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Pride and Prejudice

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Who Would Like This Book:

With sparkling wit, unforgettable characters, and some of the best dialogue ever written, this classic easily wins readers over. Jane Austen’s sharp social commentary gives Pride and Prejudice a timeless voice that resonates even centuries later. If you love clever banter, strong-willed heroines (hello, Elizabeth Bennet!), and slow-burn romance that’s as much about soul-searching as swooning, you’ll fall for this book. Think smart romantic comedy meets keen observation of human nature - perfect for fans of character-driven stories, period dramas, and anyone who enjoys seeing pride and misconceptions upended by humility and love.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Not everyone warms up to the slow-paced plot or the 19th-century English setting. If you crave action-packed stories, you might find the drawing-room dramas a bit tame. The social conventions and endless talk of marriage and manners can also feel repetitive. Some also struggle with the formal language or wish there was more passion and less repression in the romance. And let's be honest: if witty sarcasm or subtle humor isn't your thing, the novel’s charm might fly right over your head.

An irresistibly clever classic and a must-read for romantic comedy and literary fans - full of wit, wisdom, and heart.

About:

"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen is a classic novel set in early 19th Century English society, focusing on the courtship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. The story delves into the complexities of love and marriage, highlighting the barriers and societal pressures that the characters face. Through sharp and witty dialogue, Austen skillfully portrays the characters' interactions, showcasing themes of class differences, prejudice, and the evolving relationships between the characters.

The writing style of "Pride and Prejudice" is praised for its humor, insight, and character development. Austen's precise portrayals of characters and deft manipulation of point of view create a compelling narrative that explores themes of romance, manners, and societal norms. The novel offers a glimpse into 19th Century England, providing a satirical commentary on the society of the time while weaving a captivating love story between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, with Elizabeth as a strong and relatable protagonist, Mr. Darcy as a complex romantic lead, and a memorable supporting cast that includes comically exaggerated social types.

Writing/Prose:

Austen's writing style is characterized by a blend of polite language, wit, and humor, with a narrative that often relies on dialogue to develop character and plot.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around the Bennet family, particularly the second eldest daughter, Elizabeth, and her interactions with Mr. Darcy and other suitors, emphasizing themes of love and social class.

Setting:

The setting is a crucial aspect of the novel, reflecting the societal norms and expectations of the time, particularly regarding marriage and class.

Pacing:

The pacing is deliberate, with a slow build-up that mirrors the gradual development of Elizabeth and Darcy's relationship, culminating in a more rapid resolution.
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife. However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be on his first enteri...

Notes:

Pride and Prejudice was first published in 1813 and celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2013.
The famous opening line of the book highlights the societal expectation of marriage for wealthy men.
Elizabeth Bennet, the protagonist, is known for her wit, intelligence, and independence, contrasting with societal norms of her time.
The novel critiques the limited options for women in the 19th century, primarily focusing on marriage for financial security.
Mr. Darcy, initially perceived as proud and aloof, evolves into a more complex character throughout the story.
Austen's writing blends humor with social commentary, providing insight into human nature and societal norms.
The novel is character-driven, featuring memorable personalities such as the comically ridiculous Mr. Collins and the snobbish Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
The themes of pride, prejudice, and misunderstanding are central to the growth of both main characters, Elizabeth and Darcy.
Despite being a romance, the book also addresses issues of class, agency, and the importance of character over wealth.
Several film adaptations and spin-offs have popularized the story, impacting the perception of its characters, especially Mr. Darcy.

Has Romance?

The novel contains a strong romantic element as the relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy develops throughout the story.

From The Publisher:

The pride of high-ranking Mr Darcy and the prejudice of middle-class Elizabeth Bennet conduct an absorbing dance through the rigid social hierarchies of early-nineteenth-century England, with the passion of the two unlikely lovers growing as their union seems ever more improbable.

One of the most cherished love stories in English literature, Jane Austen's 1813 masterpiece has a lasting effect on everyone who reads it.

1813
362 pages

Ratings (1679)

Incredible (460)
Loved It (594)
Liked It (349)
It Was OK (183)
Did Not Like (78)
Hated It (15)

Reader Stats (2721):

Read It (1754)
Currently Reading (23)
Want To Read (467)
Did Not Finish (49)
Not Interested (428)

33 comment(s)

Loved It
2 weeks

the latter half was so much more enjoyable than the former. got through the second half in a day

 
Incredible
3 months

First classical book that I didn't despise with all my heart.

 
Did Not Like
5 months

Aaah I was bored!! And I swear everyone, every. Single. Dang. Person. Spoke the exact same way in 'light witty banter'. I can watch it as a movie cos I can space out on my phone if needed but reading it as a book is a crime and punishment...

 
Liked It
5 months

Even with the extremely flowery language and density of recency era social understanding required to get unto this story its still so enjoyable. Lizzie is so likeable and Mr.Darcy is a shining example how to do a believable badboy with a heart of gold trope correctly. Worth it to look for a good audiobook performance in my opinion.

 
Loved It
5 months

A charming book.

 
Loved It
6 months

great novel of manners

 
Incredible
7 months

Best romance novel in history

 
Incredible
8 months

This is 100% a comfort book! It's not too stressful, yet it's tense enough you want to continue reading and you fully love the characters and their varying personalities. There are also multiple themes and lessons within, so it is a good reflection book as well.

 
Loved It
8 months

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice remains a timeless classic, blending sharp social commentary with romantic intrigue and witty dialogue. Centered on the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet and the proud Mr. Darcy, the novel explores themes of class, marriage, and personal growth with enduring relevance. Austen’s keen insight into human nature and her subtle irony elevate what might be a simple love story into a rich, layered critique of societal expectations.

 
9 months

Yes, I am a literary buff who's read basically the entire Western canon but I've been avoiding this book for years, mainly due to the cult of Darcy. I can't think of a more misguided fandom. This isn't a romance at all, it's a comedy of manners, an anti-romance about not trusting those romance feelings. If anything it's very mercenary, per the values of the time--Darcy turns out to be loveable, but it's in no small part because he's very wealthy and able to use his money and influence to help the Bennets. I found it difficult to put down, and genuinely hilarious in places. Mr. Collins, especially his inability to understand a refusal, was both funny and painfully recognizable 200 years later.

Overall, so much more literate/socially aware than I was led to believe. Makes me want to go on an Austen kick. Definitely not about sexy brooding gentlemen.

 
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About the Author:

Though the domain of Jane Austen's novels was as circumscribed as her life, her caustic wit and keen observation made her the equal of the greatest novelists in any language. Born the seventh child of the rector of Steventon, Hampshire, on…

 
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