Like the rest of her Juvenilia, this short work sparkles with wit and unconventionality. You may now view the whole manuscript on the site of the British Library. All the more precious and interesting because of the illustrations by Jane’s elder sister Cassandra Elizabeth.
Much has been written on those, with Jane herself often being recognized in the lovely medallion portrait of Mary Queen of Scots, whom she greatly admired.
Some also recognize Mrs. Austen mère in the less flattering image of Queen Elizabeth I in an anachronistic 18th century dress.
As often with Jane and her family, these remains mysterious and open to various and sometimes diverging interpretations… Enjoy!
Huge thanks to Catherine Delors for this post.
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