Stewart Tave's Dance

1. Stewart Tave’s thesis is built upon the metaphoric use of dance as represented by Jane Austen’s style of writing in her novel Pride and Prejudice.
2. As in a dance routine, Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice occurs in the limited dimensions of time and space, and therein derives meaning. As in dancing, and in Austen’s novel, there is no choice for Elizabeth to stand still; she must respond to the actions of those she is with throughout the year in order for the story to move forward with meaning. 
3. Yes. Things that are true of dancing are true of her novel; it occurs in restricted space and time; there is constant movement, producing enjoyment and sustaining interest; and the originality of the dancers and of Austen’s work creates a sense of appreciation. (all mentioned by Tave) 
4. Stewart Tave’s critique of Jane Austen made me take a second look at her novel. What has seemed a collection of mundane events in the lives of her characters became instead a revelation of the simplicity, yet complexity of life then. From his critique, I appreciate Austen’s ability to create interest in everyday life, in a short span of time, to show the limited choices of young women, and to present an accurate portrayal of the morals, manners, and customs of the 18th century like an orchestrated dance.