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A review by isabezza
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
challenging
emotional
lighthearted
slow-paced
2.5
Jane Austen's comedy never fails to impress. It is another layer to her literary genius that surprises me every time. This novel is far more plot-driven than other novels (such as my personal favourite, Persuasion); focussing on the actions and attachments of young women. I would recommend reading the introduction of the edition to provide context and understanding of how this novel was perceived.
The character's are excellently constructed, nuanced, and human. Our protagonist is both powerful and flawed. Although the exploration of miscommunication and misjudgement of each-other between Elizabeth and Darcy was engaging, I did not find this as easy a read as Austen's other stories, nor did I personally find it timeless in the representation of women's experiences (like Northanger Abbey may be). There were many quotes I would have loved to highlight and share, especially in regard to Elizabeth, but have picked my favourites here.
The character's are excellently constructed, nuanced, and human. Our protagonist is both powerful and flawed. Although the exploration of miscommunication and misjudgement of each-other between Elizabeth and Darcy was engaging, I did not find this as easy a read as Austen's other stories, nor did I personally find it timeless in the representation of women's experiences (like Northanger Abbey may be). There were many quotes I would have loved to highlight and share, especially in regard to Elizabeth, but have picked my favourites here.
“Upon my word sir,” cried Elizabeth, “your hope is a rather extraordinary one after my declaration. I do assure you that I am not one of those young ladies, if such young ladies there are, who are so daring as to risk their happiness on the chance of being asked a second time. I am perfectly serious in my refusal. You could not make me happy, and I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world who could make you so.”
In spite of his being a lover, Elizabeth really believed all his expectations of felicity to be rationally founded, because they had for basis the excellent understanding and super excellent disposition of Jane, and a general similarity of feeling and taste between her and himself.
“I have said no such thing. I am only resolved to act in that manner which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me.”
Content Warnings
Minor: Adult/minor relationship