Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Since I've recently finished reading Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice (and I feel guilty that in all my years of education, it took a movie to induce me to read it), I think we'll begin chatting here.

If you would like to suggest a book to chat about, please email the title and author with a brief explanation of why your suggestion is worthy of discussion. I don't see any reason why we can't have more than one discussion going at once if someone has something worthwhile to say.

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As for Pride and Prejudice...

I think the best compliment I can pay Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is that it is still relevant.

While I don't think many modern-day-wives call their husbands "Mr. _____," a quick listen to the "mom-conversations" at the next neighborhood gathering will probably reveal at least one Mrs. Bennet. She may not be so interested in marrying off her daughters, but she will be keen for everyone to know that her beautiful "_____" is dating the quarterback and has just been named captain of the cheerleading squad. Her other children, if she has them, may pale in comparison to her shining pride and joy. You know the one. She talks incessantly about this one offspring. She criticizes others of her daughter's age to keep the halo from slipping. She may even manipulate others (including this beloved daughter) to attain the position she anticipates for her.

You may be annoyed by these Mrs. Bennets. They have probably trash-talked your children and ruined many a pleasant conversation, but I wonder if there is more to pity than dislike. Perhaps the Mrs. Bennets of the world are so lacking in self-esteem that they need to create an image around this promising child—hoping that it will rub off on them.

What do you think? Do you know any Lizzys, Janes, or Lydias?

If you've read Pride and Prejudice, I welcome your comments. If you haven't, grab a copy and jump right in!