On the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth, take a trip into the world of the English novelist's superfans
InvestigationThey are known as 'Janeites,' these ardent admirers of the author of 'Sense and Sensibility' and 'Pride and Prejudice' who gather in period costume for dinners, balls and conferences dedicated to their idol. Many of them have made their way to Bath for the 10-day Jane Austen Festival in September, which this year celebrates the 250th anniversary of the novelist's birth.
The downpour arrived suddenly. "Shouldn't we finish eating quickly before everything gets soaked?" suggested Jeanette Haslam to Barbara Rogers and Sean and Amy Rix, gesturing toward the delightful sandwiches and raspberry cream desserts laid out on a spotless tablecloth.
The group of friends sat on the grass at the top of Box Hill, a spot famous for its views of the tranquil Surrey countryside, southwest of London. Rather than rushing through their feast, they chose to take out their umbrellas. There was no question of letting the weather ruin the picnic organized around the theme of Emma – the title of Jane Austen's 1815 novel – in which they were participating at the start of July.
Around them, about 30 other guests picked at cherry tomatoes or biscuits, unconcerned about the rain. Everyone was dressed in Regency-style costumes from the early 19th century: high-waisted dresses and ribbon hats for the women, frock coats, waistcoats and buckled shoes for the men.
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