It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a reader in possession of an intelligent mind must be in want of a Jane Austen novel. From devoted “Janeites” to literary scholars, her stories are as important now as they were when she began, two hundred and ten years ago.

Pride and Prejudice follows the Bennet family in Regency England as they attempt to marry off their five daughters: Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Lydia, and Kitty. No one is more enthralled by the visit of wealthy bachelor, Mr. Bingley, then Mrs. Bennet. Alas, all does not run smoothly. Bingley’s serious and perpetually brooding friend, Mr. Darcy has an agenda of his own.  Matters are further complicated by a nosy, conniving, and utterly enrapturing cast of characters, who are blinded by their own pride and prejudices.

The beauty and complexities of both social structures and interpersonal relationships is what makes the novel remarkable and memorable. Austen wields a sharp pen in her description of social etiquette with a protagonist centuries ahead of her time. The language is precise, sometimes flowery but always eloquent. Although Pride and Prejudice may market itself as a tale of romance, marriage, and even sisterhood, the contradictory and ever-evolving nature of people is the heart of this novel.