Pride and Prejudice

‘Pride and Prejudice’ is Jane Austen’s widely acclaimed novel of manners published anonymously in 1813 in three volumes.

The novel revolves around the character of Elizabeth Bennet, the story’s very observant, strong-willed and lively protagonist. As Elizabeth watches what happens to the lives of the people around her, particularly her beloved sisters, she learns about the consequences of making hasty judgments and the importance of being able to distinguish superficial virtue from true goodness.

Elizabeth is one of the five lovely daughters of the wise Mr. Bennet, who owned the Longbourn estate in Hertfordshire. Because of prevailing inheritance laws, Mr. Bennet’s estate is encumbered as only a male heir can inherit it. Since his wife is also without an inheritance, his family would surely be in dire straits should he die. The only solution the Bennet’s could see was to have at least one of their daughters marry successfully to be able to support the others. This premise is what complicates the story.

Although one of the highlights of Pride and Prejudice is the blossoming yet troubled relationship between Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy, this classic of English literature has endured the passage of time for its insightful, dynamic character development and realistic portrayal of English society.