
Pride and Prejudice has delighted generations of readers with its unforgettable cast of characters, carefully choreographed plot, and a hugely entertaining view of the world and its absurdities. With the arrival of eligible young men in their neighborhood, the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their five daughters are turned inside out and upside down. Pride encounters prejudice, upward-mobility confronts social disdain, and quick-wittedness challenges sagacity, as misconceptions and hasty judgements lead to heartache and scandal, but eventually to true understanding, self-knowledge, and love. In this supremely satisfying story, Jane Austen balances comedy with seriousness, and witty observation with profound insight. This new edition includes a new introduction, updated notes, and new appendices onsocial rank and dancing in 19th-century England.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
The arrival of a wealthy bachelor in a rural neighborhood triggers a series of social complications that threaten the stability of the Bennet family. Elizabeth Bennet, a sharp-witted and independent young woman, must navigate the rigid class structures and marriage expectations of 19th-century England while contending with the aloof and seemingly arrogant Mr. Darcy. The narrative follows a third-person limited perspective, focusing on Elizabeth's internal growth as she confronts her own biases and the external pressures of her family's precarious financial future. The world is defined by strict social hierarchies, the necessity of advantageous marriages, and the constant scrutiny of provincial society.
Readers frequently highlight the enduring appeal of the witty banter and the psychological depth of the central protagonists. Discussion often centers on the balance between Austen's comedic observations of human folly and the serious exploration of moral integrity. Critics often point to the precision of the prose and the effectiveness of the world-building in capturing the constraints of the era. The work remains a focal point for analysis regarding the evolution of the novel and the portrayal of female agency within a restrictive social framework.
Page Count:
382
Publication Date:
2008-05-15
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0199535566
ISBN-13:
9780199535569
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