Jane Austen’s family member weighs in on her lasting legacy

Jane Austen’s fifth great-niece Caroline Jane Knight has explained why the English Literature icon is still relevant in the 21st century and continues to inspire pop culture.

The late writer was born in United Kingdom on December 16, 1775, which proved to be a momentous point in English Literature history as Jane went on to write stories with lasting impact.

Caroline grew up being surrounded by the author’s legacy in the famed Chawton House which was owned by Jane’s brother Edward.

Speaking to People, she sad “I actually had a constant exposure to Jane Austen lovers, and I knew very early on not only how special Jane was as a family member.”

She founded the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation in 2014 to preserve her work and legacy.

Jane’s works have inspired many movies, books and shows and her stories continue to be adapted by contemporary creators.

Explaining her legacy, Caroline said “Jane has actually now grown into something that's bigger than her writing.”

“She draws characters that we all know, and therefore, that makes it timeless.”

The writer’s characters revolve around themes of social division, class, gender expectation and desire for love that is still relevant in today’s day and age.

Some of her most famous adaptations include Pride and Prejudice (2005), Emma (1996) and Sense and Sensibility (1995).