Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5 – Sassy brilliance at its finest!)
Genre: Classic Fiction / Literary Fiction
Available On: Amazon
Hold onto your bonnets, darlings, because Pride And Prejudice, penned by the fabulous Jane Austen, is a sassy spectacle that will leave you snapping your fingers, rolling your eyes, and tossing your fans with pure sassitude. Get ready for a deliciously cheeky romp through the enchanting world of 19th-century England where quick-witted comebacks, fierce female characters, and scathing social commentary reign supreme!
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Pride And Prejudice: A Review
First, let’s dive into the one and only Elizabeth Bennet, the undisputed sass queen extraordinaire. She struts through the pages with an unapologetic air of confidence, armed with a tongue as sharp as her wit. When confronted with the arrogance of Mr. Darcy, she fearlessly challenges him with witty banter that would vex even the snootiest aristocrat. Their verbal sparring matches are nothing short of epic, with each retort oozing sauce and leaving you craving more of their electrifying sparring.
But let us not forget the marvellous cast of characters that populate Austen’s world of snobbery and societal conventions. We have the likes of Mr. Collins, a walking embodiment of cringe-worthy obsequiousness, whose every word drips with faux importance and whose attempts at flattery are met with eye rolls and stifled laughter. And then there’s the scandalously impulsive Lydia Bennet, whose unapologetic flirtations with every officer in sight will leave you gasping for breath from her audacity alone. Each character brings their own unique flavour of wit to the mix, creating a symphony of sassiness that resonates through every page.
While it may be the benefit of hindsight that allows us to look back and imbue Austen’s penmanship with modern feminist values, there’s no disputing her progressive attitude goes far beyond the characters; she serves up a buffet of wry observations when it comes to skewering the absurdities of her time. With her sly wit and razor-sharp observations, Austen expertly exposes the ridiculousness of high society, the obsession with marriage for wealth and status, and the double standards that plague the landed gentry. Her prose is a masterclass in sass-meets-social commentary, leaving you both entertained and enlightened.
A classic it may be, both in terms of setting and writing style, but Pride and Prejudice is a sassy masterpiece that will have you snapping, clapping, and throwing shade left and right. Austen’s wicked sense of humour and knack for witty dialogue that, somehow, never quite steps outside the bounds of social niceties, will have you giggling uncontrollably, rolling your eyes in mock exasperation, and high-fiving the pages in delight.
It’s a rollercoaster ride of love, romance, and some serious hair flips, couched in all the appealing and appalling of the period.
Somewhat surprisingly, Pride And Prejudice is the sass-filled saga you never knew you needed in your life. Jane Austen’s brilliance, unforgettable characters, and sharp social commentary will have you strutting around like the belle at the ball. So put on your best gown, grab your sassiest fan, and prepare to sashay your way through this fabulously penetrating journey into Regency England.
Has This Classic Stood The Test Of Time?
I know quite a few lovers of modern day romance who shy away from the Classics, largely because they were forced to read them at school and (at the time) weren’t in the right mindset to appreciate them. I was always the opposite, and have obsessed over modern and classical romance for years. But for those on the shelf about reading this one, if you enjoy modern romance books, there’s a high chance you’ll find delight in Pride and Prejudice. Despite being set in the 19th century, the novel offers timeless themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships that resonate with readers across different eras. Not to mention it may be the original incarnation of the much-loved enemies to lovers trope.
Pride and Prejudice showcases a captivating romance that transcends time. It’s a tale of unexpected connections, initial misunderstandings, and personal growth that leads to a deeper understanding between the characters. The dynamic between the spirited and independent Elizabeth Bennet and the initially aloof and misunderstood Mr. Darcy creates a compelling slow-burn romance that is both charming and emotionally satisfying.
Moreover, Pride and Prejudice delves into the intricacies of societal expectations and the influence they have on love and relationships. It explores the pressures of class, the role of women, and the importance of finding true companionship amidst societal norms. These themes, though rooted in the 19th century, have parallels in modern times, making the story relatable and thought-provoking for contemporary readers.
Jane Austen’s writing style, characterised by her keen observations, witty dialogue, and well-crafted characters, will draw you in and keep you hooked from beginning to end. Her ability to balance romance, humour, and social commentary creates a rich reading experience that will satisfy your appetite for both captivating love stories and insightful storytelling.
