Jane Austen and the 21st Century Man

Is it possible that a reclusive novelist from the late-18th century might have anything relevant to communicate to the 21st century male? Could the literary works of Jane Austen, which seem to bear the themes of repressed romance and covert feminism prove formative for an audience so far removed from the realities of her day? What might men learn about themselves from the characters and relationships explored in Austen’s books?

I am in no way an expert on Jane Austen. Sure, I’ve watched the extended A&E version of Pride and Prejudice with my wife on several occasions. I even willingly tuned-in to PBS’s month-long programming last Spring which included film adaptations of many of her works and a movie on her life as well. But I’ve only actually ever read two of her works, Persuasion and Pride and Prejudice. Keep in mind, I’m not very literarily astute, and therefore any prolonged statements on the themes or literary qualities of her books would likely be quite off base. However, despite the fact that her novels center around most things feminine in the late 18th century, I am coming to believe that Austen’s perspectives and ideals have something very profound to say to the average joe today. By taking some time to familiarize yourself with her works (whether by viewing or by reading), you can discover some insightful analysis relating to various aspects of masculinity, not to mention some clues on how to interact with the opposite gender as well.

Along the way Jane Austen has had her share of men enamored by her writings. Did you know that during her life, Jane Austen’s works were greatly admired by the Prince of England at the time? In fact, George IV loved her books so much that he had complete sets in each of his residences. He was even bold enough to solicit Austen to dedicate a forthcoming book to him. Or consider what the well-known 20th century author CS Lewis wrote about Austen in his brief commentary on her works: “Jane Austen's 'principles' might be described as the grammar of conduct."

Although all of Austen’s novels are written and narrated from a female point of view, they have much to say about men. Each of Austen’s novels follows similarly constructed plots revolving around a female’s attraction or attachment to a man. (It’s actually not quite as simple as that.) While characterizations lead to differing outcomes, the men of Austen’s stories seem to bear striking similarities. Whether or not these lead to a construction of an ideal man is not the point I desire to make. Rather, by looking at key characteristics of these men, male readers of Austen can begin to piece together some perceptive perspectives on masculinity and men in general.

In my informal and far from scholarly readings of Austen (again, just two novels so far), masculinity seems directly linked to the idea of being a gentlemen. Writing during a time when principle importance was placed on upholding societal expectations, Austen’s leading men display attributes of chivalry and deliberation that need not be confined to centuries past. (Men of the 21st century take note.) Although they could be accused of being somewhat emotionally distant at times, these men strive to be fully present in the moment. Whether in conversation, business endeavors, or even participation at a ball, Austen’s leading men make it a point to focus on the task (or people) at hand. They are well balanced in their pursuits, and committed to upholding a moral responsibility in all they do. These men also share a deep commitment to their families (which may include siblings, aunts and uncles, etc…) They think about what they say, but can be accused of hiding their true feelings behind what they think. Words such as loyalty, thoughtfulness, and sincerity define these men.

As 21st century guys, we can learn a lot from the attitudes and behaviors displayed in Jane Austen’s novels. While it would be possible to argue that Austen uses her novels to construct attributes of an ideal man (and this may be a very valid point), I believe the qualities that these men posses are worth striving for in our lives. Men today would do well to learn from their ability to be confident without being cocky, chivalrous without being demeaning; maintaining the honor and dignity of the women in our lives, observant and responsive to the needs of those around us, and models of integrity in how we spend our time and resources. It’s probably obvious that I believe masculinity today has been somewhat distorted. Reviving Austen’s ideals would do much to reinvigorate how we as men perceive ourselves, the world (and women) around us, and, in turn, how they perceive us as well.

I believe it is important for us guys to become acquainted with Austen’s stories and the characters within them. Through them we learn something about ourselves. Through them we can learn something about women. We learn about relationships, about romance, and about how to be purposeful in the world in which we live. Austen captures timeless qualities that are relatable and relevant to men in this fast-paced, media-frenzied world of today. So, like Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice, let go of your inhibitions and your pride, release your assumptions about what you thought you knew about Jane Austen, and give one of these books (or movies) a try.

"Miss Austen understood the smallness of life to perfection.”
–Lord Alfred Tennyson