Question

Pride and prejudice as novel of manners​

Answer 1

First published in 1813.

Answer 2

Pride and Prejudice, written by Jane Austen and published in 1813, is indeed considered a novel of manners. It belongs to a genre of literature that emerged in the 18th century called the "novel of manners" or the "comedy of manners."

A novel of manners focuses on the social customs, values, and etiquette of a particular society or social class. It explores the interactions, behaviors, and relationships of characters within that society, often with a satirical or critical tone. These novels typically depict the lives of the upper class or the gentry and often highlight the importance of social status, wealth, marriage, and reputation.

In Pride and Prejudice, Austen portrays the manners and customs of the English landed gentry during the Regency era. The novel revolves around the Bennet family and their five daughters, particularly the protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet. Austen skillfully presents the societal expectations, rituals, and norms of the time, offering a keen commentary on the manners and moral values of her society.

The novel explores themes such as social class, marriage, love, and the impact of societal expectations on personal relationships. Austen's witty and ironic style of writing allows her to satirize the hypocrisies and follies of the characters, as well as the rigid social hierarchy of the time. Through the lens of manners and etiquette, she highlights the consequences of pride, prejudice, and the importance of self-reflection.

Pride and Prejudice remains one of Austen's most beloved works and a classic example of the novel of manners. It continues to captivate readers with its social commentary, memorable characters, and timeless exploration of human relationships within a specific social setting.