A Book Everyone Should Read

Long before there was Edward and Bella, there was Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett. Long after Edward and Bella fade from popularity, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett will still be there. Classics stand the test of time, and Darcy and Elizabeth are a couple for the ages. Every generation of readers is fortunate to have the ability to discover the genius that is Jane Austen. Some never make it past the latest movie incarnation of Pride and Prejudice, but for those who delve further into the world of Austen, a world of discovery awaits them.

Jane Austen wrote Pride and Prejudice in 1813. Elizabeth Bennett, the heroine, is the second of five daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Bennett. When Elizabeth meets Mr. Darcy, she finds him to be arrogant and much too proud. Darcy doesn't think too much of Elizabeth either. As time goes on, Elizabeth becomes prejudiced against Darcy after listening to Mr. Wickham's tales of mistreatment. Darcy changes his opinion and falls in love with Elizabeth long before she can even begin to stand him. By the end of the book they have both changed and they end up together.

Not only does Pride and Prejudice have a timeless story, which is constantly being adapted in books and movies, but it has an interesting array of characters. From the conniving Mr. Wickham, to the ever annoying Mr. Collins, the range of characters spans good, bad, annoying, and even maddening.

Many authors have tried to continue the story of Darcy and Elizabeth, or even some of the other characters. Books have been written about women who have an obsession with Mr. Darcy. The BBC produced a movie called "Lost In Austen" where the main character inadvertently switches places with Elizabeth Bennett, cause untold chaos in the Pride and Prejudice world.

While the movie adaptations are enjoyable, for the true Austen experience one really needs to read the book. And no one will know if you are picturing Colin Firth every time Darcy's name comes up.