Author(s): Jane. Austen; G. K. Chesterton (Introduction by)

Classics

This consists of a reply from Laura to Isabel. Laura initially disagrees with Isabel's assessment that she is safe from "misfortunes" simply because of her advanced age Austen 516. Laura agrees to write to Marianne and detail her life experiences to "satisfy the curiosity of Marianne" and to teach her useful lessons Poplawski 183. The useful lessons are lessons learned from the misfortunes caused by "disagreeable lovers" and "obstinate fathers" Poplawski 183. Poplawski highlights the importance of the relationship between females and their lovers and also between females and their fathers as a means through which Austen is able to criticise stereotypical female behaviour. As seen throughout the work, these two relationships are constantly criticised by satirical anecdotes. Janetta's relations with her father and with her lover, Capitan M'Kenzie in the twelfth letter, shows Austen mocking the fickleness of family ties and romantic relationships.