Study Questions for Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice
What is the role of the opening paragraph in the novel? How does it introduce the central themes? How is it related to the rest of the chapter? What rhetorical device does Austen use in this paragraph?
What are the central themes of the novel? How are they revealed in the plot?
What is the `entail'? What is its importance in the novel? How important are the issues of money in the novel? How much does Mr Darcy have? How much does Elizabeth have?
The working title for this novel was `First Impressions'. What role do first impressions play in the novel? Study first impressions of the main characters - Elizabeth, Darcy, Jane and Bingley.
Do you think that Pride and Prejudice is a better title? In what ways are Darcy and Elizabeth both guilty of prejudice and pride? How does this drive the action of the novel? What are other examples of pride and prejudice in the novel. Find appropriate passages to illustrate your answers.
How are Elizabeth's wit , intelligence and independence revealed in the novel? To what extent is she misguided by these features of her character? The novel is often said to deal with the moral education of the heroine; can you notice how Elizabeth is `educated' in the novel?
How is the theme of marriage presented in the novel? What kind of marriage does Elizabeth aspire to? How are relations between married couples presented in the novel? Compare Elizabeth's views on marriage with those of Charlotte Lucas. How is the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy contrasted with the relationship between her parents?
Elizabeth is the main focalizer in the novel, which means that we perceive most of the events in the novel from her point of view. How does it influence our perception of the events? Look up the definition of free indirect discourse. Can you find examples of Austen using it in the novel? What is its function in the novel?
What is the role of Darcy's letter? Study Elizabeth's reaction to the letter and pay close attention to the alteration in her feelings and judgment when she considers the letter.