Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is a masterpiece of wit and social commentary, brimming with memorable quotes that encapsulate the novel's themes of love, class, and societal expectations. This guide provides a SparkNotes-style breakdown of some of the most iconic quotes, along with their approximate page numbers (these may vary slightly depending on the edition). Remember that the true beauty of these quotes lies in their context within the larger narrative.
Key Quotes and Their Significance
This section dives into some of the most famous quotes, exploring their meaning and relevance to the story.
1. "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." (Chapter 1)
This opening line sets the stage perfectly. It immediately establishes the novel's central theme: the societal pressure on women to marry well for financial security. It cleverly highlights the mercenary aspects of marriage within the upper class. While seemingly simple, this quote is a potent commentary on the economic realities faced by women in Austen's time. The irony, of course, unfolds as the novel progresses.
2. "My courage always rises at every attempt to intimidate me." (Chapter 13)
This quote, spoken by Elizabeth Bennet, showcases her strong spirit and independent nature. Elizabeth isn't easily swayed by societal pressure or intimidation. This quote foreshadows her defiance of convention and her ultimate triumph over prejudice.
3. "There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil." (Chapter 13)
This quote, spoken by Mr. Darcy, demonstrates his capacity for self-reflection, albeit somewhat flawed. He acknowledges human imperfection, including his own. This quote hints at his eventual growth and self-awareness.
4. "Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us." (Chapter 5)
This quote, also from Mr. Darcy, reveals his attempt to differentiate between vanity and pride. This distinction becomes crucial in understanding his character's development throughout the novel. His initial pride blinds him, while Elizabeth's initial prejudice is driven by assumptions and a degree of vanity.
5. "I am all astonishment." (Chapter 34)
This simple yet potent quote showcases Elizabeth's initial disbelief and shock at Darcy's proposal. Her astonishment highlights the unexpectedness of the event and emphasizes the dramatic irony of the situation.
6. "Till this moment, I never knew myself." (Chapter 36)
This powerful declaration from Elizabeth reflects her journey of self-discovery and growth. Through her interactions with Darcy and her experiences, she gains a deeper understanding of herself and her own prejudices.
7. "You have quite as much pride as I have, and are not so frank." (Chapter 20)
This quote illustrates the central conflict between Elizabeth and Darcy. The parallel between their pride, highlighted by Darcy, reveals the common ground that eventually brings them together. Their shared pride initially serves as a barrier, but the acknowledgement of it becomes a step toward their reconciliation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions related to the book's quotes.
What are some of the most romantic quotes from Pride and Prejudice?
While many quotes highlight the wit and social commentary, some express the blossoming love between Elizabeth and Darcy. Quotes expressing the depth of their feelings often emerge after they overcome their initial prejudices. Specific page numbers are difficult to provide as romance unfolds gradually throughout the novel.
Which quotes best capture the social commentary in Pride and Prejudice?
The opening line, "It is a truth universally acknowledged...", and many of the dialogues discussing marriage and social standing powerfully express Austen's sharp observation of 19th-century English society and its expectations. The novel's wit consistently exposes the absurdities of class and social conventions.
Where can I find more quotes from Pride and Prejudice?
Numerous websites and resources offer extensive collections of quotes from Pride and Prejudice. Searching online for "Pride and Prejudice quotes" will yield a plethora of results.
This detailed analysis aims to provide a deeper understanding of the significance of key quotes within Pride and Prejudice. Remember, context is everything, and reading the novel in its entirety is essential for a complete appreciation of Austen's genius.
