Pride and Prejudice

Jane Austen's Classic Pride and prejudice is a joy and interest to read as we study the conflict over marriage in the late Georgian era. The outline reveals the story between Mr Darcy and Miss Elizabeth Bennett developing a loving relationship with each other, while certain issues disallow them to do as such. Mr Darcy's wealth and social superiority are far above the standards of Elizabeth's and it would be considered a disgrace to marry such a person, especially in Miss Lady de Boroughs case. Furthermore Elizabeth's family are embarrassing and poorly mannered, while her prestigious mother Mrs Bennett believes that marrying her five daughters for no what reason is considered a success. Can Elizabeth fulfil her marriage through true love?

The novel reveals a very complex yet sustained plot. When Austen is describing the romance and relationships in the characters there is also often reliefs of humour in the bike with the likes of the stupid Mr Collins and Elizabeth's foolish sisters (apart from Jane). This amusment is especially referred to the ideas of money, status and understanding of love, ironic considering we still revisit these scenes in the modern day. Language is a big part of this story as it helps to depict and compare the roles of women with the roles of men. It is most educational to see the difference between Mr Darcy's freedom and Miss Bennetts restrain in society, which again we can relate the 21st century to.

Nevertheless this is a well known, enchanting book that we should all read, since we may revisit the storyline both in copied versions and scenes in our lives. Personally I felt the novel was targeted more at women due to its subject of marriage and context, but I wouldn't want to hamper any male interests in reading this classic lover story. I admit that I struggled to pick out some key features in the text as the unfamiliar style of writing was, in some cases, difficult to understand. Films and other copies have also been released and having also watched the excellent BBC series from the 90's, I thou roughly recommend it. Overall though it is a brilliant story, full of beautiful imagery, well placed characters and a fantastic plot! Perhaps I am now tempted to try another Jane Austen story for my next read...

By Fred Ross