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Listening at the door, 1896 (engraving)
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Listening at the door, 1896 (engraving)
2962873 Listening at the door, 1896 (engraving) by Thomson, Hugh (1860-1920); Private Collection; (add.info.: From Chapter 38 of Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen (1775-1817) first published 1818. This edition published in 1921 by Macmillan and Co. using Thomsons plates from 1896.
Nancy Steele tells Elinor how she heard her sister Lucy and Edward re-affirm their engagement: " La! Miss Dashwood, do you think people make love when anybody else is by? Oh! for shame? -- To be sure you must know better than that." (Laughing affectedly.) -- " No, no; they were shut up in the drawing-room together, and all I heard was only by listening at the door." ); British, out of copyright
Media ID 23444708
© Bridgeman Images
Austen Dashwood Eavesdropping Elinor Listening Lucy Nancy Regency
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving, titled "Listening at the door, 1896" takes us back to the elegant world of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. Created by Hugh Thomson in 1896, this print captures a pivotal moment from Chapter 38 of Austen's beloved novel. In this scene, Nancy Steele confides in Elinor about an intriguing encounter she overheard between Lucy and Edward. The illustration beautifully depicts Nancy leaning against a closed door with an air of mischief and curiosity. Her face is animated as she relays her discovery to Elinor, who listens attentively. Thomson's attention to detail transports us to the Georgian era, showcasing the refined society of the time. The elaborate costumes worn by Miss Steele and Elinor reflect their social status while adding depth to their characters. The artist skillfully captures not only the physical setting but also the emotions conveyed through body language and facial expressions. Through Nancy's laughter and affected mannerisms, we can sense her delight in sharing this secret with Elinor. This enchanting print serves as a visual representation of one of Austen's most memorable scenes—a testament to Thomson's ability to bring literature alive through his illustrations. It allows us a glimpse into Regency England while reminding us that human nature remains timeless—filled with intrigue, secrets, and moments worth eavesdropping on.
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