Essay on the Irony of Pride in Pride and Prejudice

The Irony of Pride in Pride and Prejudice Jane Austen uses the elements of both pride and prejudice to develop the satire in her novel. Austen presents pride as both a vice and a virtue. Austen first introduces pride as a vice of arrogance and prejudice, but as the characters in the novel develop so does the concept of pride. Towards the end of the novel pride becomes the vehicle for many of the noble actions taken by the main characters. Austen skillfully interweaves the two parts of pride, the plot, and the main characters so that they develop together in the book. When we get to the end of the novel, we are left with a fuller understanding of the complexities of pride. Throughout the first part of the novel pride is†¦show more content†¦Since he has a large fortune to inherit, he is therefore allowed certain amount of social pride, even if it is disagreeable. His wealth seems to justify his low, prideful behavior in society. But, Elizabeths attitude toward Darcy changes dramatically, when she overhears him talking negatively about her to his friend Bingley, I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men. Elizabeths reaction to Darcys stinging words reveals the extent of her imprudent pride. In expressing her resentment toward Darcys abhorred prideful manner, she says, I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine. Elizabeths indignation comes mostly because she respected his pride, but he did not respect hers. The pride that Darcy displays at the assembly is clearly seen as the most despicable type, the kind that lacks respect for others. The destructive force of conceited pride becomes apparent, when we see the anger and hurt his pride causes Elizabeth. When two overly prideful people collide, much tension, resentment, and anger is sure to follow. It is Darcy and Elizabeths pride that keeps them apart. After their initial encounters, it becomes obvious they are in love with each other, but their pride keeps them both blinded and gagged. Austen makes us feel the yearning andShow MoreRelated Irony in Pride and Prejudice Essay2389 Words   |  10 PagesPride and Prejudice is one of the most popular novels written by Jane Austen. This romantic novel, the story of which revolves around relationships and the difficulties of being in love, was not much of a success in Austens own time. However, it has grown in its importance to literary critics and readerships over the last hundred years. There are many facets to the story that make reading it not only amusing but also highly interesting. 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