Helpful Score: 7
I have been reading regency/historical romance for about a year. I thought it would be interesting to read a romance novel that was actually written at that time. I also wanted to try my mind at a classic.
I admit it took me twice as long to read this as a contemporary romance. The phrasing and dialogue is so different you have to read each word. But I was pleasantly surpised by how much I enjoyed the story and the characters. I found myself laughing and really seeing these people as I read it.
The main reason I read romance novels is because I love the tension between the characters as they begin their relationship. There is great tension between Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy.
After reading this book I will be trying some more Jane Austen and possible some other authors of the same time period.
I admit it took me twice as long to read this as a contemporary romance. The phrasing and dialogue is so different you have to read each word. But I was pleasantly surpised by how much I enjoyed the story and the characters. I found myself laughing and really seeing these people as I read it.
The main reason I read romance novels is because I love the tension between the characters as they begin their relationship. There is great tension between Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy.
After reading this book I will be trying some more Jane Austen and possible some other authors of the same time period.
Helpful Score: 3
A witty comedy by Jane Austen which details ahd twists and turns of the romantic courtships in the 1700's. Said to be one of the best love stories of all time, it details the courtship between the suave Mr.Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. It is very funny and a really charming love story that I reccomend greatly. Although it was written awhile ago, the love elements in it are seen in today's society also. The new movie Pride and Prejudice with Kiera Knightley was based on this book.
Helpful Score: 3
This is a small (physically small) book. It is an Illustrated Classics Edition perfect for a middle schooler. It is an adapted version of the original book (only 236 pages)and has illustrations.
Helpful Score: 2
Elizabeth Bennet is young, vivacious, strong-willed, and unmarried. Mr.Darcy is rich, handsome, unbearably arrogant, and...also unmarried. The two are reluctantly attracted to one another. Yet they fight against the love they feel with fierce pride and willful prejudice.
Helpful Score: 2
Absolutely wonderful. One of the most beautiful stories I have read yet. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a clean romance full of humor and sadness. This is one that's hard to put down, A 10 star book for sure.
Helpful Score: 1
Cmon, who doesn't love Pride and Prejudice? Truly a classic of English literature. Very funny and surprisingly insightful novel about a boy, a girl, his friends, her sisters...who's guilty of pride, and who of prejudice? (Are you sure?) And of course, a fun peek into the social values of genteel 19th century England: class, money, marriage. Just a wonderful novel all around.
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent novel. Jane Austen writes a beautiful story with interesting characters.
Helpful Score: 1
This was the 1st book I read by Jane Austin and I just love it. It turned me on to her style of writting and my love affair of her books.
The story is just witty and at points sad. This is one book that stays with you and when you are done reading it you wish it would go on and you are sad to to have leave it and the people it in.
This is not a "Chick" book, as it poke fun at both sexes.
Everyone should read this book at least once in their lives.
The story is just witty and at points sad. This is one book that stays with you and when you are done reading it you wish it would go on and you are sad to to have leave it and the people it in.
This is not a "Chick" book, as it poke fun at both sexes.
Everyone should read this book at least once in their lives.
Helpful Score: 1
Of course, in my permanent library! While I do not re-read this every year like some P&P fans, it is still a classic I return to, mostly for the wonderful storyline and dialogue.
Helpful Score: 1
Much better without the zombies.
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent classic novel. Definitely worth reading.
Helpful Score: 1
the great love story of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. A great classic.
Helpful Score: 1
Witty, enjoyable read with a love story that isn't mushy or trashy.
Helpful Score: 1
This was my first book that I have read by Austen, I have recently learned about a little bit about her and was interested in reading her work.
I am so glad that I did...I can't wait to pick out my next one.
I am so glad that I did...I can't wait to pick out my next one.
Helpful Score: 1
I watched the movie with Kiera Knightley long before I read this book and really enjoyed it. I was really surprised how similar the two are and I think that says good things about the movie. I really enjoyed this book but as with many other classic books it is one that you have to spend a little bit more time on. You can't expect to sit down and just fly through this but if you are willing to give it some time you will not be disappointed. Elizabeth is a wonderful character but her mother and her two youngest sisters are just plain annoying in parts.
