Jane Austen and Her Times

"Jane Austen and Her Times" by G. E. Mitton is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book examines the life and works of Jane Austen, alongside the social, cultural, and historical contexts in which she lived. It seeks to present not only Austen's literary contributions but also the environment of 18th-century England that shaped her experiences and writings, offering insight into the contemporary society she depicted in her novels. The opening of the book introduces the challenges of detailing Jane Austen's life due to the limited biographical information available. It emphasizes Austen’s unique insight into human nature, highlighted by her sharp humor and social observations. Mitton aims to provide a broader understanding of Jane Austen by exploring the societal norms, culture, and personal connections that influenced her work, revealing the contrast between her seemingly simple life and the significant historical events occurring around her, such as the French Revolution. Through this blend of biography and social history, the text illuminates Austen's status as both a remarkable individual and a product of her era. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Geraldine Edith Mitton, pen name G. E. Mitton, was an English novelist, biographer, editor, and guide-book writer. Born in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, she was the third daughter of Rev. Henry Arthur Mitton, a master of Sherburn Hospital. In 1896, she moved to London, where she worked with Walter Besant on his survey of London. In 1899 she joined the staff of the publishing company A & C Black, where she was on the editorial staff of Who's Who. She married colonial administrator Sir George Scott in 1920, becoming his third wife. She collaborated with Scott on several novels set in Burma, and wrote his biography, Scott of the Shan Hills, which was published in 1936, the year after his death.