than that of time and conscience.” 4. Persuasion: unique in tone, deeply touching, perhaps the most overtly critical of the emptiness of Regency high society. 3. Pride and Prejudice: full to the brim of great characters, many hilarious - Elizabeth, Darcy, Mr Bingley, Jane, Wickham, Mrs Bennet, Mr Bennet, Miss Bingley (brilliantly played by Anna Chancellor in the best adaptation), Mr Collins (!of course), Lady De Bourgh (oh Lady De Bourgh!). We also have the highly interesting, utterly unsentimental character of Charlotte Lucas whose “rational” actions give such material for discussion. 2. Mansfield Park: a really great novel. We see the heroism of Fanny, the observer who alone sees things as they really are and who from her impossibly weak position holds out against the strongest of forces and remains true to her principles. We also see just how attractive the Devil can make himself - and herself - appear. Yet it is Maria and Mrs Norris (the most irredeemably sadistic Jane Austen villainess) who suffer the greatest Dantesque punishment. Throw in a spot of symbolism for good measure. 1. Emma: a literary tour de force. Jane Austen is known for her ironic mode of expression but the action can throw up ironies too - one great, shocking, ironic moment is when Emma suddenly sees what terrible consequences her meddling potentially has for her own happiness. We are also treated to one of the most toe-curlingly embarrassing scenes in literature (at Box Hill) - up there with the famous Mr Elton and Mr Darcy’s marriage proposals. But just as important in the novel is what Emma does not see and which the reader does not see and which is happening in the background. The novel can be looked on as a detective story but a very special one in that you are not told, in spite of a few hints, that there is anything to discover. Genius! Some people regard Jane Austen as cruel. I don’t agree but if you wanted to find evidence you might see it in the torment through which she puts the long-suffering Jane Fairfax - to my mind one of the most sympathetic characters in fiction.
Thank you for a great comment with interesting insights.
I read all those books many times, and i didn't think I will learn something, or enjoy this kind of video, but I did! Thank you
Emma is my favorite Austen's novel so far and Persuasion my deception... I did enjoy Lady Susan a lot 😊... Merci for the video
I've always felt a strong connection to Emma more than any of Jane Austen's other heroines, so when people say she's not likable, I'm not sure what to think, haha! 😂 Emma was actually the first Austen novel I read, so it holds a special place in my heart. My top 3 favourites that are always vying for the top spot in my ranking are Emma, Pride & Prejudice, and Persuasion. The bottom 3 usually stay consistent over the years, with Northanger Abbey coming next, followed by Sense & Sensibility, and lastly Mansfield Park. Although, I do agree that Mansfield Park is the richest one to study and analyze in depth. I just love them all! Great video!
My rankings: 6-Sense and Sensibility, 5-Persuasion, 4-Northanger Abby, 3-Pride & Prejudice. 2-Mansfield Park, 1- Emma which was my first Austen novel and it has always had a special place in my favorites. Mansfield Park was the last Austen I read and I was blown away by it. It’s one of those that continues to present itself in the forefront of my mind. My two favorite heroins are Jane Eyre and Emma, thus my user name😊
What a surprise! Never would have guessed what your top two are! Very original choices well thought out and hard to rank given its Jane Austen. Looking forward to seeing your next video.
Love this video!
My ranking:
1 Pride and Prejudice
2 Emma
3 Persuasion
4 Sense and Sensibility
5 Northanger Abbey
6 Mansfield Park
Emma isn't the only daughter because her sister married the brother of Mr Nightly. Or maybe Am I wrong and it was only a license of the movie version?😅
A very nice ranking. I am fond of Pride and Prejudice but I have to admit you are right. Bravo! 😊👏🏻
I really enjoyed this ranking. Your insights on Emma was very interesting.