Helpful Score: 1
A gentle, satirical novel of the game of matrimony as played in a small English village near the close of the eighteenth century.
Helpful Score: 1
Read Austen's timeless classic before you see the film!
Helpful Score: 1
The this love story is filled with the great classic wit of Jane Austen. It is not only a love story but a fun humorous book.
Helpful Score: 1
I was first turned on to the book, Pride and Prejudice, when I picked up a copy of Wuthering Heights at my local book store. On the inside cover it suggested not to miss Pride and Prejudice and Romeo & Juilet. So of course, I bought them as well!
When I first started reading the book, being that it was written in 1813 and the language being slightly different then, I found the book a little hard to get into. Although, once I got to know the characters and the story began to unfold, I found myself unable to put the book down (literally). The romance, as well as the relationship, between Elizabeth Bennet & Mr. Darcy was highly intriguing and only added to the chemistry that makes this love story truly amazing! Now, I dont want to give away any of the juiciness that lies within the book so I wont say anymore. Youll really just have to read the book!
NOTE: While browsing around, it appears that other authors have written books continuing the Pride and Prejudice story regarding the lives and love of Mr. Darcy & Elizabeth Bennet. So that might be worth looking into for those whove already read and fell in love with, Pride and Prejudice!
When I first started reading the book, being that it was written in 1813 and the language being slightly different then, I found the book a little hard to get into. Although, once I got to know the characters and the story began to unfold, I found myself unable to put the book down (literally). The romance, as well as the relationship, between Elizabeth Bennet & Mr. Darcy was highly intriguing and only added to the chemistry that makes this love story truly amazing! Now, I dont want to give away any of the juiciness that lies within the book so I wont say anymore. Youll really just have to read the book!
NOTE: While browsing around, it appears that other authors have written books continuing the Pride and Prejudice story regarding the lives and love of Mr. Darcy & Elizabeth Bennet. So that might be worth looking into for those whove already read and fell in love with, Pride and Prejudice!
Helpful Score: 1
I love this book, and the plus side is that I just had to re-read it again for class. Jane Austen truly is a romantic basically forming how we read novels today. The sexual tension between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth is visible through the pages. This truly is a magnificent book.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is the children's version of the story. I don't know what reading level it is, probably 6th grade.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of the best romances written. The quiet nature of life during Austen's era is captured so well in this tale of morals and class behaviors. Personally, everyone should read all of Austen's books.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is a classic for a reason. It very well be the perfect love story. I not get enough of this book. I have read it many times over.
Helpful Score: 1
I so enjoyed this book! Kind of criminal that I didn't pick up any Jane Austen until now. I found that although it seems like there's not a lot going on (aside from a conversation here, a card game there, a couple of dinners and the occasional ball) I was riveted. I didn't find the language terribly difficult either. The book isn't fast paced, which I think lends itself nicely to taking your time working through the language. Still finished in a few days. I'm looking forward to Sense and Sensibility next.
Helpful Score: 1
This is my favorite book. It never fails to make me laugh. This quote, the first two sentences of the book, sets the tone for the rest of it:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.
However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be on his first entering a neighborhood, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that he is considered as the rightful property of some one or other of their daughters."
It's all in good fun. Hope you enjoy the read.
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.
However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be on his first entering a neighborhood, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that he is considered as the rightful property of some one or other of their daughters."
It's all in good fun. Hope you enjoy the read.
Helpful Score: 1
"What are men to rocks and mmountains?"
"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a large fortune must be in want of a wife."
Pride and Predjudice is a delicious story of Elizabeth Bennett; bright, witty, and pretty, but just not handsome enough to tempt Mr. Darcy. Worth re-reading over and over again.
"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a large fortune must be in want of a wife."
