Austen Therapy: Pride and Prejudice and Popular Culture (original) (raw)

The paper explores the phenomenon of "Austen therapy" in relation to Jane Austen's works and their adaptations in popular culture. It discusses how contemporary adaptations, such as Helen Fielding's "Bridget Jones's Diary" and novels like "Me and Mr. Darcy" and "Austenland," provide escapism and therapeutic value for fans of Austen, often reflecting their struggles with modern relationships. Through analysis of various texts and media, the paper argues that the current Austen industry not only satisfies the desire for more Austen but also serves as a space for communal therapeutic discourse, highlighting a distinct cultural appropriation of her legacy.