Human nature is so well disposed towards those who are in interesting situations, that a young person, who either marries or dies, is sure of being kindly spoken of.
– Jane Austen
Emma, Chapter 22. This chapter’s opening sentence is a good example of Austen’s use of irony, understatement and humor. She is commenting on the gossiping that characters indulge in throughout the novel and forms an important feature of their social life. Austen sarcastically remarks that for a young person to ensure they avoid being part of scandalous gossip and are kindly spoken of, they should either be married or dead. This is also a satirical observation on marriage.