Pride and Prejudice

About “Pride and Prejudice”

Pride and Prejudice is an 1813 novel of manners written by Jane Austen. The story follows Elizabeth Bennet, the protagonist, as she learns about the consequences of making quick judgments and comes to understand the difference between outward kindness and true goodness. The novel is set in Hertfordshire and centers on the Bennet family, who live at the Longbourn estate. Mr. Bennet owns the estate, but it is entailed, meaning it can only be inherited by a male relative. The family has five daughters, and without a male heir, they will lose their home after Mr. Bennet's death. Mrs. Bennet is concerned about finding suitable husbands for her daughters to ensure their financial security. This situation drives much of the novel's plot.