“Mr. Bennet was so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve, and caprice, that the experience of three and twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand his character. Her mind was less difficult to develop. She was a woman of mean understanding, little information, and uncertain temper. When she was discontented she fancied herself nervous. The business of her life was to get her daughters married; its solace was visiting and news.” -Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 1
Work Copied: Pride and Prejudice Chapter 1
One of the most engaging aspects of Austen’s writing is her masterful use of opposites. Pride and Prejudice would not be the same book without the sarcasm of Mr. Bennet challenged by the silliness of his wife. Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy would not draw so many readers into their relationship if their personalities were not completely antithetical to each other.
In connection with using opposites as a literary technique, Austen’s characters demonstrate traits that are absurdly overdramatized. The underlying ideas of the book come alive through the characters.
I love this about Austen’s work. I want my writing to have the engagement that Austen’s does. Stories that draw the reader in like hers are well worth reading!