Continued Fame Built On Unrealistic Perspective: Pride and Prejudice Illuminated

Abstract

This essay explores the reasons for the continued fame of Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice, as well as the reasons for Elizabeth Bennet’s and Mr. Darcy’s status of the ideal couple within literary history and the romantic genre, despite the fact that their happily-ever-after ending would be unrealistic and not likely to occur in Regency England. In addition, it explores the novelist’s life and the way it affected her writing, especially in the author's portrayal of the respected Mr. Darcy and his character’s classification as the ideal man as seen through the modern female gaze. It further examines the modern attributes found in the main heroine Elizabeth, who’s characteristics have been compared to Austen’s disposition by the author herself. Further, it examines the historical context surrounding the novel with focus on the domination of gender politics of 19th century regency England in context to its effect amongst all societies, especially the role placement of both men and women inside the home as well outside their domestic life. Lastly, it gives a glimpse into the multitude of modern and past adaptations of the novel, where liberties have been taken to enhance the sensuality of both Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy only hinted at it in the original text. Especially in the onscreen adaptations where various visual liberties have been taken, not only through costume designs but also through original character moments and added dialogue, resulting in the heightened adoration for Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and his ardent love for Elizabeth. All things considered, despite the eagerness to get married well, it is unlikely that Elizabeth would ever have approached Mr. Darcy or conversed with him in general, for this reason a marriage of their variety would never have taken place as it would undoubtedly have disrupted the societal balance of the time.