Spare us from romcom Austen. Give me the dark side of 19th-century life any day | Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett

Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett argues for a more authentic portrayal of 19th-century life in adaptations of classic literature, suggesting that new interpretations of works by Austen and Brontë should not shy away from darker themes like slavery and maternal mortality. With Andrew Davies planning to depict Jane Austen's Emma dying in childbirth, this approach could provide a richer, more nuanced understanding of the era, challenging the often romanticized views of these beloved stories. This matters because it opens up discussions about historical realities that are frequently overlooked in favor of lighter narratives.