On the Continued Bastardization of Jane Austen

Without a doubt, Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice remains my favourite novel of all-time. Recently, when discussing what makes this novel so widely loved and so enduring, my mother and I came to the very unsophisticated conclusion that it was because (a) nobody dies; (b) the novel's crisis isn't an especially dire or irremediable one; (c) the characters are generally likable and the "villains" aren't all that bad; and (d) the love story ends in a 'happily ever after.' It's well-written, entertaining, and endearing. No wonder women all over the world love it and everyone and their brother tries to make a buck off it! Once I even succumbed to curiosity and purchased a poorly-written "sequel" by someone or other. I can't recall the details, except that Georgiana possibly ran off with a Wickham-esque rogue (surprise, surprise!)--and not the constant architect who was passionately in love with her.

In some respects I am sympathetic to those who wish to use Jane Austen's novels as a springboard for their own (pathetic?) literary endeavours. I'll even admit to watching ITV's "Lost in Austen" more than once despite, what I think, was a poorly cast Darcy and an absolutely repulsive Mr. Collins. (I find David Bamber almost dreamy by comparison!)

While browsing Google for some reviews of "Lost in Austen" -- I'm curious whether the critics loved it or loathed it and whether, as a Jane fan for life, I should admit to finding it charmingly absurd -- I stumbled on a listing for a book entitled Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. Oddly enough, I don't think this is a hoax! It's even listed on amazon! But it gets worse! (As does my punctuation. This is probably the most overzealous use of exclamation points yet on any blog...!) Allegedly, Hollywood studios are going to adapt the book. (I sincerely hope neither Colin Firth nor Matthew Macfadyen agree to reprise their original roles.)

Now, while I try never to judge a book by its cover--or, in this case, a title and premise--I doubt this is one I'll ever pick up, recommend to my book club, or even bother to go to the movies to see. It took me well over three years to warm up to the 2005 version of "Pride and Prejudice" and for legitimate reasons (mainly script, authenticity, and casting). This said, I cannot see myself ever accepting Meryton as a bloody battleground for a zombie invasion, nor Elizabeth as the heroine intent on slaying them. I suppose it's wonderful that one book can inspire so much creativity (and I do employ that term rather loosely), but I can only wonder what Miss Austen would think of the latest sci-fi/horror spin. Perhaps the promise of blood and guts is an attempt to persuade more men to read the book, considering that close to 85% of P & P & Z the text is original? I'm not sure. Regardless, I'm always astonished at what sells, what people write, and what gets published these days!