The Reception of Jane Austen and Walter Scott

This book explores the contrasting receptions of two iconic novelists, tracing their popularity and influence from the 19th century to today. The Reception of Jane Austen and Walter Scott provides valuable insights into literary history.

In The Reception of Jane Austen and Walter Scott, Annika Bautz presents a comprehensive study of the enduring legacy of two of the most significant novelists of the Romantic period. Both Jane Austen and Walter Scott have remained influential figures since the publication of their works, continuously reprinted and widely discussed. Bautz meticulously examines the factors that contributed to Scott's remarkable popularity in the 19th century, establishing him as the most admired and widely read novelist of his time. However, she also highlights the dramatic decline in his readership during the 20th century, contrasting it with Austen's steadily rising popularity, which has ultimately surpassed that of Scott in contemporary literary circles.

Bautz utilizes a diverse array of indicators to analyze the reception of both authors, including sales figures, library lending statistics, critical reviews, and personal correspondences. This detailed approach allows her to map the shifting literary tastes and cultural dynamics that have influenced how readers perceive and engage with these two iconic writers over the centuries. By focusing on different interpretative communities, she reveals the complex interplay between literature and the evolving cultural landscape.

As the first comparative longitudinal study grounded in empirical evidence, The Reception of Jane Austen and Walter Scott offers valuable insights for scholars interested in Romanticism, Victorian literature, and cultural history. Bautz's work not only sheds light on the changing fortunes of these authors but also invites readers to consider the broader implications of literary reception and the factors that shape our understanding of literary greatness.