Pride & Prejudice Read-Along | Conclusion

Welcome to the final discussion for the Pride & Prejudice read-along!

Today we're going to discuss chapters 7-19 of volume 3. If you came prepared, go ahead and share your thoughts in the comments section or in your own post! (Feel free to use the image above, linking back to the Pride & Prejudice read-along tag.) If you still have to catch up on some reading, you're welcome to check in later this week or whenever you're ready. :)

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

~ ~ ~

Pride & Prejudice Volume III: Chapters 7-19

Discussion Format: One favorite quote, some general impressions, and three questions for each week's reading.

Favorite Quote

"I cannot fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look, or the words, which laid the foundation. It is too long ago. I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun." ~ Mr. Darcy

General Impressions

Minus a few bumps in the road, this section of the story was all uphill in the best of ways for the Bennet family. It's been a long journey of growth and hardship and starting over, but what a happy conclusion this turned out to be! :)

While I might wish to know this sweet side of Mr. Darcy even better, he has certainly proven himself to be a worthy Austen hero. His care for Lizzy, his aid to her family, and his newfound humility all do him great credit. I love seeing his honesty about his character (both the good and bad aspects of it), his willingness to admit his faults, and his desire to be a better, kinder, more patient man. ♥

And I'm delighted by his relationship with Lizzy. Isn't that the best, how two people who had so many misunderstandings and so much awkwardness between them could fall in love and have such an easygoing openness between them? I love how Lizzy asks Mr. Darcy all kinds of questions, and how the two of them can talk of the past and find an even greater hope for the future. Not to mention, I love this line about Georgiana's observations:

At first she often listened with astonishment bordering on alarm at her [Lizzy's] lively, sportive manner of talking to her brother.

Too cute!

In this conclusion to a brilliant story, pretension is cast aside in favor of true joy and a deeper look at the worth behind the title or lack thereof. I love that we get a glimpse into the "happily ever after" for each character. Basically, I just keep saying how much I love it all, don't I? :)

Discussion Questions

Feel free to answer one, two, or all three of these questions in the comments section or in your own blog post!

1. Which character's words or actions shocked you the most in this section (in a good or bad way)? How would you have responded if those words or actions somehow affected you?

2. How would you describe the main moral of the story? Is there a lesson or reminder that especially stood out to you by the end?

3. Which aspect of the final chapter made you smile the most?

Final Note

Friends, I think this might just be my favorite Jane Austen book now. ♥ So far I've read Persuasion, Northanger Abbey, Emma, and this one. They all have been delightful in their own ways, but there really is something about this story—the cast of characters, the twists and turns of the plot, the great dialogue, and the admirable growth—that has especially endeared it to me.

It's been a pleasure reading this book with you, and I've so enjoyed your observations! I have the next Austen book in mind for a future read-along, Lord willing...and I plan to review a retelling of it in a couple weeks for a special blog tour. Stay tuned!

Pride & Prejudice Read-Along | Week 4

Welcome to Week 4 of the Pride & Prejudice read-along! You can learn more about the read-along schedule in this invitation post. (We're reading 2 chapters a day.)

Today we're going to discuss chapters 12-19 of volume 2 and chapters 1-6 of volume 3. If you came prepared, go ahead and share your thoughts in the comments section or in your own post! (Feel free to use the image above, linking back to the Pride & Prejudice read-along tag.) If you still have to catch up on some reading, you're welcome to check in later this week or whenever you're ready. :)

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

~ ~ ~

Pride & Prejudice Volume II: Chapters 12-19 and 
Volume III: Chapters 1-6

Discussion Format: One favorite quote, some general impressions, and three questions for each week's reading.

Favorite Quote

"Elizabeth was shocked to think that, however incapable of such coarseness of expression herself, the coarseness of the sentiment was little other than her own breast had formerly harbored and fancied liberal!"

General Impressions

True character really comes to light in this section...

Mr. Darcy tells all in his letter, and then reveals a change in his attitude and interactions with Elizabeth when she visits Pemberley with her aunt and uncle. He displays forgiveness, care, and kindness.

Elizabeth begins to realize her own prejudice and the unkindness lurking in her heart. She opens her mind to the words of those who know Darcy and Wickham best, and she shows tenderness to Georgiana by seeing behind the "proud" mask to the fear and shyness beneath.

Jane is as sweet as ever, taking care of her aunt and uncle's children while they go off with her sister on vacation, and then displaying hope and love in the face of scandal and pain.

Mr. Bingley is also as sweet as ever, showing through his conversation and thoughtfulness that Jane and Elizabeth have been on his mind and heart during their time apart.

