Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen ~ Book Review

Written in the early 19th century, during a period known as the Regency era in English history, Pride and Prejudice is probably the first title that pops into your head when you hear the name, Jane Austen. Many Austen fans consider Pride and Prejudice to be her best work; it is her best-selling novel, as well as the first choice for most readers trying out her books for the first time.

The book has claimed a high share of fame, and in my opinion, reading it is definitely worth the hype. Personally, I'm not someone who likes to read books in the romance genre, but decided to give this well-reputed book a try... and I can't say I regret it. The story revolves around the life of the Bennet family; Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, their 5 daughters, Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Catherine and Lydia. Mrs. Bennet is anxious to get her daughters married comfortably, before their home is entailed away to Mr. Collins, the Bennet girls' distant cousin. This prospect increases once wealthy Mr. Bingley  and his proud friend, Mr. Darcy move into a nearby house, and Mrs. Bennet is intent on marrying off her two eldest daughters to them. 21 year-old Elizabeth Bennet however, is too smart to blindly go through with this, but as obstacles get thrown and truths are unveiled, she begins to realize her prejudice, making her have a change of heart... 

The protagonist of the book, Elizabeth Bennet, is a very headstrong and witty character. Although she is judgmental  of the characters of people around her, she wishes to marry for love, and not just because a suitor is rich. She judges Mr. Darcy to be excessively proud and haughty, and even thinks that he is responsible for separating her older sister Jane, and Mr. Bingley. She is however, quick to pick up on his real character and how easily she misjudged him, and is keen on repairing the damage that was done. What I liked most about her, was the significant character growth that takes place through the book. From being quick-to-judge and steadfast, she learns to be less judgmental, more aware of her flaws, forgiving and more understanding. Her youngest sister Lydia's elopement also opens her eyes and makes her realize how good it would be for her, to marry Mr. Darcy. By the end of the book, she is a much wiser person than at the beginning.

A fun and engaging book, I found this a very calming read, as I normally read fast paced thriller novels. Jane Austen's writing technique uses so much elegance, and her characters are some of the most realistic ones you'll cross in books; they behave just like people in real life would, each with their own imperfections and flaws, as they go about their daily lives in Regency England.

For people new to reading classics, or books set before the contemporary era, it may take a while to get used to reading the highly formal language used, and I'd advise you to go slowly at first, to understand  the story. 

                                                                                                          ~  ♡ Mridini