Jane Austen and the Gothic: Northanger Abbey
Join us for a fascinating evening exploring the life and work of
Jane Austen, with a special focus on the gothic themes found in her novel Northanger Abbey.
Our speaker, Louise Robertson, Incoming Chair of the Jane Austen Society London Branch, will discuss Austen’s life and literary world while highlighting the importance of architecture and place within the novel. Louise’s particular interest lies in architectural history, and she will explore how buildings, landscapes, and interiors play a crucial role in shaping the story and atmosphere of Northanger Abbey.
Louise works in the heritage sector and is currently undertaking a Master’s degree in Building History at the University of Cambridge.
Her enthusiasm for eighteenth-century literature and architecture makes this talk both engaging and insightful.
This talk is part of the Hampstead Summer Festival 2026 and is linked to this year’s performances of Northanger Abbey in the Keats Community Library garden.
The novel will be brought to life in a family-friendly open-air production by the professional touring theatre group The Moving Parts Theatre Company, making this talk a perfect introduction to the themes and world of the play.
Whether you are a long-time admirer of Jane Austen or simply curious about the Gothic tradition and the world she wrote in, this promises to be a delightful and thought-provoking evening.
Tuesday 1 July I @7:30 pm
Doors open @7pm
Tickets £12
Available from the library or online at www.wegottickets.com
Keats Community Library, 10 Keats Grove, London NW3 2RR
0207 431 1266
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