University helps to build Jane Austen AI character

A university in Surrey has helped build an avatar for literature fans, bringing to life Jane Austen's character, Elizabeth Bennet.

The Pride and Prejudice protagonist can be visited at the Learning Centre at Jane Austen’s House in Alton, Hampshire, between September and mid-December.

The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Farnham, Surrey, collaborated with artificial intelligence (AI) firm StarPal, to mirror the human qualities of Austen’s character.

As "Lizzy" evolves as an avatar, her conversation with each visitor will be unique, UCA said.

Sophy Smith, director of games and creative technology at UCA, and the originator of the project, said: "It is so exciting to finally be able to lift Elizabeth Bennet off the page and have real-time conversations with her."

Lizzy is set within a Regency-style background, with her dress and hair designed and created by students from the Games Arts and Digital Fashion courses at UCA, drawing from period fashion.

Director of Jane Austen’s House, Lizzie Dunford, said: "It has been fascinating to watch this project develop, and to witness the innovative staff and students at UCA developing these new technologies, and new ways of accessing literary and cultural heritage."

Tanguy Dewavrin, chief operating officer of StarPal, said Lizzy was continually surprising them.

"It’s amazing how real she is – she’s just so impressive," he said.

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