Abstract
This paper aims to explore the complexity surrounding the alternate family dynamics in Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility (1811), Pride and Prejudice (1813) and Emma (1815). By incorporating Walter Toman’s Family Constellation: Its Effects on Personality and Behaviour theory to Austen’s characters, provides an alternative perspective on characters. Through applying this theory alongside Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory and Practice, this paper reveals the complexity of family relationships. Through analysing the efforts of mothers and fathers within the novels through this psychological lens creates an alternate perspective on Austen’s characters. Additionally, both theories when applied to the theme of sisterhood within two of the novels justify the impact of sibling position and the power of subsets within larger families. Therefore, this thesis argues that family systems theory can offer a contemporary perspective on the impact of family relations within Jane Austen’s novels.
Keywords
Jane Austen, Family Life, Parenting Styles, Sibling Positions, Murray Bowen
How to Cite
Whitworth, L., (2025) “Mothers, fathers, and sisters within a selection of Jane Austen’s novels”, Fields: journal of Huddersfield student research 10(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.5920/fields.1613
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