READERS GUIDE
Questions and Topics for Discussion
How does the structure of this novella (a series of letters) affect the plot, the experience of reading the novella, and how we see the characters?
Whose side of the story do you believe? Were any of the characters unbiased? Why or why not?
How do the women in this novella claim agency over their own actions and futures? Give some examples of how each character accesses their free will in this novel.
What is the role of perception in this novella? How do other people’s perceptions around intent, character, and relationships drive the plot? What does Austen tell us about how we perceive others?
There is a complex tension between mothers and daughters in this novella. How do you see this play out? Why is the relationship between mother and daughter so important, and so complicated?
What are the power dynamics in this novella? Who holds power? Does this change throughout the course of the novella? How do characters exert their power?
What is the effect of having the conclusion told by an omniscient third person narrator? Does the detached narration at the end change your understanding of the novel or your opinions on any of the characters?
Gossip is, and always has been, a powerful tool particularly as a form of communication and knowledge sharing for women in a world built on patriarchy. What points do you think Austen is making about the nature of gossip?
Lady Susan is a subversive female character, who is shamed for her trickery and coquette-ery by characters in the text and by readers alike. Do you think Austen is shaming this behavior? Why or why not? 10. What did you think of the ending? Do the characters get what they deserve? Why or why not?
What do you make of the male characters in this novella? Do they have sway over the women in their lives? How do their characteristics inform the power dynamics within the novella?
How would we treat Lady Susan in modern times? Would she be described as a “pick-me” girl? Is she a character that a modern audience respects or condemns?
