Who wrote Pride and Prejudice?
Jane Austen wrote Pride and Prejudice, published in 1813. The novel follows the witty Elizabeth Bennet and her changing feelings for the proud, wealthy Mr. Darcy.
Austen was born in 1775 in Steventon, Hampshire, England. She began writing the novel, first called First Impressions, in 1796 and revised it before publication. Like her other books, it was published anonymously, credited only to the author of Sense and Sensibility. Austen earned little fame during her lifetime.
The story is set among the English gentry and explores marriage, social class, money and reputation. Elizabeth's first impression of Darcy as arrogant, and his prejudice about her family, slowly give way to understanding. Its famous opening line begins: It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.
Lasting popularity
Pride and Prejudice has sold more than 20 million copies and is one of the most loved novels in English. Famous adaptations include the 1995 BBC series with Colin Firth and the 2005 film starring Keira Knightley. Austen died in 1817 at age 41.
Did You Know?
Austen's other novels include Sense and Sensibility, Emma, Mansfield Park, Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. Her portrait appears on the Bank of England's £10 note.