From Elizabeth Bennet’s viewing of Mr Darcy’s portrait at Pemberley in Pride and Prejudice to the likeness of Harriet Smith that Mr Elton fawns over in Emma, Jane Austen’s use of portraiture in her novels brings us closer to both her characters and the Georgian world. Marking 250 years since the celebrated novelist’s birth, join us for a talk on portraits in Jane Austen’s fiction by Professor Joe Bray.

Austen’s letters show us that she enjoyed visiting exhibitions and was familiar with the work of the greatest portraitists of her age, including that of Sir Joshua Reynolds. In this talk, Professor Bray discusses the ways in which the portraits that feature in her novels are often a source of misunderstanding, conflict and humour.

And we will of course celebrate her 250^th Birthday with a glass of fizz on arrival!

Start time: 17:30 (Doors open 17:20)

Finish time: 18:30 approx

Glass of fizz on arrival

Location: York Mansion House, St Helen's Square, York, YO1 9QL

Please note we have 2 wheelchair spaces available, please email ymhevents@york.gov.uk or call us on 01904 553663 when booking your tickets to secure a wheelchair space.

Non-refundable