Jane Austen, born on December 16, 1775, in Steventon, Hampshire, England, was an English novelist known for her keen observations of the British upper class at the end of the 18th century. Her works, including classics like "Pride and Prejudice," "Sense and Sensibility," and "Emma," are celebrated for their wit, social commentary, and masterful use of irony. Despite facing the limitations placed on women of her time, Austen's novels have endured as literary masterpieces, influencing countless writers and readers. Her ability to create complex characters and explore themes of love, marriage, and morality has cemented her legacy as one of the most significant figures in English literature. Austen passed away on July 18, 1817, but her works continue to captivate audiences worldwide.