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2024 Essay Contest Open

February 19, 2024

2024 Essay Contest Open

JASNA's 2024 Essay Contest is under way, and we’re excited to see what the next generation of Jane Austen scholars has to say about this year’s topic! High school, college, and grad school students worldwide are invited to compete. 

The Topic

If you've ever attended a formal debate, you know that both sides of a “resolution” are presented, giving everyone an intellectual workout. Similarly, this year's essay topic asks students to debate both sides of the following statement, backing up each position with quotations and examples from Austen’s works. 

Resolved: That Jane Austen’s novels are still relevant and speak to us after 200 years .

Requirements for high school students differ from undergraduate and graduate students, so be sure to visit our Essay Contest page to learn about the contest rules and submission and eligibility requirements!

More Details

  • Entry Deadline: June 1, 2024
  • Awards: First-, second-, and third-place winners in each division will receive cash scholarships of $1,000, $500, and $250, respectively. The first-place winners will also be offered complimentary registration and two nights' lodging for JASNA's 2024 Annual General Meeting in Cleveland. 
  • Teachers and Mentors: Please help us spread the word about the Essay Contest.  Download the 2024 contest flyer to share with interested students, friends, and family members.