Miss Bingley sadly attacks Elizabeth (verbally, behind her back) and shows little to no cordiality upon their reunion. Her selfishness and pride leak through her actions and words.

Mr. Wickham and Lydia have run away together, with no guarantee of marriage or commitment, and no thought of how their choice would affect others.

Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Bennet both show selfish tendencies. The narrator and Elizabeth come down rather harshly on Mr. Bennet in chapter 19 (volume II) for the way he views his wife and the way he chooses to hide among his books rather than lead his family. Meanwhile, Mrs. Bennet is quick to seek folly and blame others for the consequences, thinking too much of frivolity and little of propriety.

Mr. Collins...well, his letter in chapter 6 (volume III) really says it all, doesn't it? He may think he made a narrow escape, but I think Elizabeth's the one who can claim that victory.

And now we just have one more week of reading to go! But there is still a lot to be resolved. Lydia and Mr. Wickham are nowhere to be found... Mr. Darcy has disappeared, and his relationship with Elizabeth is a mystery to onlookers... Jane and Mr. Bingley obviously care for each other, but are still separated... And the fate of the Bennet family hinges on a marriage.

Discussion Questions

Feel free to answer one, two, or all three of these questions in the comments section or in your own blog post!

1. Who do you think has changed the most since the beginning of the story? What are some examples of how he or she has changed for the better or for the worse?

2. What are your impressions of Pemberley (Darcy's home), including the appearance, the location, and the people who work/live there?

3. If you were a Bennet daughter and got word of Lydia's disappearance, do you think you'd respond more like Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, or Kitty?

Join us next Tuesday for our final discussion! 

(Vol. III: Ch. 7-19)

Pride & Prejudice Read-Along | Week 3

Welcome to Week 3 of the Pride & Prejudice read-along! You can learn more about the read-along schedule in this invitation post. (We're reading 2 chapters a day.)

Today we're going to discuss chapters 21-23 of volume I and chapters 1-11 of volume 2. If you came prepared, go ahead and share your thoughts in the comments section or in your own post! (Feel free to use the image above, linking back to the Pride & Prejudice read-along tag.) If you still have to catch up on some reading, you're welcome to check in later this week or whenever you're ready. :)

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

~ ~ ~

Pride & Prejudice Volume I: Chapters 21-23 and 
Volume II: Chapters 1-11

Discussion Format: One favorite quote, some general impressions, and three questions for each week's reading.

Favorite Quote

"Next to being married, a girl likes to be crossed in love a little now and then. It is something to think of, and gives her a sort of distinction among her companions." ~ Mr. Bennet

General Impressions

How interesting that when last we left Elizabeth, she had just turned down a proposal from Mr. Collins...and now we end this section with her turning down another proposal. But it's hard to blame her when neither of the offers are very appealing, given the information she knows and the assumptions she has made.

I must admit it's rather telling that Elizabeth is so willing to forgive Mr. Wickham for seeking a more profitable match, while she holds it very much against Mr. Darcy for having concerns about making a match with her. And her conversation with Jane suggests she also cannot imagine Charlotte making a match that would benefit herself materially at the expense of mutual love and respect. I'm not quite sure what to make of all that, to be honest!

I think I have to agree with Elizabeth's aunt: "Take care, Lizzy; that speech savors strongly of disappointment." By excusing Wickham and thinking of him in only a friendly manner (wishing him the best), she would certainly put distance between herself and any personal disappointment or hurt. Not that I can blame her! I feel like I understand. But it's in her lack of grace toward Charlotte (mostly just at first) and Mr. Darcy that is difficult to accept.

Difficult to accept, perhaps, but also easy to understand. She's a fallible human being who wants the best for her family and friends, and isn't as eager to see her perceived enemies in a forgiving light.

It makes her relatable. Elizabeth is like a fierce friend to commiserate with; whereas Jane is the one who inspires and motivates someone to grow in love and compassion. I suppose in some ways I wish Jane were more open with her feelings, but I definitely do admire her for wanting to make "allowances" (as it says at the end of chapter 1, volume II) and think the best of others.

As for the other characters... Well, the group at Rosings is an odd bunch. Fitzwilliam seems nice enough. I feel sorry for Anne in some ways, but she doesn't seem eager to break free from her mother's shadow or reach out to others. I like that Elizabeth and Darcy don't encourage Lady Catherine in her rudeness.

And Mr. Darcy still hasn't won me over. ;) But he's had his favorable moments! Like when he shows affection for his sister, and when he listens to Elizabeth even when he's angry and suffering. (In chapter 11, volume 2, it says at one point "he listened without attempting to interrupt her." I feel like that says a lot, especially in that context.) He's awkward and proud, but I'm looking forward to seeing more to him in future chapters.

