A fascinating collection of first-hand accounts of life in the time of Jane Austen (1775-1817), showing how social standing and etiquette were prime considerations of the period. This book reveals the stark contrast that existed in every aspect of domestic and public life, including the gulfs between rich and poor, 'upstairs' and 'downstairs', and the lives of men and women. The 'voices' come from Jane Austen's novels, letters, biographies, memoirs and newspapers, including previously unpublished material held by The Jane Austen Society, British Library, Hampshire Record Office and Kent County Archives.