BBC Period Drama "Miss Austen" Receives High Praise
The BBC's four-part period drama Miss Austen, starring Keeley Hawes, has been widely praised by viewers who describe it as an exceptional portrayal of history. The mini-series offers a fresh take on Cassandra Austen, sister of the famous author Jane Austen, with Hawes delivering a compelling lead performance.
Plot Overview
The story is set in 1830 and follows Cassandra as she visits the Fowle household, where Reverend Fowle is gravely ill. Promising to help his daughter Isabella find new accommodations, Cassandra searches for letters Jane Austen wrote to Reverend Fowle's wife, Elizabeth, intending to destroy them. Meanwhile, Mary Austen, widow of Cassandra and Jane's brother James, also seeks the letters to write a biography about her late husband.
Upon finding the correspondence, Cassandra confronts memories of her past: her betrothal to the late Tom Fowle, James' marriage to Mary, family losses, romantic chances, and Jane Austen's growth as a renowned author, as reported by the Express.
Main Cast
- Keeley Hawes as Cassandra Austen
- Patsy Ferran as Jane Austen
- Jessica Hynes as Mary Austen
- Rose Leslie
- Max Irons
- Phyllis Logan
Viewers have praised the drama as "the best of the BBC" and called it a "masterpiece" that left them "heartbroken."
The narrative unfolds through flashbacks, tenderly exploring the personal struggles and relationships within the Austen family.
Author’s summary: "Miss Austen" uniquely captures Cassandra Austen’s untold story, blending emotional depth with historical insight in an acclaimed BBC drama.