Pride and Predjudice is a delicious story of Elizabeth Bennett; bright, witty, and pretty, but just not handsome enough to tempt Mr. Darcy. Worth re-reading over and over again.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one ofmy favorite books by Jane Austen. Elizabeth is the person we'd all like to be, and Mr. Darcy is the person we'd like to meet. Shows that not all love is at first sight, but rather after a very tumultuous, rocky beginning. I've read this book probably 20 times at least, and it never gets old.
Helpful Score: 1
I had to read this book for my English 102 class, and I had trouble getting into it... when I did eventually read it, though, it was great! I really like the storyline, and the dialogue is amazing.
Helpful Score: 1
This is about a young woman who unwillingly falls in love with a man considered to be prideful by those who don't know the real him. How long can they deny thier love for one another?
This is an adapted version of pride and prejudice. It was sent along with other readers in my daughter's fifth grade curriculum.
One of my favorite books!
My first Austen read and I wasn't dissapointed! I do agree that you have to slow down when reading older literature but it's worth it! This is a love that develops over time and it's not your boring everyday tale. The characters are well developed and interesting. I love the fact that Lizzy isn't a swooning female, but is full of wit. Five stars for sure!
Love this book and all its characters!
The story of Elizabeth Bennett and her sisters' quests to find romance in proper English society
This is the love story between middle class Elizabeth Bennett and rich aristocratic landowner Fitzwilliam Darcy. They both have to overcome their biases before they realize their love for each other.
Great classic. I listened to the audiobook because I figured it was just easier than reading it. The narration was performed by Rosamund Pike. She did an excellent job with all of the characters. My rating: 5 Stars.
Great classic. I listened to the audiobook because I figured it was just easier than reading it. The narration was performed by Rosamund Pike. She did an excellent job with all of the characters. My rating: 5 Stars.
Fun to have the classics read to you!!
Nice story, anxious to see the movie to see how it measures up. Everyone should read these classics!
Warning! This edition is an abridged childrens version!!!
What's not to love about this book? If you can have the patience to get through some of the slower parts and can focus on the brilliant interactions between the characters, then you will be incredibly satisfied at the end of this beautiful novel. Highly recommended!
This is a loving Victorian novel. I enjoyed the adventures and courtships of the girls. Although their mother (Miss Bennet) and Lady Catherine made me roll my eyes and appreciate the 21st century several times.
Awesome!
The thing I remember most about this book is that Tom Hanks' character tried to plow through it in "You've Got Mail".
oops
oops
The indomitable Jane Austen. Not much else need be said. Of course, this is the classic Love story. The innocence of Miss Austen seeps through every character. If only we could go back to those more innocent times our selves. This is not the first time I have read this book, nor will it be the last. Pride & Prejudice is the kind of book that you wear out, over and over again, in your lifetime. This is my 5th copy. If you've never read this book, I would absolutely suggest it. There is no greater love than That of Mr Darcy and his Elizabeth.
Jane Austen's characters are just wonderful, I see them in people even today. Her humor is perfectly matched with the more serious parts of her novels.
Jane Austen's characters are just wonderful, I see them in people even today. Her humor is perfectly matched with the more serious parts of her novels.
This is the classic English novel of romance. I enjoyed Jane Austen's intelligent writing and ability to vividly portray her characters. "And while she entertains us, Jane Austen teaches us the wisdom of balance, the folly of 'pride' and 'prejudice.'
Wonderful classic!
I loved the book Pride and Prejudice. Like any good book, I was thinking about the characters even when I wasn't reading about them. The relationship between Jane and Elizabeth Bennett is one any pair of sisters would envy. Not surprisingly, I prefer the book to the movie. The book is much more detailed than the condensed version of the movie. I plan to read each of Jane Austen's novels. She is brilliant.
A true classic!
Excellent book...first one I read on my new Nook simple loved it...one I will have to keep and read again and again. Very easy to relate to and great eyeopening story!
