In this special Q&A episode we've asked a panel of Jane Austen experts to answer your questions!

We’ve received a virtual sack full of letters from you, ranging from questions about Austen’s religious beliefs to her grasp of contemporary science, and even what she might have made of social media. Unlike Jane’s sister Cassandra Austen, however, we have no intention of throwing your letters into the flames.

Joining host Anna Walker to discuss your questions are Emma Claire Sweeney, a senior lecturer in creative writing at the Open University, John Mullan, professor of literature at University College London and Lizzie Dunford, director of Jane Austen’s House in Hampshire.

Jane Austen's Paper Trail is a podcast from The Conversation celebrating 250 years since Jane Austen's birth.

You can also sign up to receive a free Jane Austen 250 ebook from The Conversation, bringing together a collection of our articles celebrating her life and works.

Host: Anna Walker

Senior Producer and Sound Design: Eloise Stevens

Executive Producer: Gemma Ware

Artwork: Naomi Joseph and Alice Mason

The Conversation is an independent, not-for-profit news organisation. If you like the show, please consider donating to support our work. You can sign up here for a free daily newsletter from The Conversation here.

• How Jane Austen’s landscapes mapped women’s lives
• Inside the Regency ballroom: what you’d experience on a night out with Jane Austen
• Why Jane Austen readers still leave letters at her graveside