Ever since my high school days, when asked why I dated absolute jerks, my response goes a little something like, "I have a Darcy-complex." What the heck is that you may ask? It means that since the time I was thirteen years old and read Jane Austin's "Pride and Prejudice," I have been in love with Mr. Darcy. I date arrogant, cynical boys thinking deep down they must possess the power to turn into witty, romantic men--I'm always wrong.
That being said, there are few novels so exquisitely written, as to possess the power to be both tragic and comedic in their story-telling like that of "Pride and Prejudice." I very rarely find myself re-reading a book, but my copy of this timeless novel is worn from years of turning pages in both excitement and anguish; incidentally, with each read a new lesson is learned. Here are some of my favorite:
1. First Impressions Don't Make The Man (or Woman)
One can never forget the first time Elizabeth and Darcy met while attending an assembly at Meryton. Elizabeth overhears Mr. Darcy referring to her as only "tolerable." I hated him, to say the least. How can a man be so absolutely consumed in his own pride? More importantly, how can he be so rude towards a woman so congenial as Elizabeth Bennet? It wasn't until later in the story where the woes of Mr. Darcy's past and the love he holds for his younger sister are revealed, that I started liking the man behind the mask. First impressions often leave us in want of something more--whether that impression is good or bad. The more I learned about Mr. Darcy's true character, the more I realized how quick we are to judge others on the first encounter.
2. Sharp Wit And A Pair Of Fine Eyes Are Worth Far More Than An Expensive Dress.
Who couldn't love Elizabeth Bennet? She is everything I have ever wanted to be--intelligent, congenial, witty, beautiful. Beauty fades, but the impression we leave on people lasts forever. Darcy could have had his fair share of women, all well-bred and rich, but what they couldn't give him is a challenge. Elizabeth proves there is much more to a woman than what she puts on in the morning.
3. "Obstinate, headstong girl!" Might Be The Best Compliment You'll Ever Receive
Lady Catherine bullies Elizabeth while trying to squash rumors that her dear nephew is engaged to the second eldest Miss Bennet. Elizabeth schools Lady Catherine with ease and charm, "If Mr. Darcy is neither by honor or inclination confined to his cousin, why is not he to make another choice? And if I am that choice, why may not I accept him?" You go, girl. Elizabeth Bennet is a woman who knows how to stick to her guns and I may or may not take immense pride when told I am stubborn.
4. When It Comes To A Man's Library, Size Matters
"What a delightful library you have at Pemberley, Mr. Darcy!" "It ought to be good," he replied, "It has been the work of many generations." *swoons* I have to respect a man who loves a good book. LIterature speaks to our past and will carry lessons that apply to generations long after we are gone. If a man can understand the importance of literature, it speaks largely of his character.
5. A Grand Love Story Is Timeless
"They walked on, without knowing in what direction. There was too much to be thought, and felt, and said, for attention to any other objects." Ah. This quote brings a new definition to being so in love that nothing else in the world matters. "Pride and Prejudice" taught me that love should be challenging not in a, "You're too difficult to be with" way, but a "You make me want to be a better person" way. This novel taught me that love not only transcends the test of time, but also the snarkiest of comments.
"Pride and Prejudice" you have bewitched me, body and soul.
