Pride and Prejudice was first published in 1813, although Jane Austen had written it between October of 1796 and August of 1797. This was at a time when women were expected to stay at home and just be a pretty face, not think for themselves, and not involve themselves in politics or careers. Men were authors; women were not.
Austen’s father first submitted Pride and Prejudice to a publisher in 1797, under the title First Impressions, but it was rejected probably for the sole reason that it had been written by a woman. Even when Pride and Prejudice was finally published in 1813, Austen’s name did not appear as the author of the book, and in fact, Austen was never given credit for being the author of any of her works while she was alive. The title page of Pride and Prejudice, when published, read “by the author of Sense and Sensibility.”
Set in England in the late 18th century, this book follows the story of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett’s five unmarried daughters. The central character in the story is Elizabeth Bennett and the book centres on the various obstacles she deals with - education, manners and marriage, to name a few. Elizabeth has a number of qualities. She is brilliant, lovely, and in a Jane Austen novel defined by dialogue, she converses better than most. But, her sharp and witty tongue and judgemental nature often make her unnoticed.
As the story progresses, another character is introduced, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. The son of a wealthy, well-established family and the master of the great estate of Pemberley, Darcy is Elizabeth’s male counterpart. But, since the narrator describes most of the events in the book from Elizabeth's point of view, Darcy is not brought into the forefront. Elizabeth gains our sympathy. But, as the story progresses, readers realize that Darcy is Elizabeth's ideal match. The book opens with the line "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife." This sets marriage as the central subject of the book. But we are forced to question whether these men want to marry in accordance with their heart's desires, or whether they are being dictated by the 'neighbourhood' families and their daughters who require a good fortune. Marriage was looked at as an economic, rather than a social activity. Sitting in 18th century England, Jane Austen brings out a social issue that can be seen in society even today. And her portrayal of Elizabeth as a bold and strong character is relatable even today. She remains in our hearts as a woman who will never settle for anything less than what she deserves. Her intelligence, wit, and humour set her apart from everyone else in the book.
Elizabeth becomes a favourite among the readers because she is outspoken, smart and independent. At a time when women weren't recognized, her views create a strong and lasting impression on the minds of the readers. She refuses to marry for any reason other than love and she is not concerned about social status.
Darcy becomes the manifestation of prejudice, challenging Elizabeth's pride, every step of the way. The two are a sharp contrast to each other. But, in the end, the book converges into a satisfying love story between the two.
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