A new historical drama focusing on Jane Austen's sister, Cassandra, premiered Sunday on PBS' "Masterpiece." The limited series, titled "Miss Austen," features Keeley Hawes in the role of Cassandra.
The program adapts Gill Hornby's 2020 novel, which explores the life of Cassandra Austen and the motivations behind her decision to burn most of her famous sister's letters after her death. The series is adapted by Andrea Gibb.
Keeley Hawes plays the elder Cassandra, seen in 1830, thirteen years after Jane's passing. A parallel storyline depicts a younger Cassandra, played by Synnøve Karlsen, alongside Patsy Ferran as Jane Austen.
The narrative follows Cassandra as she navigates the consequences of her actions and reflects on her life with Jane. The plot uses the remaining letters as a device to trigger flashbacks, revealing memories and decisions made by both sisters.
Themes explored in the series include sisterly bonds, the pursuit of happiness beyond traditional marriage, and the financial concerns faced by women in the 19th century. These elements mirror concerns present in Jane Austen's novels.
Other cast members include Rose Leslie and Clare Foster as Isabella and Beth Fowles, Madeline Walker as their mother Eliza, Jessica Hynes as Mary Austen, and Patrick Knowles as James Austen. Kevin McNally and Phyllis Logan play the Austen parents.
The series uses a dual timeline structure to draw comparisons between Cassandra's past and the challenges faced by the Fowles daughters in the later timeline. This structure highlights recurring societal pressures.
According to Christine Langan, an executive producer for the series, the project offers a fresh perspective on Jane Austen's story by viewing it "through the lens of the great woman’s great ally."
