She was buried there because she was the daughter of a rector — but now the English Regency novelist Jane Austen may prove to be the savior of a cathedral emerging from its own Austen-worthy drama.
Literary fans have long flocked to Winchester, England, and its medieval cathedral to visit the grave of Austen, famed for such novels as “Pride and Prejudice” and “Sense and Sensibility.” This year marks the 250th anniversary of the writer’s birth, and the Winchester Cathedral has organized a series of events, from church services to afternoon teas, talks and even a Regency ball.
The Austen anniversary will surely prove a steady source of income for a church running on a deficit — but just as well, the celebrations may offer a much-needed diversion from the social troubles besetting the congregation in southern England.
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