Two Lovers in an Austenian Novel of Manners: The Impact of Social Status in Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice is a novel that reflects the reality of life at all times. True love must come through all kind of obstacles such as reputation and class. In Austen‟s novel, the beauty, manner of speech, artistic and musical skills determine the women‟s values. Set in society during the Georgian era, where marrying for wealth and social status is more common than marrying for love and suitability, Elizabeth makes the definite choice to wait for love even though she knows it may never come. The social context of literature provides insight into the ways society has progressed and changed or even maintained its social values. Pride and Prejudice is still a timeless novel that examines relatable events within today‟s society. The power-dynamics between men and women and their effects on marriage and understanding one‟s place and purpose is clearly shown in Austenian literarily approach. Social class is an underlying factor, and the idea of marrying among higher or own class still continues, although it dwindles.