My friend, the other day said, that her favourite Jane Austen's novel is the last one she was reading. It is always
But if I had to make the Ranking
Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion are both first
Emma
Northanger Abbey
Sense and Sensibility
Mansfield Park
Thank you for all your videos, and for this in particular
Thank you. I never liked Emma but reread it after listening to you. I liked it much more this time around. My list: 1. Persuasion 2. Pride and Prejudice 3. Sense and Sensibility 4. Emma 5. Mansfield Park 6. Northanger Abbey.
I really like this ranking and the insightful comments.and recommendations!
I’m enjoying a Jane Austen deep dive this year and so I’m waiting to see where that leaves my ranking once I’m finished.
I used to say Emma was my favorite when I’d only read them all once, but now that I’ve read them all a few times, I’m not quite sure anymore. My latest reading of Mansfield was last year and I really appreciated that Fanny is a rare, introverted protagonist, and I agree that she is wonderful.
I also really appreciated your insights and had never thought about before how very different all of the novels really are in their overall tone. It really does show Austen’s genius. 🥰💖👏
My current rankings - and I stress current because my rankings have shifted over the years:
1. Pride and Prejudice
2. Northanger Abbey
3. Emma
4. Persuasion
5. Sense and Sensibility
6. Mansfield Park
Lady Susan would fit in the top three somewhere.
I appreciate this video. Jane Austen is one of my favorite authors. I've read all six of these, although it's been about 25+ years. I can't really rank them, although I might put Northanger Abbey at the bottom. It's delightful, but not as rich (in my recollection) as the others. Austen's humor and sense of irony is a delight, and her keen and compassionate perception of human nature is compelling in all of these works.
I simply cannot do it -- props to you for actually managing such a list. Every time I read them, the order of preference changes. On a Desert Island Discs scenario I would have as my luxury item the Delphi (or similar) Complete Works of Jane Austen 💕🤣
This is deeply difficult and I might have a different answer tomorrow but for me, in this moment, it's probably:
6 Sense & Sensibility
5 Persuasion
4 Mansfield Park
3 Emma
2 Pride & Prejudice (Disclaimer: It's hard to say for sure, but I feel like this ranking might be partially due to mere familiarity as I've read it several more times than any of the others)
1 Northanger Abbey (I can't help it. I love a humorous book!)
Hard to rank them, as you say. But I have found over the span of my life that my favorite Jane Austen novel keeps changing as I grow and change. My last place would be Northanger Abbey - had a hard time getting through it initially, but ultimately loved it; 5th place is S&S (though the movie was excellent!); #4 Emma (she grates on my nerves because she hits too close to home to me at that age (LOL!); as for the rest, they've each been #1 with me at different points, #2 is a tie between Mansfield Park and Persuasion with P&P #1. It is SO funny, and I've read it more than any other book (6x, 7x?) because I get new insights every time I read it!
Tristan, I have won the Jane Austen lottery! Your list is my list. I think Emma is my favourite novel; I return to it again and again, and I'd love to be able to read it again for the first time so I can be surprised by all the plot twists.
Something I appreciate so much is how well developed all the subplots are. To me, that's the main flaw in Persuasion, and it feels unfinished.
I always recommend starting Austen with P&P, maybe because I did. Wonderful video, thank you.😊
I love to hear your thoughts about Austen. Personally, I would rank them like this:
1. Pride and Prejudice
2. Northanger Abbey
3. Mansfield Park
4. Emma
5. Persuasion
6. Sense and Sensibility
To be honest, Persuasion would probably be way higher if Austen hadn't died so early. Emma is so low for me because the fandom has soured it.
Love the video! Would love you to do the same for Dickens.
I read my entire Jane Austen collection during the horrendous lockdown which I was sweer to adhere to but it got me through part of it. I didn't think I'd read them again for many years having read them several times already. But watching this, Tristan, I might pick them up again tomorrow! And I pretty much agree with your running order except I'd probably swap Persuasion with Mansfield Park.
