Conversation became increasingly important as a new commercial society evolved after around 1700. Mee explores the discussion that arose around the theme of conversation, from Addison and Hume to Coleridge. From Johnson's Club to the Bluestockings, a transformation that occurred in letters, drawing rooms, and novels led to a new understanding of culture. There is much about Austen here, and a unique way of setting her work in context. Oxford UP. 2013. Paper. List $39,95. NEW. $35.00