Sessions Dates:
Fridays, May 1, 2026 - June 5, 2026
11:00 a.m - Noon

In addition to the course fee, you are required to purchase:
Mansfield Park, Oxford World’s Classics, ed. Kinsley 9780199535538

Emma, Oxford World’s Classics, ed. Mullan 9780198837756

Pride and Prejudice, any edition

This class will meet in USC’s Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, which owns first editions of Austen’s major works. Students will read and discuss Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Mansfield Park, and they will study related materials from the culture of Austen’s time. Each of six, hour-long meetings will be divided between discussion of the novels and close study of original editions and related materials, which will include botanical and architectural illustrations, abolitionist texts, and aesthetic theory. Students will learn about Austen’s literary influences, printing history, and the aesthetic, political, and scientific ideas that shaped her writing – all through direct engagement with eighteenth- and nineteenth-century books at USC.  

Once you have paid in full, you will receive a course reminder email approximately one week before the class starts with the course online instructions. If at any time you have any questions, please call us at 803-777-9444 or email pep@mailbox.sc.edu.

Please note: Space is limited and your seat in the course is not confirmed until payment is received. Additionally, payment must be received at least seven days prior to the start of the course by Noon EST on the seventh day.