Pride and Prejudice is a heartwarming classic about human folly and the roll it plays. Elizabeth Bennett is a wonderfully complex character whose equal has not been created. And Mr. Darcy is an irresistible man who you despise for several chapters and then slowly learn what he is really about. There are so many twists and turns of the plot that sometimes your mind spins with the possiblities. If you've seen a movie version, none of them really captures the book (the only close one is the 6-part miniseries by BBC / A&E). You must read it to get the full sense of the beauty, strife, and emotion that Jane Austen created.
Children's Illustrated Classics
I thought I would read this book since it is a classic and has many good reviews but I simply could not get into it for the life of me. It was hard to follow with nothing except dialogue. I can't give an honest review since I didn't finish the book, but it definitely didn't keep me interested!
Classic, must read! Best Jane Austen book!
this Barnes and Nobles has a nice jacket cover of a man and a woman in a castle room.
My favorite and a classic.
Wonderful read. Just read it and you will see.
jane austen. what can i say?! lovely.
Love the book and Loved the movie. This is a classic!
My favorite book of all time!
This ISBN is for an Illustrated Classics Edition suitable for young children
Illustrated Classic Editions
Timeless classic and always a pleasure to read.
A timeless Classic!
Absolutely enjoyed this classic! Jane Austen is a pleasure to read.
A must read. This is a nice, lightweight, slim, edition to carry around in your purse when you want to keep your beloved hardback copy at home.
I loved this book! You get so into it, you want to laugh at times, cry at times, and yell at the character's judgement sometimes. All in all, it is a classic for a reason...
Great, no matter how many times you read it!
The romantic clash between the opinionated Elizabeth and her proud beau, Mr. Darcy...
One of my favorite classics! I reread it every summer.
A must have classic. Humorous love story.
This is a great classic that everyone should read.
This is the Jane Austen classic. I don't know why it's listing the author as Pamela Norris, as she is only the editor.
I had some trouble understanding some of the terms and phrases, but it's not hard to get the gist of what's going on. This book is awesome and has become my favorite book!
It's a hilarious and honest book about love.
I love this book. I have read it many times and I laugh every time-I also cry. You can't help but love Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth.
Oh So Romantic! =)
I totally love this story!
I wish I was Lizzy- Mr. Darcy is quite the catch!
I wish I was Lizzy- Mr. Darcy is quite the catch!
Romantic novel of the clash between two opinionated young people. This novel captures the affectations of class-conscious Victorian families with matrimonial aims and rivalries.
Awesome book.. typical Austen, not necessarily "adventure" laden, but it follows her signature style and is a great book.
If you have never read Austen, here is one title that will get you hooked. Unparalelled characvter development. The writing enables the reader to quickly be entranced by the characters and their story.
This is a junior library edition but it is hardcover not soft.
This is a wonderful book! When I first heard about it I was sceptical, but by the second chapter, I was hooked. The many twists in this book will make you rethink your own pride and predjudice as well as your assumptions about people.
I LOVE this book. I fall in love with Mr. Darcy every time I read it.
I really liked this book! I read it in a matter of days.
One of my favorite Jane Austen books of all time. Great character development and a wonderful love story. I laughed and cried through the book. This book is one of two copies that I own.
Classic comedy of manners and a woman's social situation in Austen's time.
This is my favorite book of all time. I am trading it because I have two other copies. Wonderful, funny love story.
This is a classic, and just gets better with every re-read. Who was proud and who was prejudiced? If you can't remember, maybe you need to revisit this old friend...
Its a classic and everyone should read it!
I absolutely loved this book. Have read it several times.
I love this book! The dry wit and humor, the sophisticated language so precise and to the point. The character development is so well done I feel like they are all friends of mine!
Classic - Book is a lot better than the film, and the film was excellent. The book allows you to get into the head.
I've read this three or four times over the last quarter of a century, and get something different each time. One of my favorite Austen novels, it is very particular to the time and place in which it is set and yet very timeless. The characters, even the heroine, are flawed and realistic, yet mostly sympathetic. It can be read purely as a love story, or as a satire of societal expectations and conventions, or even as an indictment of an economic system that, through unforgiving inheritance laws, forces people into handling their romantic lives as if they were business ventures. It's worth the effort even if you don't normally go for the "classics."
i loved this book! it gives us a glimpse into what love was in the 19th century. I like how it's very detailed and you have to read every word to get the meaning of each sentence. I recommend it!
