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Saturday , September 26 2026

Longleat library first edition reveals Austen’s early fans

Bound in green and brown leather with a gold title, the relatively unassuming volume is among thousands of books in the seven historic libraries at Longleat House.

It is presumed Jane Austen signed her first novel “By a Lady” to maintain her anonymity.

Writing novels for money or public fame was generally considered unfeminine and improper for women of the gentry class during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Her identity as the author only became widely known after Austen’s death in 1817, when her brother Henry identified his sister in a biographical notice.

The libraries at Longleat House contain a total collection of around 44,000 historic books, including first editions of Emma and a second edition of Pride and Prejudice.


BBC News

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