Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austin

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Many years ago, I started the quest to read all the BBC's 100 Greatest Books. I now only have about ten to read, and this was one of them. I was also lucky enough to buy a beautiful Jane Austin box set, which needed starting, so I picked this up. 

This was my first Jane Austin; I am not sure why I picked this one specifically, possibly because it was the one I knew the best. 

Synopsis

Pride and Prejudice follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet, the second eldest daughter of the Bennet family, who lives in rural England in the early 19th century. The Bennet family consists of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their five daughters: Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia.

The story mainly revolves around Elizabeth's journey of self-discovery, love, and social conventions. When Mr Bingley, a wealthy and amiable bachelor, moves into the neighbourhood, he catches the attention of the Bennet sisters, especially Jane. However, Mr. Bingley's friend, the proud and reserved Mr. Darcy, initially snubs the local society, including Elizabeth.

Impressions

Pride and Prejudice has one of the most famous opening lines, 'It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.' In one line, we are presented with both pride and prejudice. 

The book was originally going to be called First Impressions, which would have also been perfect because the book's essence is about first impressions and the judgements we make when we first meet people. 

Jane Austin is primarily considered a feminist writer, and although this comes across in this book, she also writes about many other social topics. She challenges the reader to think about their pride and prejudice. She does this with a mix of satire, humour and wit. 

Her characters also use these qualities in their interactions. When I read this book, I thought about how funny Mr Bennett was. Her humour reminds me of how Dickens also uses humour in dark times. 

Elizabeth Bennett was said to be Austin's favourite character, and I can see why she is a character that you are instantly drawn to. I also loved her sister Mary, a woman who would rather spend time with a book than with a man. 

This book was voted one of the most romantic of all times, which surprised me as until the end, I was not wowed by the love story but enjoyed the plot and what it taught me about the world for women in those times. 

I enjoyed this book, but it didn't amaze me like Bronte and Dickens. It didn't, however, put me off reading more of her novels. This book is about judging people wrongly and is as relevant today as it was when it was written. 

Two-Sentence Summary

A book that lives up to its title, you will examine both your pride and prejudice in this romantic classic. The Bennett family will have you laughing and crying in equal measure. 

Favourite Quote

An unhappy alternative is before you, Elizabeth. From this day you must be a stranger to one of your parents. Your mother will never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will never see you again if you do. - Mr Bennett