Discussion Questions

Feel free to answer one, two, or all three of these questions in the comments section or in your own blog post!

1. In chapter 1 of volume II Jane tells Elizabeth, "Let me take it in the best light"—referring to the situation with the Bingleys. Do you admire Jane for her way of approaching life, or do you think she's too naive? Is it better to always think positively, or are there times when it's more harmful than good?

2. Pick a character from this section of reading and imagine yourself having a conversation with him or her. How would it go? What would you talk about, and how would you respond to this person's attitude and manners?

3. How would you respond to Mr. Darcy's proposal in this section?

Join us next Tuesday for our fourth discussion! 

(Vol. II: Ch. 12 - Vol. III: Ch. 6)

Pride & Prejudice Read-Along | Week 2

Welcome to Week 2 of the Pride & Prejudice read-along! You can learn more about the read-along schedule in this invitation post. (We're reading 2 chapters a day.)

Today we're going to discuss chapters 7-20 (Volume I). If you came prepared, go ahead and share your thoughts in the comments section or in your own post! (Feel free to use the image above, linking back to the Pride & Prejudice read-along tag.) If you still have to catch up on some reading, you're welcome to check in later this week or whenever you're ready. :)

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

~ ~ ~

Pride & Prejudice Volume I: Chapters 7-20

Discussion Format: One favorite quote, some general impressions, and three questions for each week's reading.

Favorite Quote

"Laugh as much as you choose, but you will not laugh me out of my opinion." ~ Jane Bennet

General Impressions

We met some infamous characters in this section, including Mr. Wickham and Mr. Collins. But before I talk about them, I have to say how very much I love Mr. Bingley. He's not perfect, but his attentiveness to Jane is the sweetest. :) He defends her family; he sees to her (and their) needs; and he displays such affection in the ways he talks about Jane and how often he talks to her.

Following this, I have to say I'm still delighted by the sisterly bond between Jane and Elizabeth. I think it's the best how happy Elizabeth is for Jane, and how it changes her mood and perspective simply to think about her sister's joy and prospects. I love that! It definitely makes Elizabeth a better heroine in my eyes.

While Jane was in the spotlight quite a bit at the beginning, Elizabeth is now center stage...surrounded by Mr. Darcy, Mr. Wickham, and Mr. Collins. Such very different possibilities in suitors!

I'm still torn about Mr. Darcy. The fact that his full story remains secret makes him mysterious but not someone I can fully sympathize with. Despite knowing what's to be revealed (at least from a movie adaptation), I think his mannerisms and slightly stoic ways still keep me from liking him a great deal. I appreciate that Elizabeth is making him smile more, and I like that his affection for her keeps his temper in check. And I know he has a vastly different personality than Bingley... But his pride certainly presents a barrier to my own affections at this point.

I wonder what I would think of Mr. Wickham if I didn't already know the plot. He's charming, I'll give him that...but his eagerness to put down Mr. Darcy does him no credit, even if he were telling the truth. And while he seems to favor Elizabeth with his attention, it's hard to tell at this point if he actually has any feelings for her.

As for Mr. Collins...well, I have to admit I thought it funny that he's described as "tall" and "heavy-looking," when he's presented as the exact opposite in the 2005 movie adaptation! And I confess Mr. Bennet's amusement in Mr. Collins's behavior is pretty hilarious. ;) I'm glad the narrator provides a description of why Mr. Collins is the way he is...it helps to understand his strange behavior and odd mix of personalities. It feels like he means well, to the limited extent of his self-knowledge, but I think he needs some parental honesty, someone to show him how to be a little more self-aware about his pride and annoying speeches. One would hope that a clergyman would have a deeper understanding of humility...

One other thing I wanted to note was how I've been surprised by the context of some popular quotes. For instance, I didn't realize that Caroline Bingley was the one who said, "I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading!" (When she very clearly has little enjoyment in it.) And instead of Elizabeth saying this line (like in the 2005 movie), it's Mr. Bennet who asks Mr. Collins, "May I ask whether these pleasing attentions proceed from the impulse of the moment, or are the result of previous study?" Interesting!

Discussion Questions

Feel free to answer one, two, or all three of these questions in the comments section or in your own blog post!

1. Which quote or scene made you laugh/smile the most?

2. Mr. Darcy is often silent: in social settings, in his feelings toward Elizabeth, and in defense of his side of Wickham's story. Do you think his silence is "golden" (a wise choice), or do you think he should have been more vocal in these chapters?

