While there are many novels in our era and prior to our era that have unhappy endings, novelist Jane Austen did not write any of them. Austen’s novels end, for the good characters, just as we would hope. “I am the happiest creature in the world,” writes Elizabeth Bennett about her engagement near the end of Pride and Prejudice. “Perhaps other people have said so before,” she goes on, “but not one with such justice.” How marvelous. Or is it?

Beginning on Thursday, January 14, Dr. Tiffany Schubert will be teaching a free six-week distance learning class entitled “‘This Holiday of Spirits’: Jane Austen, Courtly Love, and Happy Endings.” This podcast conversation with Dr. Schubert will give you a taste of what's to come.

Visit our website for more information on this free course and to sign up.