Northenger Abbey OR Sense and Sensibility Literature & Language Essay

Northanger Abbey
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September 29, 2020
Understanding the importance of literary scenes in novels concerning the overall context of the piece is essential for any reader. This is more particularly true for older novels in which some of the thematic expressions and ideas are based on the societal circumstance surrounding those times. In this article, the author would like to analyze one of the funniest themes that happened in Austen’s (1803) book entitled The Northanger Abbey. Significantly, this scene comes from Volume I, Chapter XV of the book, where both Catherine and Isabella are both engaged in an interaction with one another. What makes this scene funny from the author’s perspective is that taken from the context of that time, Catherine’s reaction was obtuse and hilarious compared to what others would have done. Finally, before analyzing the scene itself, the author believes that it is vital to have an initial idea of the societal context that exists during those times.
The Societal Context of the Novel
It must be noted that Austen’s novel was written during the Romantic Era of art. The Romantic movement happened back during the 1800s to the 1890s and is mainly characterized by several themes by extreme mental states, a strong sense of individualism, and the idea of revolution and liberty, among others CITATION YSUnd \l 1033 (YSU.Edu, n.d.). In other words, literature written during those days was mostly created to evoke strong emotions and to show the capacities of an individual. However, it must also be noted that a patriarchal society still dominated the Romantic era and that gender role plays a considerable part in the people’s mindset. One example that evidence this mindset could be seen in the mode of inheritance wherein the males are given all the estate and the females are required to depend on the males upon the passing of the deceased. Accordingly, this is the reason why females tend to ‘prioritize’ becoming feminine and looking for a wealthy husband rather than trying to build their careers or improve their knowledge, among others.
Now that the societal circumstance surrounding those times are laid down, the next section would then highlight the funniest part of Austen’s novel and analyze why it is considered humorous.
The Funniest Scene in the Northanger Abbey
As stated earlier, the funniest scene in Austen’s novel happened when Catherine gave Isabella a “look of wondering ignorance” after the latter talked to her. Specifically, Isabella said while hugging Catherine, “Yes, my dear Catherine, it is so indeed; your penetration has not deceived you. - Oh! that arch eye of yours! - It sees through everything”.
What makes this scene funny was the fact that it shows Catherine’s lack of (or flawed) perception. The main character Isabella was a perfect representation of a woman who is the product of the Romantic period who would do anything to get the wealthy man. In line with the whole story, it could be seen that Isabella was a scheming and cunning woman who would deceive, cheat, and lie to men to have her hands on the...