1. Persuasion is the best imo.
2. Mansfield Park
3. Pride and Prejudice
4. Emma
5. Sense and Sensibility
6. Northanger Abby
Yes! Emma! I love this story. I have always found it humorous. I find Jane Austen very tongue in cheek humorous.
Thank you. I haven’t read Jane Austen, but I surely will after this enthusiastic ranking
The thing I love about Austen is my ability to find something new on every rereading. Her depth is remarkable. I’m not sure I can honestly list them, they have a tendency to slip by each other while I’m not looking. However, I do find myself bereft if I go longer than a year without reading P&P. I’ve been doing it for over 40 years, it’s a comfort, a privilege and a joy.
👏🏻Enjoyed that! Appreciate the insights! I will try Pride and Prejudice again. Would love to get past the first chapter. 🤔
Excellent vlog Tristan
Thanks Tristan. Pls do a review of Lady Susan.
What a fantastic analysis of those books, I loved your ranking and insight and the way you expressed your views😊
Thank you for this, Tristan! I've read some of Austen's books but this video makes me want to go read all of them!
Persuasion tops my list, followed by P&P. irrespective of relative quality, I do enjoy Northanger Abby. The rest are impossible for me to rank. Loved this video!
I'm not going to rank them, because I've only reread Persuasion and Emma. I need to be more acquainted with the books first. But I must say, I am so glad for your number one choice because it is so so underrated. It was my first Jane Austen when I was in my 20s, and I just reread it last year at age 31 and it blew me away! And now I must request that you do a sort of lecture on how to read Austen "properly," as you say, because I like to read an Austen book every year (I'm doing Pride and Prejudice this summer), and I find her work so complex that I often get the sense I'm not reading it as deeply as I could be. Oh and I adore Fanny Price!
My ranking: #6 Sense and Sensibility. #5 Mansfield Park #4 Persuasion #3 Northanger Abbey #2 Emma #1 Pride and Prejudice. As you have made clear, our rankings are entirely subjective. My original favorite was Pride and Prejudice; my favorite books to read these days are Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. I think one's favorite depends on one's time of life and one's mood.
They're all great. A lady gave me a huge book with all of them. Wow! She's my favorite person!
In my rank of J.Austen's novels - Persuasion is #1. As for P&P's TV and cinematography adaptations - 1980 TV series is in the first place to me (so even above the version with Colin Firth😂)
A very interesting vid, by the way.
Thanks Tristan for one more excellent video. Fantastic analysis these books. 👏🏼👏🏼🇧🇷
So interesting to hear your thoughts!
My own order is probably 6) Mansfield Park, 5) Northanger Abbey, 4) Sense and Sensibility, 3) Persuasion, 2) Pride and Prejudice, 1) Emma. My reason for putting Mansfield Park last is that I find all the characters kind of unlikeable. In particular Fanny strikes me as being quite sanctimonious which is a quality that gets in my nerves. However I read it as a teenager so might feel differently now… Northanger Abbey is amusing but nothing much more than that. I really like the questions posed in Sense and Sensibility and love the scene at the beginning when Marianne faints and has to be carried home by a handsome stranger (Willoughby) 😂👌. Persuasion is the only book where the character is a bit older and in many ways it’s the most interesting and could be number one. Pride and Prejudice is almost certainly the best and most entertaining story and the characters are the most likeable and relatable, however Emma is also a good story and makes up in depth and insight what it lacks in fun. I’m also fond of Emma as a character because in many ways she reminds me of myself (though perhaps I shouldn’t admit it 🤭). Also, I think it has one of the best opening paragraphs.
22:23 yes. 😂 I made a video ranking Austen heroines a couple years ago, and I talked about how Lizzy’s faults tend to get missed by the reader if the reader doesn’t dig deeper. It’s what frustrates me about Lizzy, but also what makes her so human.
And the BBC version is soooo good!
43:59 so read in order of publication? I agree, especially for the open-minded new reader.
And Mr. Knightley is my favorite Austen hero.
