Feedback Widget.

Hello!!! Long time, no type.

I am unwinding in front of the 1979 version of Pride and Prejudice, written by Fay Weldon. Quite a bizarre idea to put Austen's words into the mouths of her erstwhile characters (not quite relevant, but I do like the word erstwhile), but it kind of works, despite the wooden, 1970s-BBC production values.

Anyhoo.....

SAC time in 2 sleeps. You will be writing an essay on either class or gender. Remember that Austen uses the narrative techniques of characterisation, irony and dialogue to position the reader to see certain views and values. Try to start using these literary terms. Even if you don't quite pull it off, it's great practice.

(I interrupt this blog to report that Elizabeth Garvie is a delightful Lizzy Bennet!)

If you are writing about class, remember that the historical context of Pride and Prejudice was that the class system was all-pervasive and extremely pronounced. However, Austen shows through her characters, irony and dialogue that class is no replacement for good manners. Consider Lady Catherine de Bourgh.

If you are writing about gender roles and marriage, keep an eye to the complexities of this issue in Austen's time. Women had to get married for financial and social security and Austen reinforces this concept with Charlotte Lucas' pragmatic marriage to Collins, but she also expresses her views that marriage must be based on an equal love, incorporating intellectual and emotional compatibility. Also, keep in mind that Jane and Bingley's love is presented as a romantic ideal; a meeting of two perfectly lovely people, however Austen does not necessarily present them as a completely successful match.

Good luck!!