Jane's words: essay

For most of us this word means the dreaded the essay we had to write, summoning memories of school or university, particularly in relation to Jane Austen. But, this word has two manifestations, as a noun but also as a verb. In Austen’s day, the verb was used frequently though its meaning is lost to us today, unless you’re French.

Originally, ‘essay’ came from the Latin ‘exigere’ which meant ascertain or weigh. The verb ‘essayer’ in French is related and still much in use. It means to try – I’m going to try to come home early or try on these shoes – or attempt something the success of which is far from certain.

Here it is in Northanger Abbey, being used as a noun in the way we recognise. Towards the end of the novel as Catherine Morland licks her wounds over her experiences with Henry Tilney and his family. Her mother advises to read an essay.

“I am sure I do not care about the bread. It is all the same to me what I eat.”

“There is a very clever essay in one of the books upstairs upon much such a subject, about young girls that have been spoilt for home by great acquaintance—The Mirror, I think. I will look it out for you some day or other, because I am sure it will do you good.”

Writing an essay is an attempt to explain something or answer a question or, as in the example above, impart some wisdom on a subject. Catherine, once home, has to settle back into ordinary country life after hanging around with members of the aristocracy, and all the colourful characters she met in Bath.