Pride and Prejudice was originally published anonymously in 1813, and has since become author Jane Austen’s most recognized work, and one of the world’s most widely known literary love stories. This is the book that first got me into reading classic literature. The story centers around the Bennet family, consisting of five daughters that Mrs. Bennet is desperate to marry into wealth. Set in the English countryside in the late 1700s, the second eldest Bennet daughter, Elizabeth, is the novel’s heroine and primarily represents the prejudice in which the novel is named for. Sometimes called “Lizzie” by her family, twenty year old Elizabeth loves to read and is known for being headstrong and independent. Mr. Darcy, her counterpart, is a wealthy aristocrat who primarily symbolizes pride throughout the novel, and is largely seen to be brooding and unsociable. During one of their dances later in the novel, Elizabeth describes him as “taciturn.” In the beginning of the novel, Elizabeth and Darcy first become acquainted at a local ball, and thus begins their turbulent relationship. Initially spiteful of each other due to their differences in character and societal rank, the main plot of this novel traces the changes in their relationship, outlining their growing fondness of each other as they grapple with their own, you guessed it, pride and prejudice. Though Elizabeth and Darcy’s relationship is the main focus of the story, Austen also writes about the relationships of the other Bennet daughters– some of which prove to be rather trying, and others even overlap with Elizabeth and Darcy’s. For example, the eldest Bennet sister, Jane, falls in love with Mr. Darcy’s best friend, Mr. Bingley. Disapproving of their blossoming relationship due to the status of the Bennet family, Darcy separates Jane and Bingley, inadvertently causing Elizabeth to become furious with him. Additionally, another Bennet daughter elopes with Darcy’s former best friend and current enemy, Mr. Wickham, resulting in a scandal because of her young age and the nature of their engagement. One thing I loved about this novel is the character development of Elizabeth and Darcy, and how Austen portrays the conflicting emotions that are brought about by potential romantic relationships and the power struggle between head and heart. One of my favorite quotes also comes from the 2005 movie adaptation of this book, and is one you might recognize: "You have bewitched me body and soul. And I love...I love...I love you. Most ardently.” In terms of reading difficulty, I would say this novel falls on a fairly manageable level, but may be more challenging to readers who do not have much experience with older writing styles. With the more difficult style of writing and 432 pages, this is a longer read in my experience. Though the length may be intimidating, I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the works of Jane Austen or the narrative of the story in general! I think there’s something to be learned by all readers in this book when it comes to having unbridled self-pride and being quick to make judgements on other people. 

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