News Summary
Lander University celebrated Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with a charming Regency Tea Party, engaging students, faculty, and local residents in literary discussions and fun activities. Attendees donned Regency-era costumes, enjoyed delicious treats, and participated in interactive vintage activities, including sealing letters with wax. The event aimed to promote literacy and community engagement while connecting generations through Austen’s timeless works.
Greenwood Celebrates Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday in Style
In a delightful twist of history and literature, Lander University rolled out the red carpet for a Regency Tea Party to commemorate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. This engaging event saw a unique blend of students, faculty, and local residents connecting over the literary works of one of England’s most beloved authors.
Getting into Character
Dressed to the nines in stunning Regency-era attire, students like Kikker Eppley and Alexi Noriega transformed the university’s campus into a charming time capsule reminiscent of Austen’s world. Their attention to detail in costumes helped everyone feel as if they’d stepped straight into one of Austen’s novels, adding an extra layer of fun to the festivities.
Community Connections
The event wasn’t just a school affair. Residents from nearby Wesley Commons joined in the celebration, bridging the gap between generations and giving everyone a taste of literary history. The attendees, young and old, delighted in the sense of community, and for many Wesley Commons residents, it was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, showcasing how the university has evolved over the years.
Interactive Vintage Activities
One of the highlights of the afternoon was an interactive activity where guests had the opportunity to experiment with sealing letters using wax. This hands-on approach to history provided a deeper appreciation for the era in which Austen lived. Attendees, young and old, marveled at the artistry and effort that went into communication in the 18th and early 19th centuries—something that’s all but lost in today’s digital age.
A Party Fit for a Novelist
Of course, no birthday celebration would be complete without cake. Attendees like Zoe Starr savored a delicious birthday cake while mingling with fellow Austen enthusiasts. The delightful array of treats and the lovely atmosphere made it an afternoon to remember, full of laughter and literary discussions.
Literary Discussions and Screenings
To further celebrate Austen’s remarkable contributions to literature, the event also featured discussions led by professors from the Department of English and Foreign Languages. One engaging topic was the comparison of Austen’s works to the popular Netflix series “Bridgerton,” igniting a lively exchange about the enduring relevance of Austen’s themes in modern storytelling.
Following the discussions, attendees were treated to a screening of “Emma,” one of Austen’s most cherished novels. Watching the film served as a lovely way to unwind while promoting a genuine love for literature and the arts.
Promoting Literacy and Community Engagement
The event reflected broader goals at Lander University for literacy outreach, described as both fun and engaging. Virginia Scoggins, an assistant professor, expressed the importance of such events in promoting a passion for reading in the community. Meanwhile, students like Carly Rogers shared heartfelt stories about how reading “Pride and Prejudice” inspired their love for literature and motivated their writing journeys.
Cultivating Relationships Through Literature
The organizing team, featuring the likes of Scoggins and Cindi Webb, understood the significance of fostering connections between Lander’s English majors and local residents. Their efforts were instrumental in bringing together people from various backgrounds to revel in the joy of literature.
In Summary
Lander University’s celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday encapsulated the spirit of community, camaraderie, and a shared love for literature. As attendees walked away with fond memories, it was evident that moments like these not only honor the legacy left by great authors but also breathe life into the stories that continue to connect us all.
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Lander University Celebrates Jane Austen’s 250th Birthday
- Wikipedia: Jane Austen
- Cosmopolitan: Kirsty Greenwood Excerpt
- Google Search: Jane Austen
- Literary Hub: On Jane Austen’s Politics
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jane Austen
- MovieWeb: Best Jane Austen Performances
- Google News: Jane Austen Celebration
Author: HERE Greenwood
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