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Eudora Welty singles out for praise Austen's "habit of…

“Eudora Welty singles out for praise Austen's "habit of seeing both sides of her own subject - of seeing it indeed in the round". ... Both men and women can be vain about their appearances, selfish about money, overawed by rank, and limited by parochialism; both men and women can function capably…” quote by Emily Auerbach
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““Eudora Welty singles out for praise Austen's "habit of seeing both sides of her own subject - of seeing it indeed in the round". ... Both men and women can be vain about their appearances, selfish about money, overawed by rank, and limited by parochialism; both men and women can function capably, think profoundly, feel deeply, create imaginatively, laugh wittily, and love faithfully. Without vindicating the rights of anyone directly, Austen posits a humanism far ahead of her time. "How really modern she is, after all," Welty concludes of Austen.””

Emily Auerbach

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A literary critique praising Austen’s balanced perspective and humanism, noting her modern relevance.

In simple terms: Austen’s balanced view shows deep humanism and modern insight.

Key Takeaway

Appreciate nuanced, balanced perspectives.

Themes

literature humanism gender

Mood

thoughtful appreciative

Type

analysis explanatory

When to use this quote

  • academic essays
  • book clubs
  • personal study

Key Concepts

critical analysis historical context authorial intent

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does balanced perspective affect storytelling?
  • What modern issues reflect Austen’s insights?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations may vary by reader.

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