"Pride and Prejudice"

Book Review # 95980

English > Analysis
Literature > English

An analysis of suitors and marriage in the 1700-1800s, as depicted in "Pride and Prejudice," by Jane Austen.

1,910 words () | 0 sources | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses "Pride and Prejudice," written by Jane Austen in 1813. The paper particularly discusses the depiction in the novel of the struggles that were endured by most families in the 1700s to find suitable spouses for their daughters to marry. It specifically discusses the lack of choice that is accorded to the woman and how this is shown in the novel.

From the Paper:

"Desire and fulfillment are evidently dissimilar, but on closer examination, desire and fulfillment are easily manipulated to collaborate. By looking at the Bennet girls as examples, it is easier to understand this conception. It is evident that Elizabeth knew what she wanted for her marriage and she helped assist its happening. She "made her own luck" as some might say. The opposite of this sensibility, of taking control of your own life and its affairs, is Pollyannaish. Jane is a precise example of how a Pollyanna behaves. She allowed things to occur in her life without trying to have any form of control over them. Lydia desired to be married, and although fulfillment of her aspiration did eventually come, rushing its happening forced it to end unfortunately. To understand how to manipulate desire and fulfillment to collaborate peacefully, like Elizabeth, you must be patient, motivated, and adept."