Austen and Race

The organization that runs Jane Austen’s House museum announced that a refresh of the exhibits will include information about slavery and colonialism during Austen’s time and her own family’s ties to the slave trade. The announcement touched a nerve for some fans who’d rather not see Jane Austen judged through a 21st-century lens on race and privilege. Other fans, like Lauren Wethers, think Jane Austen’s work becomes more meaningful when you read it critically. Wethers is Black and has a master’s in English literature. She’s co-host of the podcast Reclaiming Jane.