Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice follows Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates family expectations, class and her changing opinion of Mr. Darcy. First published in 1813, it is a social novel with humor, pointed dialogue and a close eye for the consequences of judging people too quickly.
What is the story about?
The Bennet family’s future is uncertain because the family estate is entailed away from the daughters. Their mother hopes for advantageous marriages, while Elizabeth wants to judge character for herself. Encounters with Darcy, his friend Bingley and their wider circle test her assumptions.
Why read it?
The novel balances a relationship story with observations about money, status and family duty. Elizabeth’s wit keeps the conversations lively, but the story also asks how people revise an opinion after they learn more. Readers who like character-driven fiction and social comedy will find plenty to follow.
Before you start
Expect a nineteenth-century setting and language that takes a little time to adjust to. A chapter or two is usually enough to become familiar with Austen’s rhythm. Avoid summaries that reveal the major turns if you want to discover the characters’ mistakes as they do.
Read a legal free edition: Project Gutenberg’s Pride and Prejudice page offers online and download formats. Check the copyright rules in your own country before using a public-domain edition.