Originally published in 1813, Pride and Prejudice is a tale about etiquette by Jane Austen. Elizabeth Bennet, the novel’s energetic protagonist, undergoes a transformation during the course of the story as she realizes the dangers of making snap decisions and the distinction between outward and within virtue.

While Mr. Bennet, owner of the Hertfordshire estate known as Longbourn, does have five daughters, only a male heir may inherit the land due to entailments. Since his wife has no inheritance either, his loved ones stand to be economically devastated in his absence. Thus, the story hinges on the necessity of a successful marriage for at least one of the daughters so that the family may continue to provide for the others.

Among both academics and general readers, Pride and Prejudice is often considered one of the best novels ever written. More than 20 million copies have been sold of this novel, making it one of the best-selling books of all time. [1][2] Dramatic adaptations, reprints, unofficial sequels, films, and TV adaptations of Pride and Prejudice have been popular with audiences for over a century.