Truely insightful book that i love a must read before or after you have seen the movie
This is my favorite Jane Austen book. I couldn't help but fall in love with Mr. Darcy, and I found Elizabeth to be a much likeable female character than those in some of Austen's other books (I found Emma Woodhouse, for example, to be incredibly irritating).
Beautiful, everytime I read it.
One of Jane Austen's best!
Okay, but kind of boring to me.
I did read this classic quite some time ago, and cannot fit it into my schedule, but this book is a part of a set of 8 (eight) classics originally sold as a set. Please check out my other classics for sale, also. Thanks! lll
MP3 FORMAT AUDIOBOOK WITH VISUALS. This is an audiobook read by Anne Flosnik, but it's also in the form of a watchalong DVD with text and illustrations on screen. You can listen to the book alone, without looking at the text on screen. It comes with instructions on how to transfer the MP3 audio files to your computer, from which (unless you're a techno-idiot like me) you can transfer them to other devices that play MP3 files. The narrator Anne Flosnik has read many Mary Balogh and Catherine Coulter romances onto audiobook, and gives the book a good semi-dramatized reading - not flat like a textbook nor a full performance as you would get from an actor, but somewhere in between.
There's a reason it's a classic. An excellent book.
Truly a classic!
If you missed the movies,you can catch up here.
Just a great classic.
My favorite Austen.
What a chore. I've enjoyed the movie adaptions I've seen of several of Jane Austen's works. Maybe that's why I thought I'd enjoy reading this book. The main characters were interesting, so I can't quite but my finger on why I didn't like it. Maybe it's my current state-of-mind, but I won't read Austen for pleasure again. Normally, I the sort of person who prefers the book to the movie, but not in this case. I wouldn't have made it past the first 100 pages had I not rented the 1995 BBC / A&E mini-series. It's an excellent adaptation and the movie kept me engaged enough to finish the book.
Jane Austen Classic. Several movies made from this book.
What's a girl to do? Scatterbrained, social climbing Mrs. Bennet makes one demand of her five daughters. Marry. Marry well. Marry RICH. But sweet Jane is hopelessly in love with Mr. Bingley, who doesn't seem to notice. Flighty Lydia wants a man--any man--preferably one in uniform. Kitty just wants to have fun. Shy Mary has her nose in a book. And Elizabeth--brilliant, stubborn, independent Lizzy--refuses the advances of the most "marriageable" man in town--haughty, handsome, wealthy Mr. Darcy.
This was an alright book. It's not what I was expecting though. This was the first of Jane Austen's books that I've read and will more than likely be the last. It took me a while to get through this one. Definitely a classic though.
By far one of my favorite books. Not difficult to read. The story moves so that I am never bored, and for the most part the characters are intriguing and engaging. If you have not read this bookd--you should.
And you will see that the plotline has been used by many authors since Jane Austen. If you are looking for more modern version--see Bridget Jones' Diary. Personally I don't think Bridget Jones is nearly as endearing as Elizabeth Bennet. But the similarities in the plotline are unmistakable
And you will see that the plotline has been used by many authors since Jane Austen. If you are looking for more modern version--see Bridget Jones' Diary. Personally I don't think Bridget Jones is nearly as endearing as Elizabeth Bennet. But the similarities in the plotline are unmistakable
This was my first Jane Austen book and I enjoyed it.
I loved reading this book, and so I bought a paperback version to share via bookcrossing - but here works too! This is an older edition than the one shown.
A classic, yes... Loved by some, loathed by me. But at least I've read it and can discuss it. Full of shallow people, worring about shallow things. Manners, money, but no one is willing to do a day's work.
I did not get the hype surrounding this book. My expectations were much higher than the book delivered, although classics are usually hit or miss for me.
