An academic discusses Austenmania

'Where once it was customary for academic critics to see Jane Austen's works as the opposite of popular culture, some now find affinities between her novels and many much-loved 20th-century forms of entertainment. Whether designated as mother or sisters, her novels are claimed as kin to Regency romances, detective fiction, chick lit, and screwball comedies.' More here. Why is Jane Austen popular? Because she's a great woman writer -- of woman, for woman, and by a woman. She's both frothy and deep. Pride and Prejudice is one of rare breed. A perfect work of art. Also, a perfect template. So is Emma. There is only one woman writer greater -- George Eliot.