So, if you’re a fan of modern romance books, don’t hesitate to give Pride and Prejudice a try. It’s a literary classic that has captured the hearts of readers for generations, and its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend time and touch the hearts of readers who appreciate the beauty and complexity of love in all its forms.
The Complex Mr Darcy: Is He A Good Man?
I’m a self-confessed lover of the bad boys so my initial love for Mr Darcy as a teenager led me to assume he wasn’t a great guy. After all, I liked him, there must be something wrong with him. But as I’ve aged and had more time to reflect on the complexities of what actually constitutes a ‘bad boy’ it’s become patently obvious that Mr. Darcy is far from bad. The question then is whether or not he is good.
Darcy is a complex character who undergoes significant development throughout the story. Whether he is considered a “good” man can be subjective and open to interpretation.
At the beginning of the novel, Mr. Darcy’s aloof and seemingly arrogant behaviour leads many characters, including the protagonist Elizabeth Bennet, to form negative opinions of him. However, as the story progresses, we learn more about Mr. Darcy’s true character and motivations.
Mr. Darcy’s actions and decisions throughout the novel can be viewed as both positive and negative. On the positive side, he is loyal, responsible, and honourable. He acts as a responsible guardian for his younger sister and is genuinely concerned about her well-being. He also shows his loyalty and devotion to his close friends.
However, Mr. Darcy’s initial pride and social awkwardness often come across as haughty and judgmental, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts with other characters. His proposal to Elizabeth at Rosings, for example, is initially filled with arrogance and a sense of superiority. He also actively tries to separate his friend Bingley from Jane Bennet, which is seen as an act of interference and snobbery.
Despite these flaws, Mr. Darcy undergoes a significant transformation as the story unfolds. He recognizes his mistakes, reflects on his behaviour, and genuinely tries to improve himself. He later reveals his love for Elizabeth and goes to great lengths to right the wrongs he has committed. His character growth and the humility he displays towards the end of the novel contribute to his redemption.
Ultimately, whether Mr. Darcy is considered a “good” man is subjective and depends on individual interpretations. Some readers may find his character development and capacity for self-improvement admirable, while others may focus more on his initial flaws and the negative consequences of his actions. The novel allows readers to form their own opinions about Mr. Darcy’s morality and character.
For myself, I now view him not as a bad boy, but more of a mean boy (initially at least). His behaviour is neither bad enough nor destructive enough (in my opinion) to put him on a par with the genuine bad boys of fiction. Around the same time I first read Pride and Prejudice I also read L.J. Smith’s The Forbidden Game series.
Julian. Now, there is a bad boy. Mr Darcy’s a kitten in a frock coat by comparison.
What Makes Elizabeth Bennet Such A Likeable Character?
Elizabeth Bennet is generally regarded as a likeable character by readers and has become one of the most beloved heroines in literature. I do, however, know more than a few people who find her insufferable. So why is it so many (myself included) find Elizabeth to be such a thoroughly likeable character?
For starters, Elizabeth is portrayed as intelligent, quick-witted, and possessing a sharp sense of humour. Her wit adds charm and liveliness to her character, making her engaging and entertaining to readers.
Elizabeth also has a strong, independent spirit and is not afraid to voice her opinions and stand up for herself. She exhibits a sense of self-assurance and confidence that resonates with many readers.
While some find this aspect of her character stuffy, Elizabeth possesses a strong moral compass and is guided by principles of fairness, honesty, and integrity. She values truth and authenticity in her interactions with others and demonstrates a sense of fairness and justice throughout the story. For many, these are highly prized qualities, though there are times they can also make her seem a little stuffy (at least by modern standards).
Despite her initial prejudice, Elizabeth is capable of growth and empathy. She demonstrates compassion towards her sister Jane, her friend Charlotte, and even towards Mr. Darcy as she learns to see beyond her initial judgments. Indeed, Elizabeth is not immune to her own flaws and is willing to reflect upon her actions and reconsider her opinions. She learns from her mistakes and strives for personal growth, which adds depth and relatability to her character. This self-awareness goes a long way towards mitigating the negative impression created by some of the judgemental attitudes she displays.