Loved reading this book. The author absolutely names the anxieties and angst of developing love - does the other person love me the way I love them. He loves me; he loves me know... Wonderful.
A classic everyone must have in their home (I've got two copies). Great condition.
This is a very good book...
I don't question Jane Austin's ability to write a novel. She wrote a long piece of literature with scenes, characters and plot. That being said, I do question the point of Pride and Prejudice. Further, I question her ability to create any sort of likable characters.
I know I'm supposed to like Elizabeth, but she just talks smack the entire novel. We'll call it wit if you want, but when we do, realize I mean snarky gossip about people she dislikes at the moment. The main person she is witty toward through the novel is Mr. Darcy. I know I'm supposed to see Darcy as a terribly grumpy beast with a heart of gold that succumbs to and is tamed by the witty beauty by the end of the novel. Thing is, he's an ass who only succumbs because she's the one thing he's been refused in life.
Elizabeth isn't handsome enough for Mr. Darcy to start, he finds her family embarrassing, and her station in life is too far below his to even consider her a candidate for marriage. But, since Elizabeth insults him through the entire book and acts like she wouldn't want him anyway, he can't help but be attracted to and violently in love with Elizabeth. Mind you, he still thinks it's cool to break up her sister's marriage, since she's involved with someone above her station.
Elizabeth spends most of the novel talking about how much she despises the idea of marriage, and how big a jerk Darcy is. Then everything changesElizabeth finds out Darcy is rich. Okay that's not all. His servant, someone completely dependent on Darcy's good will, says he's a good guy. Add to that an uncharacteristic civility toward the people Elizabeth is hanging out with and Darcy's new attitude, obvious wealth, and proper social etiquette provide Elizabeth the rationalization she needs to find love in a marriage that will also provide the security and social standing she claimed to neither want or need.
The first impression I had of Pride and Prejudice was that Jane Austen was writing a comedic tale poking fun at the social etiquette and expectations of her time, specifically challenging the idea that marriage is an institution devoid of love but focused on financial and societal improvement. By the end of the story, however, love was used as an excuse to enter into a marriage which provides financial and social improvement, and social etiquette and expectations are presented as a means to ensure the stability and respect of ones family. Elizabeth is initially presented as a strong-willed woman caught between love and money. This conflict, however, ends up a strawmanset up only to create a means to provide her with both love _and_ money, while eliminating her wit in favor for romance. Darcy is presented as a brooding aristocrat with little to be desired beyond his money. Yet the initial impression ends up completely reversed, with minimal to no explanation. He becomes the perfect prospective husband, and allows for a socially acceptable and conveniently romantic marriage by the end of the story.
The characters are unlikeable, the plot is conveniently altered for a faux-happy ending, and the novel is filled with more gossip and annoying dialogue than actual development of storyline. If you want to support the abusive dynamic of winning over and fixing a man who treats you like trash, this is the book for you. Otherwise, I'm not even sure it could be saved with zombies.
I know I'm supposed to like Elizabeth, but she just talks smack the entire novel. We'll call it wit if you want, but when we do, realize I mean snarky gossip about people she dislikes at the moment. The main person she is witty toward through the novel is Mr. Darcy. I know I'm supposed to see Darcy as a terribly grumpy beast with a heart of gold that succumbs to and is tamed by the witty beauty by the end of the novel. Thing is, he's an ass who only succumbs because she's the one thing he's been refused in life.
Elizabeth isn't handsome enough for Mr. Darcy to start, he finds her family embarrassing, and her station in life is too far below his to even consider her a candidate for marriage. But, since Elizabeth insults him through the entire book and acts like she wouldn't want him anyway, he can't help but be attracted to and violently in love with Elizabeth. Mind you, he still thinks it's cool to break up her sister's marriage, since she's involved with someone above her station.
