| This thesis investigates and analyzes Jane Austen’s use of literary allusions as a way of
challenging the gendered restrictions imposed on reading during the eighteenth century. It also
contributes to scholarly conversations surrounding Austen’s work, while shedding light on her
subversive literary strategies and their implications for the policing of reading between genders. I
examine a selection of literary references and allusions found in Persuasion, Sense and
Sensibility, and Northanger Abbey, to discern how they challenge prevailing eighteenth-century
norms that sought to police and restrict women's reading practices. By undertaking this analysis,
I aim to unveil the subversive intent behind Austen’s incorporation of literary allusions,
particularly as they relate to the gendered dynamics of reading during this historical period. In
essence, this research sheds light on the ways Austen employed literary references and allusions
as a nuanced form of rebellion against societal expectations and contributes to a deeper
understanding of how Austen, through her novels, engaged with and contested the limitations
imposed on women’s intellectual pursuits. This exploration is framed within the broader context
of gender studies and literature, offering insights into the intersectionality of literature and
societal norms. The objective is not only to unveil Austen’s defiance but also to situate her works
as vital components of the ongoing dialogue on gender roles, empowerment, and the
transformative potential of literature. By providing a meaningful contribution to the scholarly
discourse surrounding Austen’s legacy, this thesis positions her not only as a literary figure but
also as an advocate for the liberation of women’s intellectual autonomy in the eighteenth century.
Keywords: Jane Austen, Literary Allusions, Gendered Reading, Eighteenth-Century Literature,
Women's Intellectual Autonomy |