This was very well done........indeed. Thanks for it.
Some other random comments.
It was endearing that you mixed up Mary with Elizabeth in Persuasion. Our minds do play tricks.
BOTH Persuasion and Mansfield Park are very somber compared to Pride and Emma.
I agree with your 6th- and 5-spot choices but diverged on most of the others (no surprise with this magnificent set).
You don't go into the weeds of this, but I believe you (like I do) approach this question of ranking as the distinguishing of merit versus liking.
From the number of rereads, P&P is very much my favorite but I do not consider it her best.
I rank the books by comparing what Jane was trying to achieve given where she was in her life. Emma is a perfect effort, composed in the wheelhouse of her health and experience. P&P is simply delightful. Persuasion has many admirable qualities (much is concentrated to essence), but you can also see the failing health. There is thinly-veiled vitriol present, too. Elizabeth and Mary are more like Cinderella's ugly sisters than flawed but acceptable siblings and their father is not much better.
I've currently just started a reread of Mansfield. It's just not that happy of a book, unfortunately. I can (under my current prejudices) rank it no better than #4.
My 2-spot and winner are, respectively, P&P and Emma.
I like your comparison of Emma and Pip. They change and become better people.
My latest cat (he is quite the pill) is named Pip.
Already shared your site with a friend of mine this morning.
Thank you, Al. I've always thought you a most excellent person. 😃😅👍
@tristanandtheclassics6538 ~You speak of a means to a reader's group.
I am going to read Sense & Sensibility for Jane Austin July...and i just rewatched the Kate Winslet and Emma Thompson version..
Wonderful video! 🩷 I would rank them in a similar way (Northanger Abbey would be last in my list). I also rank Mansfield Park up there with Emma. Mansfield Park definitely deserves more love and a decent BBC adaptation truly faithful to the text and context, don't you think?
Good video, I’ve already read 4 but I’d go
Emma
P&P
Persuasion
S&S
I loved this video and your analysis of each book! I’d love if you did a ranking Dickens as I’m almost through his works now!
Interesting. I enjoy classic novels, but have tended to focus on George Eliot, Dickens and Thomas Hardy, so I only recently decided I'd better fill some gaps and read Jane Austen. I read Emma first, and it was enjoyable, Emma herself was both exasperating and likeable, it was entertaining, and as you say has depth. They're very readable so for anyone who hasn't read her yet it's worth doing.
So nice to see Mansfield Park ranked highly! My ranking:
6. Emma - Emma’s treatment of Harriet felt like a callous social experiment to me in the end, and I didn’t enjoy the Knightly/ Emma romance, even though I liked him as a character. It is the only Austen novel I’ve only read once, though, and it might improve upon a reread.
5. Sense and Sensibility
4. Northanger Abbey
3. Mansfield Park
2. Pride and Prejudice
1. Persuasion
I just finished listening to the Emma audiobook and rewatching the 2009 miniseries. I can’t get enough of this novel!❤
The 2009 miniseries is sublime.
Emma is indeed number 1!
I love Emma because of her flaws She's one of those people that means well, but gets it wrong. She's so funny too.
S&S is not my favorite either. But my least favorite Austen is still heads and tails above many others!
Good point about the theme of balance. I would agree with that.
Yes, NA is so clever and funny. Very enjoyable.
"They all have a particular place in my heart." YES!
P&P and Emma take turns on any given day as my favorite Austen. I love them both, and I'm glad there's someone besides me who loves the character of Emma. OHMYGOODNESS yes about the blind spots!!! I think that to myself all the time when people say they dislike certain characters.
My ranking is same as yours except with P&P and MP flipped.
My favourite is Persuasion, 2 Pride and Prejudice, 3 Mansfield Park, 4 Emma, 5 Sense and Sensibility, 6 Northanger Abbey.
