Darcy and his Pride.

Elizabeth and Wickham talk of Darcy's pride. (Chapter XVI)

Wickham:

"- for almost all his actions may be traced to pride; -and pride has often been his best friend. It has connected him nearer with virtue than any other feeling. But we are none of us consistent; and in his behaviour to me, there were no stronger impulses even than pride" 

Elizabeth:

“Can such abominable pride as his have ever done him good?”

Wickham:

“Yes. It has often led him to be liberal and generous,- to give his money freely, to display hospitality, to assist his tenants, and relieve the poor. Family pride, and filial pride, for he is very proud of what his father was, have done this. Not to appear to disgrace his family, to degenerate from the popular qualities, or to lose the influence of the Pemberley House, is a powerful motive. He has also brotherly pride, which with some brotherly affection, makes him a very kind and careful guardian of his sister; and you will hear him generally cried up as the most attentive and best of brothers.”  

(Pride and Prejudice. – Jane Austen)

When you read this book, forget not its title.

For every good author ensures that the title relates to the core of the book.

Thus, look out for the many colours and faces of Pride and Prejudice throughout the book.

The greatest of authors also write in a fashion that allows the reader to feel the emotions of the characters.

I KNOW Jane Austen was a GREAT author.

I see the many shades of pride unfolding… I expect to develop a prejudice against Darcy, and some other characters in a few more chapters. And as the book goes on, I also expect to be prejudiced against Elizabeth.

We’ll see how well I know Jane Austen’s style.