Elizabeth spends most of the novel talking about how much she despises the idea of marriage, and how big a jerk Darcy is. Then everything changesElizabeth finds out Darcy is rich. Okay that's not all. His servant, someone completely dependent on Darcy's good will, says he's a good guy. Add to that an uncharacteristic civility toward the people Elizabeth is hanging out with and Darcy's new attitude, obvious wealth, and proper social etiquette provide Elizabeth the rationalization she needs to find love in a marriage that will also provide the security and social standing she claimed to neither want or need.
The first impression I had of Pride and Prejudice was that Jane Austen was writing a comedic tale poking fun at the social etiquette and expectations of her time, specifically challenging the idea that marriage is an institution devoid of love but focused on financial and societal improvement. By the end of the story, however, love was used as an excuse to enter into a marriage which provides financial and social improvement, and social etiquette and expectations are presented as a means to ensure the stability and respect of ones family. Elizabeth is initially presented as a strong-willed woman caught between love and money. This conflict, however, ends up a strawmanset up only to create a means to provide her with both love _and_ money, while eliminating her wit in favor for romance. Darcy is presented as a brooding aristocrat with little to be desired beyond his money. Yet the initial impression ends up completely reversed, with minimal to no explanation. He becomes the perfect prospective husband, and allows for a socially acceptable and conveniently romantic marriage by the end of the story.
The characters are unlikeable, the plot is conveniently altered for a faux-happy ending, and the novel is filled with more gossip and annoying dialogue than actual development of storyline. If you want to support the abusive dynamic of winning over and fixing a man who treats you like trash, this is the book for you. Otherwise, I'm not even sure it could be saved with zombies.
I enjoyed this book only because I really like the movie with Kiera Knightly. Jane's English is old fashioned and a little difficult to read with ease. I was impressed that the movie stuck quite closely to the book!
I don't question Jane Austin's ability to write a novel. She wrote a long piece of literature with scenes, characters and plot. That being said, I do question the point of Pride and Prejudice. Further, I question her ability to create any sort of likable characters.
I know I'm supposed to like Elizabeth, but she just talks smack the entire novel. We'll call it wit if you want, but when we do, realize I mean snarky gossip about people she dislikes at the moment. The main person she is witty toward through the novel is Mr. Darcy. I know I'm supposed to see Darcy as a terribly grumpy beast with a heart of gold that succumbs to and is tamed by the witty beauty by the end of the novel. Thing is, he's an ass who only succumbs because she's the one thing he's been refused in life.
Elizabeth isn't handsome enough for Mr. Darcy to start, he finds her family embarrassing, and her station in life is too far below his to even consider her a candidate for marriage. But, since Elizabeth insults him through the entire book and acts like she wouldn't want him anyway, he can't help but be attracted to and violently in love with Elizabeth. Mind you, he still thinks it's cool to break up her sister's marriage, since she's involved with someone above her station.
Elizabeth spends most of the novel talking about how much she despises the idea of marriage, and how big a jerk Darcy is. Then everything changesElizabeth finds out Darcy is rich. Okay that's not all. His servant, someone completely dependent on Darcy's good will, says he's a good guy. Add to that an uncharacteristic civility toward the people Elizabeth is hanging out with and Darcy's new attitude, obvious wealth, and proper social etiquette provide Elizabeth the rationalization she needs to find love in a marriage that will also provide the security and social standing she claimed to neither want or need.
The first impression I had of Pride and Prejudice was that Jane Austen was writing a comedic tale poking fun at the social etiquette and expectations of her time, specifically challenging the idea that marriage is an institution devoid of love but focused on financial and societal improvement. By the end of the story, however, love was used as an excuse to enter into a marriage which provides financial and social improvement, and social etiquette and expectations are presented as a means to ensure the stability and respect of ones family. Elizabeth is initially presented as a strong-willed woman caught between love and money. This conflict, however, ends up a strawmanset up only to create a means to provide her with both love _and_ money, while eliminating her wit in favor for romance. Darcy is presented as a brooding aristocrat with little to be desired beyond his money. Yet the initial impression ends up completely reversed, with minimal to no explanation. He becomes the perfect prospective husband, and allows for a socially acceptable and conveniently romantic marriage by the end of the story.