3. How would you respond to Mr. Collins if he proposed to you?

Join us next Tuesday for our third discussion! 

(Vol. I: Ch. 21 - Vol. 2: Ch. 11)

Pride & Prejudice Read-Along | Week 1

Welcome to Week 1 of the Pride & Prejudice read-along! You can learn more about the read-along schedule in this invitation post. (We're reading 2 chapters a day.)

Today we're going to discuss chapters 1-6 (Volume I). If you came prepared, go ahead and share your thoughts in the comments section or in your own post! (Feel free to use the image above, linking back to the Pride & Prejudice read-along tag.) If you still have to catch up on some reading, you're welcome to check in later this week or whenever you're ready. :)

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

~ ~ ~

Pride & Prejudice Volume I: Chapters 1-6

Discussion Format: One favorite quote, some general impressions, and three questions for each week's reading.

Favorite Quote

"There are very few of us who have heart enough to be really in love without encouragement." ~ Charlotte Lucas

General Impressions

Characters truly have their own distinct persona between movies and books, don't they? In these first few chapters, I've really enjoyed getting to discover different sides and depths of the familiar characters in Pride & Prejudice.

So far, Elizabeth hasn't stood out to me all that much. She seems rather likable, if not entirely remarkable (at least, as little as she's been described so far!). I like that she holds her own, and I especially like seeing the bond between her and Jane. It's really sweet how much she cares about Jane's happiness, and how defensive she is of Jane's introverted ways.

Jane really shines at this point. I love the way Lizzy describes Jane's attitude: "To take the good of everybody's character and make it still better, and say nothing of the bad—belongs to you alone." I appreciate Jane's kindness in how she views and judges (or, refrains from judging) others. Between her gentle ways and her loveliness, Mr. Bingley was bound to fall in love. :)

Speaking of Mr. Bingley...he's definitely made himself much more appealing in these first few chapters than Mr. Darcy has. But I suppose that's the point: the "first impressions" (First Impressions being the original title of the book) are quite unfavorable for him, but they don't tell the whole story. As Mr. Bennet says (in jest to his wife, but with underlying truth in it):

A fortnight's acquaintance is certainly very little. One cannot know what a man really is by the end of a fortnight.

I'm not quite sure what to make of my first impressions of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. Mr. Bennet is rather funny and charming, although it's hard to tell (so far) whether or not he truly has affection for his wife. I prefer to take this line...

The astonishment of the ladies was just what he wished; that of Mrs. Bennet perhaps surpassing the rest.

...to mean that he really cares about making Mrs. Bennet happy, even if he likes to have a little fun at her expense in the process. ;)

Then there is Charlotte Lucas. She seems very jaded, but also wise to the ways of her world and what survival looks like within it. I think what she says about love needing encouragement is a good point even today. We all long for a sign that the person we love shares our feelings. Sometimes, when we have a crush, we can make up those signs. (I think I did a fair amount of this in years past!) But we still look for clues and long to know we're not alone in what we feel. It gives us the courage to reach out.

Discussion Questions

Feel free to answer one, two, or all three of these questions in the comments section or in your own blog post!

1. Which character do you most relate to at this point in the story? Whose worldview/personality most resembles yours?

2. Ponder Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth's first impressions of each other. Might the story have been very different if they had each responded differently at (and after) that first ball?

3. What do you think of the portrayals of marriage/courtship so far? Charlotte claims, "It is better to know as little as possible of the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life." Do you agree or disagree?

Join us next Tuesday for our second discussion! 

(Vol. I: Ch. 7-20)

Fall in Love with Mr. Darcy | Join the Pride and Prejudice Read-Along!

Confession: I've never read Pride & Prejudice.

I know! It's terrible. I think it's about time I fix that, don't you?

And if you've also never read the book, or are simply looking for an excuse to re-read it, I invite you to join me for the Pride & Prejudice Read-Along during the month of October!

Here's what you can expect...

• Reading two chapters per day (except for the last day, when we'll only read one chapter)

• Discussing the book every Tuesday, for a total of five discussions (on the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st)

• Having lots of fun chatting with other Jane Austen fans 

• Quite possibly falling in love with a fictional character ;)

Want to join? Feel free to take the button above to share on your blog or social media sites! You can also continue the conversation on Twitter using #InspiredByAusten. 

(For those who participated in the Persuasion read-along, I hope you don't mind I'm recycling that hashtag! Keeps things simple. :))

I can't wait to start another read-along with you! 

P.S. Explore past Jane Austen read-alongs at these links: Persuasion and Prayers Read-Along; Northanger Abbey Read-Along; Emma Read-Along