One of eight children, Jane grew up in a close-knit family, with her older brother Henry later becoming her literary agent. With his help, Jane saw her first novel, Sense and Sensibility published in 1811. The piece was a financial success, leading to the subsequent publication of Pride and Prejudice (1813), Mansfield Park (1814) and Emma (1816).  

Jane Austen died on July 18^th 1817, with Northanger Abbey and Persuasion published posthumously in 1818, along with them a biographical notice, written by her brother, which was the first formal announcement of her authorship. She left three works, Lady Susan, The Watsons and Sanditon, unfinished at her death, all have been subsequently released.