Pride and Prejudice cover
Book

Pride and Prejudice

by Jane Austen

1813•Oxford University Press, USA•EN
About the book

Set in rural England during the Napoleonic era, the narrative centers on the Bennet family and their five unmarried daughters. Mrs. Bennet focuses on securing wealthy husbands for her children to ensure their financial stability. When the affluent Mr. Bingley and his reserved friend Mr. Darcy arrive in Hertfordshire, the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet forms an immediate dislike for Darcy based on his perceived arrogance. The plot tracks their turbulent interactions as they navigate social hierarchies, inheritance laws, and the consequences of superficial first impressions and family reputations.

Historical fiction readers and those interested in Regency social norms read this work for its precise depiction of class distinctions and domestic politics. It appeals to audiences who value sharp dialogue and psychological realism over melodrama. A reader finishes the book with a clear understanding of how economic Necessity shaped 19th-century marriage and how individual pride can obscure objective truth. The text provides a framework for analyzing how social standing and personal integrity collide in a rigid societal structure.

Reading profile

Balanced in tone; a moderate read.

Best for readers like The Story Seeker. Which reader are you?

Insights from Pride and Prejudice

“I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.”

Lizzie is so quick to judge people after one bad meeting. Her brain just snaps shut. We all do that to protect our own egos.

“I certainly have not the talent which some people possess of conversing easily with those I have never seen before.”

Darcy looks like a jerk because he is socially awkward and hates small talk. He just wants to be around his sister. I feel for the guy.

“I am not romantic, you know. I never was.”

Charlotte Lucas marrying Mr. Collins is the most honest part. She just wanted a house and some security. Love was a luxury she couldn't afford.

Mr. Bennet is funny until you realize he is a terrible father. He hides in his library while his daughters' lives fall apart. Sarcasm is just his shield.

Details
Published
1813
Publisher
Oxford University Press, USA
ISBN
9780192815033
Language
EN

Quotes by Jane Austen

More →
  • It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.

    Pride and Prejudice

More by Jane Austen

See all →

Books like Pride and Prejudice

See all 12 →

Your library, beautifully understood.

papr turns your books into a reading persona, chapter insights you can listen to, and a quiet way to find people who think like you. Free to join.

Get papr — it's free
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play