Pride and Prejudice

Many consider this rich social commentary to be Jane Austen's finest novel. Austen sets her entertaining study of manners and misconceptions against the backdrop of a class-conscious society in the 18th-century England. Spirited, intelligent Elizabeth Bennet is alternately enchanted and affronted by Mr. Darcy. She is quick to suspend her usual, more rational judgment when it come to him. She is also quick to believe the worst gossip about this haughty, opinionated man, soon manages to alienate Elizabeth and her family. But is the condescending air that Mr. Darcy wears an indication of the his real character? Or has Elizabeth's pride gotten in the way of her chance for true romance?