My number one: Persuasion
Two: Mansfield Park
Three: Emma
Four ; P and P
Five: S and S
Six; Northanger Abbey
The P&P section was so good. And yes, Darcy’s marriage proposal is THE WORST marriage proposal EVER. 😅
Loved this video! Jane Austen is my favourite author of all time…although, I am embarrassed to admit that I have yet to tackle Emma.
What are your thoughts on her unfinished work, Sanditon? I read it for the first time last year, and I personally think that if she was able to finish it, it might have been her best work. The hypochondriac siblings were just a hilarious joy to read about. Reading it ultimately filled me with a sort of melancholy thinking about how it will forever be unfinished. At least we have her six finished works to read again and again!
Persuasion is my personal favourite, but, anyway, I love and appreciate your critical comments in this video!
Ranking Austen! What a bold move. This would be like choosing a favourite child. Thank you for sharing your love of Jane Austen with booktube.
Funny you should say that. I've just been studiously weighing up which of my children I like best. 😂😂😂❤️
@@tristanandtheclassics6538 We dare not ask you to rank them. We'll leave that to Mrs Bennet...
My favourite too! Emma, Persuasion, NA, MP, P&P and S&S
Never read Jane Austin or Thomas Hardy. Will be rectifying that this year.
Also, who do you prefer?
Oh I hope you have an enjoyable time. Hardy is my favourite of the two.
Persuasion was the first JA novel I read and I loved it. In fact, it's still my favorite.
My top three alternate but include Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, and Persuasion. I love all of them equally. I think I would put Emma next, then Sense and Sensibility and Northanger Abbey. Even as I type this, I am questioning myself though, as all six novels are marvelous.
This video is a gift!
I absolutely adore Emma for the same reasons you mentioned in this video. However, my favourite is still Pride and Prejudice because it's the first of her books I read and watched the adaptation of (the BBC miniseries). In fact, that was how I was introduced to Jane Austen. Since I'm not from the English speaking world, we didn't read Austen in school.
Alas, my least favourite is Mansfield Park. I don't know why I didn't get along with that book, because I can see that it's masterfully written. Some people don't like Fanny and consider her a boring character, just like Austen's mom, but I actually liked her a lot. I definitely have to reread it.
My ranking:
6. Mansfield Park
5. Northanger Abbey
4. Sense and Sensibility
3. Persuasion
2. Emma
1. Pride and Prejudice
Loved this video! Thank you!
My ranking, for what it’s worth:
6) Mansfield Park
5) Sense and Sensibility
4) Northanger Abbey
3) Emma
2) Pride and Prejudice
1) Persuasion
I'm not sure I could rank them now. When I was younger it would have been Persuasion, Mansfield Park, Pride and Prejudice, Northanger Abbey, Emma and Sense and Sensibility. But really it's so hard to choose, because they're all brilliant. I identified with Anne and Fanny because they were quieter more introspective characters.
Not a fan of Mansfield park. I’m half way through and it is so different to the other books like you said. I’m determined to finish it. But I’ve gone over to read Dracula to have a break from MP lol. I’ll get back into Mansfield park after I’ve read Dracula.
my ranking:
1. persuasion
Are you still doing videos on your other channel? Interesting ranking Jane Austin books that’s a challenging thing to do.
I've read Emma and Sense and Sensibility not so long ago. It's a long time since I read Mansfield Park or Pride and Prejudice - I must get around to reading Pride and Prejudice soon.
Emma is easily my favorite. But I laughed out loud so many times with Sense and Sensibility! The humor is very dry and highly sarcastic but it’s surely there. I enjoyed it very much. Mansfield Park is dead last on my list but only because of the rushed ending! I mean, what the heck Jane? And if I were Fanny I would never had married Edmund. MP has one of my favorite characters I love to hate, Mrs. Norris. I just wish someone would rewrite the ending!!! So my order is Emma, Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion, Northanger Abbey and Mansfield Park.
Thank you. This is valuable.
What about Lady Susan? Or as the movie version titled it, Love and Friendship?