Laughing Queen Makes Fun of the Lake Scene in Pride and Prejudice During Literary Event
The Queen and Camilla's Literary Visit to Chatsworth Home
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, recently paid a visit to Chatsworth Home for the annual literary festival. The Queen, who expressed her admiration for objects related to Jane Austen's life, called them 'treasures'.
The Queen made a speech to the guests gathered in the Painted Hall, praising the power of books and their ability to make life better. She also added some books, including Austen's works, to The Queen's Reading Room book donation station for The Elm Foundation.
The Queen's Reading Room, which started as a list of nine favorite novels scribbled on a notepad during the first lockdown, has grown into a vibrant online community. With over 180,000 members, it reaches 12 million people from 183 countries annually.
Camilla, during her speech, mentioned that she had been speaking a lot in the past few days. She described the infamous scene of Mr Darcy emerging from the lake in the BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. The Queen, too, remarked on this scene during her visit.
The 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen, was filmed at Chatsworth Home. The actor who played Mr. Darcy in this adaptation is Colin Firth.
Camilla greeted several notable figures such as Gill Hornby, Richard Osman, and Gyles Brandreth during the reception. Brandreth and Ms. Hornby held a discussion about Jane Austen's life and work on the steps of the Painted Hall.
Before leaving Chatsworth, Camilla spoke to Dame Jilly Cooper and Bridgerton actress Kathryn Drysdale. She also spoke to people helped by The Elm Foundation about the positive impact of reading and escapism provided by books.
The Queen was tempted to stay for a showing of Pride and Prejudice on the lawns of Chatsworth Home but ultimately told the crowd to 'enjoy it'. Lord William Burlington welcomed Camilla during her visit.
Despite missing the Duchess of Kent's funeral due to acute sinusitis, the Queen's visit to Chatsworth Home was a testament to her enduring love for literature and the power of books to bring people together. The Queen's Reading Room is hosting its third festival at Chatsworth Home on Saturday.
