Pride and Prejudice

by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Literary Fiction
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  • ID: 15
  • Added: 2025-08-10
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9781551110288
  • Publisher: Broadview Press
  • Published: 2001-12-20
  • Formats: 1320
  • Reviews: 4

Pride and Prejudice follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates the complexities of love and societal norms in Regency-era England. Her initial prejudice against the proud Mr. Darcy and the ensuing misunderstandings and revelations form the heart of this beloved novel. /n/nThe novel is not only a romantic tale but also a sharp critique of the societal structures of the time, particularly the constraints placed on women. Austen's extensive introduction and the included contextual documents provide valuable insights into the literary and historical background, making it a rich and engaging read.

Reviews
Brighton Source · 2025-09-03
entertaining 4.30

The adaptation of Pride and Prejudice by This Is My Theatre is described as inventive and creative, delivering a compelling and humorous 90-minute performance.

This review appreciates the theatrical adaptation's creativity in condensing the classic novel into a 90-minute format without losing its essence. The production is noted for its humor and compelling nature, making it an enjoyable watch and a fresh take on Austen’s work that resonates well with contemporary audiences.

Quick quotes

    The always inventive and creative This Is My Theatre have given their inimitable treatment to adapting Pride and Prejudice.

    Compelling, humorous and of course, the perfect watch this year.

    A fresh take on Austen’s classic that still captures its spirit.

Britannica · 2025-09-03
insightful 4.70

The novel is praised for its sharp social satire, accurate portrayal of a narrow social world, and the enduring appeal of Elizabeth Bennet as a well-conceived, gripping protagonist.

This review highlights Jane Austen's skill in accurately and satirically depicting the closed social environment of rural England around the turn of the 19th century. The story remains popular primarily because of Elizabeth Bennet, who is both the prime actor and perceptive critic of her social milieu, making the love story both engaging and satisfying to readers of all genders. The novel’s focus on character development and social commentary is noted as a key reason for its lasting appeal.

Quick quotes

    She depicted that world, in all its own narrow pride and prejudice, with unswerving accuracy and satire.

    Elizabeth—who was reportedly Austen’s own favorite among all her heroines.

    The enduring appeal to men and women alike of a well-told and potentially happily ending love story.

Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) · Aycrigg · 2025-08-30
thoughtful 4.50

Charlotte Lucas is portrayed sympathetically as a pragmatic woman who knowingly chooses financial security over romantic idealism, highlighting the social realities and constraints on women in Austen's time.

The essay offers a nuanced view of Charlotte Lucas, who is often seen as a foil to Elizabeth Bennet. It emphasizes Charlotte's awareness and acceptance of her social situation, marrying Mr. Collins with full knowledge of his flaws but valuing the security and stability he provides. This perspective broadens the understanding of marriage in the novel beyond romantic ideals to include practical considerations and social strategy, enriching the reader's appreciation of Austen's social critique.

Quick quotes

    Charlotte Lucas marries Mr. Collins with a clear picture of who he is.

    Her spouse cannot reproach her for her cunning.

    Mr. Collins considers marriage not as companionate but as a means to career and social advancement.

SparkNotes · 2025-08-30
intriguing 4.00

Mr. Collins is portrayed as a sycophantic and somewhat ridiculous character who epitomizes extreme pride without merit, and whose marriage proposals are driven by duty rather than affection.

The character analysis presents Mr. Collins as an obsequious clergyman who attempts to compensate for his low social status by constantly praising his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh. His marriage proposals to Elizabeth and others are shown to be mechanical and lacking genuine desire, underscoring his role as a figure of satire within the novel. Despite his pompousness and emptiness, Mr. Collins's stability and connections make him a practical, if uninspiring, suitor in the social context of the story.

Quick quotes

    Mr. Collins is an inane sycophant who attempts to make up for his relatively low social status by speaking constantly about his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

    He conducts the entire business of courting as a duty on a checklist.

    Mr. Collins is well-connected and stable, which is enough for extremely practical Charlotte Lucas.

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