Richard Bentley Purchased Austen's Copyrights

Richard Bentley, a prominent publisher, acquired the remaining copyrights to Jane Austen's novels, which marked a pivotal moment in the preservation and dissemination of her literary works. This acquisition allowed Bentley to publish a collected edition of Austen's novels, which included five illustrated volumes as part of his Standard Novels series. The decision to publish these works in a collected format not only increased their visibility but also contributed to the growing recognition of Austen as a significant author in English literature. The first collected edition released by Bentley played a crucial role in establishing Austen's legacy, ensuring that her novels reached a wider audience and were appreciated for their literary merit. This move was instrumental in transitioning Austen's works from relative obscurity to a place of prominence in the literary canon, influencing future generations of readers and writers alike. The impact of Bentley's publication efforts can be seen in the sustained popularity of Austen's novels, which continue to be studied and celebrated in various forms, including adaptations in film and theater. The continuous publication of her works since Bentley's acquisition has solidified her status as one of the most beloved authors in English literature, with her novels being translated into numerous languages and studied in academic settings worldwide.