Study Questions & Essay Topics
Study Questions
1. Jane Austen's
original title for the novel was
First Impressions.
What role do first impressions play in Pride and Prejudice?
2. Analyze
how Austen depicts Mr. Bennet. Is he a positive or negative figure?
3. Discuss
the importance of dialogue to character development in the novel.
Suggested Essay Topics
1. Discuss the importance of
social class in the novel, especially as it impacts the relationship
between Elizabeth and Darcy.
2. Though Jane Austen satirizes
snobs in her novels, some critics have accused her of being a snob
herself. Giving special consideration to Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins,
argue and defend one side of this issue.
3. Pride and Prejudice is
a novel about women who feel they have to marry to be happy. Taking
Charlotte Lucas as an example, do you think the author is making
a social criticism of her era's view of marriage?
4. Giving special attention to
Wickham, Charlotte Lucas, and Elizabeth, compare and contrast male
and female attitudes toward marriage in the novel.
5. Discuss the relationship between
Mrs. Bennet and her children, especially Elizabeth and Lydia.
6. Compare and contrast the Bingley-Darcy
relationship with the Jane-Elizabeth relationship.
7. Compare and contrast the roles
of Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Mrs. Bennet.