That being said there’s no escaping that Elizabeth holds strong moral standards and is critical of hypocrisy and deceit. I do not, personally, find this to be a negative trait, however, as she is capable of realising when she herself has become hypocritical, and altering her perceptions and judgements as a result. Her ability to discern character and her refusal to compromise on her principles make her a character that readers can admire.
Of course, not all readers may find Elizabeth Bennet equally likeable but her combination of intelligence, wit, independence, empathy, and integrity make her a compelling and well-regarded character in literature.
No Slut-Shaming Lydia, If You Please
Lydia Bennet gets a lot of slack for her behaviour, both in the book and from judgemental readers who like to argue she causes trouble with her wayward ways. But Lydia, like any fictional or real person, has agency over her own choices, including her romantic and sexual decisions. Whether societal norms allow for certain behaviours or not, we should respect everyone’s autonomy and allow them to make choices that may differ from societal expectations without judgement or shame.
Considering the actions of Mr Darcy in the novel, who is far from perfect yet still remains on a pedestal of adoration, not to mention Wickham, we see gender disparity at work. Darcy is the only one who sees Wickham for what he truly is; both the society of the day and modern readers overlook what should be obvious about him for a long time. When both he and Lydia make a decision together, it is Lydia who is largely blamed for the situation, her actions being considered scandalous and lacking in caution and propriety. Lydia is depicted as being obsessed with socialising, flirting, and seeking attention from men. Her actions are presented as a negative example of imprudence and the consequences of placing too much importance on external validation and shallow pursuits.
Reducing a person’s character or worth to their sexual behaviour oversimplifies their identity and ignores the multifaceted nature of human beings. Lydia’s actions, though deemed imprudent in the context of the story, do not define her entire character. Individuals can make mistakes or engage in behaviours we may not agree with without devaluing their worth as human beings.
How Spicy Is Pride And Prejudice?
Spice Rating: (0/5)
Spicy is not an adjective typically used to describe this Pride And Prejudice. While it may be a romance novel, it’s a regency novel in every sense of the term. It isn’t just set in the period, it was written in the period. To have included ‘spice’ as modern romance readers expect today would have been utterly scandalous at the time. Instead, P&P is known for its wit, social commentary, and romantic storyline. The novel explores the themes of love, marriage, class, and societal expectations in the 19th century.
Sorry to disappoint, but the novel does not contain explicit or overtly sensual scenes. It focuses more on the emotional and intellectual dynamics between characters rather than physical intimacy. The romance in the novel is depicted through subtle dialogue, nuanced interactions, and the complexities of social relationships. If you’re looking for spice, look elsewhere!
Romance Trope Count
Trope Count: 💚💚💚💚💚
Pride and Prejudice contains several romance tropes that are common in the genre. Here are a few notable ones:
Enemies to Lovers
The main characters, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, start off with a negative impression of each other. Their initial interactions are marked by pride, prejudice, and misunderstandings. However, as the story progresses, their feelings evolve, and they eventually overcome their differences to fall in love.
Forbidden Love
The societal norms and expectations of the time create obstacles for Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s relationship. Class differences, social standing, and the disapproval of family and acquaintances serve as barriers to their love. Overcoming these obstacles forms a central part of their romantic journey.
Slow Burn
The romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy develops gradually throughout the novel. They experience a series of encounters, conversations, and events that challenge their preconceptions and deepen their understanding of each other. The slow progression of their relationship adds tension and anticipation to the story.
Opposites Attract
Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy are portrayed as opposites in many ways. Elizabeth is lively, independent, and quick-witted, while Darcy initially appears aloof, proud, and reserved. Their contrasting personalities create conflict and intrigue, but also contribute to their eventual attraction and compatibility.
Love Conquers All
Despite the obstacles they face, Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy’s love ultimately triumphs. They learn from their mistakes, grow as individuals, and overcome their pride and prejudices to unite in a loving and fulfilling relationship.
These romance tropes, combined with Jane Austen’s sharp social commentary and wit, have made “Pride and Prejudice” a beloved and enduring classic in the romance genre.
What Genre Is Pride And Prejudice?
Often categorised under the genre of literary fiction or classic literature, P&P is more specifically a novel of manners, as it focuses on the social customs, norms, and expectations of the English gentry during the early 19th century. There are romantic elements to the novel, but not enough for it to be considered a full-blown Romance.
