George was an avid reader of novels, and particularly of Jane Austen’s sharp social commentaries, keeping a set of her works in each of his residences. Emma was dedicated to the prince after Austen was given a tour of Carlton House by his librarian James Stanier Clarke, who hinted that such a dedication would be much appreciated. Austen obliged but was critical of George, deploring his poor treatment of his wife, Caroline.

Presented on behalf of the author