A review by literallysam
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

It was my very first classic read and it's safe to say that I definitely cherished it and am looking forward to reading more classics. Initially, I was having a hard time reading it because I'm not very familiar with the 19th century diction, but eventually it got easier.
Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its wit, romance, and social commentary. It is set in early 19th century England and 

The story revolves around the Bennet family, particularly- Elizabeth who is a strong willed and independent woman, ahead of her time, and her character is beautifully developed throughout the book. Her initial prejudice towards the proud and aloof Mr. Darcy sets the stage for a complex and captivating romance. Their romance is portrayed with nuance as later, their pride and prejudice give way to understanding and affection. 

Pride and prejudice explores the themes of love, marriage, social norms and the role of women in the society of the 19th century which was patriarchal and ruled by men who held the economic and social power. It also has certain components that directly focus on the mixing of the bourgeoisie and aristocracy. Austen has written satirically about the social conventions and hypocrisy of her time, shedding light on the limitations placed upon women and the necessity of securing a marriage. Through her characters, she reveals, the flaws and virtues of human nature, and offers insightful analysis on the complexities of human relationships.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Pride and Prejudice is the characterization. Each and every character develops intricately which allows you to become fully immersed in their lives and emotions. It is to be noted that the FMC, Elizabeth is a feminist character. When Lady Catherine confronts Lizzie about her relationship with Darcy, Lizzie says "he is a gentleman; I am a gentleman's daughter, so far we are equal." Here when she declares herself equal to Darcy she emerges as a true feminist, subtly hinted at in the previous chapter.

At its core Pride and prejudice is a slow-burning romance between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. The novel explores the transformative power of love and challenges societal norms along the way. It's a novel that has stood the test of time. Whether you are a fan of classic literature or not, this novel is a must read and offers timeless lessons about love, self discovery, and the complexities of human nature.