A new exhibit for lovers of Austen

Tucked away in a single room in the Morgan Library and Museum is a collection of Jane Austen artifacts that hasn't been seen for 15 years. Composed of personal letters, works of art and literature that influenced Austen, this exhibit lends insight into the inner workings of her mind. Although it might be a small exhibit, for the true Austen enthusiast, there is lot to see.

Engravings from artists such as James Gillray and Isabel Bishop show images of characters from Austen's novels as well as sketches that influenced Austen's character development. Alongside the paintings are novels from writers that Austen admired. Next to each piece is a small description of what Austen took from the painting or passage and how it relates to a specific novel, along with a small reminder of the happenings in that particular book.

Of all the pieces in the room, the letters written by Austen are the most valuable. Acquired by J.P. Morgan Jr., this collection comprises one-third of the world's collection of Austen's letters. No original manuscripts of her novels exist, so the exhibited letters are some of the only handwritten pieces by Austen. Most of them are written to her sister Cassandra and offer a wonderful glimpse into the daily happenings of Austen's life.

In the corner of the room, there is also an area blocked off to screen a short film titled "The Divine Jane." The film features writers and philosophers from the past and present who see Austen as an influence on their work. Quotes from famous authors such as Virginia Woolf, Lord Alfred Tennyson and Samuel Beckett break up video footage of modern writers.

While the quotes of deceased writers describe Austen's greatness, the video clips go into further detail about what it is exactly that makes Austen so interesting and popular, even today — her cutting wit, her accessibility, etc.

Although the exhibit draws an older crowd of serious Austen fans, it is worth going to for students as well. The exhibit takes about 30 minutes to view, but it offers something to think about for much long after you leave.

The Morgan Library and Museum is located at 225 Madison Ave. "A Woman's Wit: Jane Austen's Life and Legacy" opened Nov. 6 and will run through March 14, 2010. Tickets are $12 for adults or $8 for students during regular hours, but admission is free on Fridays between 7 and 9 p.m.