The characters are unlikeable, the plot is conveniently altered for a faux-happy ending, and the novel is filled with more gossip and annoying dialogue than actual development of storyline. If you want to support the abusive dynamic of winning over and fixing a man who treats you like trash, this is the book for you. Otherwise, I'm not even sure it could be saved with zombies.
I know I'm supposed to like Elizabeth, but she just talks smack the entire novel. We'll call it wit if you want, but when we do, realize I mean snarky gossip about people she dislikes at the moment. The main person she is witty toward through the novel is Mr. Darcy. I know I'm supposed to see Darcy as a terribly grumpy beast with a heart of gold that succumbs to and is tamed by the witty beauty by the end of the novel. Thing is, he's an ass who only succumbs because she's the one thing he's been refused in life.
Elizabeth isn't handsome enough for Mr. Darcy to start, he finds her family embarrassing, and her station in life is too far below his to even consider her a candidate for marriage. But, since Elizabeth insults him through the entire book and acts like she wouldn't want him anyway, he can't help but be attracted to and violently in love with Elizabeth. Mind you, he still thinks it's cool to break up her sister's marriage, since she's involved with someone above her station.
Elizabeth spends most of the novel talking about how much she despises the idea of marriage, and how big a jerk Darcy is. Then everything changesElizabeth finds out Darcy is rich. Okay that's not all. His servant, someone completely dependent on Darcy's good will, says he's a good guy. Add to that an uncharacteristic civility toward the people Elizabeth is hanging out with and Darcy's new attitude, obvious wealth, and proper social etiquette provide Elizabeth the rationalization she needs to find love in a marriage that will also provide the security and social standing she claimed to neither want or need.
The first impression I had of Pride and Prejudice was that Jane Austen was writing a comedic tale poking fun at the social etiquette and expectations of her time, specifically challenging the idea that marriage is an institution devoid of love but focused on financial and societal improvement. By the end of the story, however, love was used as an excuse to enter into a marriage which provides financial and social improvement, and social etiquette and expectations are presented as a means to ensure the stability and respect of ones family. Elizabeth is initially presented as a strong-willed woman caught between love and money. This conflict, however, ends up a strawmanset up only to create a means to provide her with both love _and_ money, while eliminating her wit in favor for romance. Darcy is presented as a brooding aristocrat with little to be desired beyond his money. Yet the initial impression ends up completely reversed, with minimal to no explanation. He becomes the perfect prospective husband, and allows for a socially acceptable and conveniently romantic marriage by the end of the story.
The characters are unlikeable, the plot is conveniently altered for a faux-happy ending, and the novel is filled with more gossip and annoying dialogue than actual development of storyline. If you want to support the abusive dynamic of winning over and fixing a man who treats you like trash, this is the book for you. Otherwise, I'm not even sure it could be saved with zombies.
Oh what a dull, tedious tale of vapid self-obsessed youths....
I know, I know... It's a "classic". Yes, Jane Austen is a female literary hero. No, her books are not at all interesting.
I know, I know... It's a "classic". Yes, Jane Austen is a female literary hero. No, her books are not at all interesting.
I am not a Jane Austen fan. I waded through her books begrudgingly when I was forced to in high school English class, but this is the one exception. Pride and Prejudice is a good classic choice for tween girls, and one that they will probably revisit when they are adults.
Re: the cover of this edition. I notice with dismay that Barnes and Nobles have chosen a painting by Manet which shows ladies dressed in the fashions of several decades after the time of Austen. I'm sure they could have found something more appropriate.
Probably didn't know the difference.
Probably didn't know the difference.
Wow what a hard book to read. many times I had no idea what the charactors were even taking about. Hard to follow as we do not speak the way the book was written.
This was a book I had to read in college and I never became interested in it nor did I understand it very well. I always thought that I might read it again to get a better understanding of the story but I did not.
Perfect condition ! Has never even been read.
My first Jane Austen book
It's a classic.
Carried around by a teenager so slightly worn...still in great condition, though.
I have not read this book.
