2. “... Take possession before Michaelmas...” (Page 3):
Michaelmas is a day when Christians celebrate with a feast in honor of St. Michael. Michaelmas is the 29th of September and marks the beginning of the Fall season. It is named after Michael or St. Michael who is referenced in the bible as the head of the angels. According to "Chambers' Book of Days" it is common for rents to be paid, and burgal magistracies and councils are re-elected on this day in England. Furthermore, it is a widespread tradition to eat goose at dinner on this day. Austen may have acknowledged this day in the beginning of her book to show the role that society will play in this book. Austen is giving the reader a since that social standings, connections, and politics will play a major role in Pride and Prejudice.
"Michaelmas." © Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.. Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc.. 13 Mar. 2010. Dictionary.com http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Michaelmas.
"September 29th." The Hyperlinked & Searchable Chambers' 1869 'The Book of Days' Web. 25 Feb. 2010. http://www.thebookofdays.com/months/sept/29.htm.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment