Pride and Prejudice was a novel I had attempted to read many years ago. Because I had struggled to get into it back then, I had avoided picking it up once again. I simply had to pick up this novel once more and add it to my series ‘Reading the Classics‘. Now that I’ve read the whole novel, I’m so sorry that I didn’t read it sooner.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
It is no small wonder that Pride and Prejudice has been the subject of many theatre productions, TV shows and movies. Ever since its publication in 1813, Jane Austen’s most popular novel has captured the imagination of its readers.
The novel is set in that often forgotten time in English history – immediately following the flamboyance of the eighteenth century and the generation prior to the coronation of Queen Victoria.
Pride and Prejudice
The opening of the novel sees the arrival of Mr Bingley into the neighbourhood. He is a rather wealthy gentleman who takes a fancy to Elizabeth’s elder sister, Jane. Mr Bingley is accompanied to social functions by his friend, an exceedingly wealthy gentleman, Mr Darcy. Mr Darcy is somewhat the contrast of Mr Bingley.
Whereas Bingley is the epitome of social grace and affability, Mr Darcy displays an arrogance and snobbery afforded to him by his status. Elizabeth, well educated, refined and attractive young woman, takes an instant dislike to Mr Darcy.
Other characters throughout the novel are overcome by the vice of pride. In particular, Mr Bingley’s sisters. Furthermore, Mr Darcy and the Miss Bingleys are at times, unable to overcome their prejudices of the Bennet family.
Throughout the novel, the fortunes and circumstances of Elizabeth’s family bring her into intermittent contact with Mr Darcy. But can he overcome his pride, and can she overcome her prejudice?
Themes
The novel takes a mocking approach to early nineteenth century social norms. That a woman can be deemed unsuitable for marriage because of her lack of wealth, or her family connections, is a theme Austen explores throughout this engaging novel.
Marriage and love are strong themes, yet social class and propriety often need to be overcome for the sake of love.
A Recommended Read!
Pride and Prejudice is one of those novels that, once you get into, you won’t want to put down. The story takes you into unexpected plot lines and a need to know what happens next might take over you … as it did me!
I love the ending of this novel, but I was incredibly sad when I reached the end of the book. The character of Mr Darcy will have an ever-lasting impression on me!
I’ve never read Pride and Prejudice before as I didn’t think it would be something that I’d enjoy reading. Your review has made me think about giving it a go though! x
https://www.femaleoriginal.com
Author
It is a fabulous read! xxx
This is one book I somehow managed to escape reading in high school and college. I really should try to read it. It is a classic that will never be forgotten.
Author
Thank you for reading Deborah xxx
I cannot believe I’ve never read this! I need to add it to my ever growing list. ?
Author
My list seems to double by the day š xxx
I’ve been the same with Pride & Prejudice, ive picked it up many times to read but then moved onto something else. It is however still on my TBR and reading your review i will be moving it up in the list, i love a book that makes you bot want to put it down! ?
Thanks for sharing!
Much Love,
Laura xx
Author
I’m happy this book has been pushed towards the top of your list! It is awesome! xxx
I really struggle with classics. I don’t often enjoy them but I feel a bit of an obligation to read them, if that makes sense? Which is silly haha! I’m glad you enjoyed this one! <3
Jenny in Neverland
Author
I’m exactly the same Jenny – I fell they’ll make me seem more intelligent haha š xxx
The last time I picked up Pride and Prejudice was back in high school. I love that this book is such a classic, which makes sense given the history and such. Thanks for sharing this classic :).
Nancy ā„
Author
Thank you for reading Nancy xxx
Confession time: I really like classics and went through a phase where they were all I would buy. I picked this up then and it’s been sat on my shelf since. Judging by the themes and setting I think I’d really enjoy it too, you’ve made me feel a little guilty for not reading it sooner! x
Sophie
http://www.glowsteady.co.uk
Author
I got to 32 before even picking it up – don’t feel guilty at all. You’ll love it though xxx
Ugh I love P&P so much – this is making me want to reread it right now! ? I really need to read more classics, but Iām glad to have read this!
Author
It’s up there with the best of them! xxx
Iām in love with the Reading the Classics section of your web site!! I need to work on my organization. I read this one years ago, but I need to reread it! We have a lot of the same books in common on our list ?
Author
Thank you so much lovely xxx
This is one of my favourite books of all time and it’s my go to read when I go on holiday! I have two copies because I love it that much. š Thank you so much for sharing! š
Author
I miss reading it already! It is an amazing book! xxx