[ book tip by Emily Bullock ] I have watched every film adaptation, seen every BBC costume drama based on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice but I’d watch them all again and read the book again tomorrow. I just can’t get enough of the spirited Elizabeth and reserved Darcy.  

Jane Austen expertly weaves between her characters, focusing on thoughts and speech patterns. The many techniques she uses grant the reader access into the consciousness of her characters, from the delightful Lizzie to the obnoxious Bingley sisters and the many variations in between. The famous opening passage establishes the context for the reader immediately: this is a world where marriage is a serious business. Money, class and respect, not to mention love, are gauntlets that the Bennets, along with everyone else, must run. Woe betide a wrong choice which could leave you shackled for life to the most inappropriate partner just like Mr and Mrs Bennet.

Elizabeth is the main protagonist of this romance. Although Pride and Prejudice is essentially a Realist novel I think it would be wrong to ignore the elements of love and Romance with a capital R altogether. Austen brilliantly observes the minutiae of this social world. The reader is plunged into this circle of friends, acquaintances and enemies.

Elizabeth and Darcy represent the Pride and Prejudice of the title along with many other characters. They both undergo a journey of self-development but for all their faults I find it impossible not to love them. The book is populated with characters I enjoy spending time with again and again. So if you have only ever seen the films and think you know the story then please read the book. A world so cleverly and entertainingly observed only Austen could ever really bring to life.

[ book info ] Austen, Jane: Pride and Prejudice. (Book language: English) OUP, 1998 . ISBN: 0-19-280238-0.