Famous Quotes from Pride and Prejudice: A Deep Dive with Page Numbers (Note: Page numbers will vary depending on the edition of the book. These are approximations based on common editions and are intended as guides.)
Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is renowned for its witty dialogue and insightful observations on society and human nature. Many of its quotes have become ingrained in popular culture. Pinpointing exact page numbers is difficult due to variations in editions, but this guide offers approximate locations and context for some of the most beloved lines.
Note: Locating specific pages requires consulting your edition. The page numbers provided are estimates based on widely available editions.
1. "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." (Chapter 1)
This opening line immediately establishes the novel's central theme: the societal pressures surrounding marriage and wealth. The irony lies in the universality of the "truth" and how it drives the actions of the characters throughout the story. This is typically found within the first few pages of most editions.
2. "My dear Mr. Bennet," said his wife, "how can you abuse your own children in such a way? You take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion for my poor nerves." (Chapter 1)
This quote highlights the contrasting personalities of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, setting the stage for their comedic and often frustrating relationship. This appears shortly after the opening line, in the early pages of Chapter 1.
3. "She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me." (Chapter 3)
Mr. Darcy's initial assessment of Elizabeth Bennet is famously blunt and sets the stage for their complicated relationship. This quote is usually found early in Chapter 3, during the ball at Netherfield.
4. "There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil. A propensity to mischief, makes some one a tyrant." (Chapter 13)
This showcases Austen's insightful commentary on human nature. This appears towards the middle of Chapter 13, demonstrating a character's reflection on personality traits.
5. "I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine." (Chapter 28)
This quote is pivotal in Elizabeth's realization of her own prejudice against Darcy. It signifies a turning point in their relationship, found roughly in the middle to later portion of the novel.
6. "Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we wish others to think of us." (Chapter 12)
This reveals the nuance of Darcy's character and the difference between pride and vanity, demonstrating Austen’s careful character development. This quote is typically situated around the middle portion of Chapter 12.
7. "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." (Chapter 58)
Darcy's declaration of love to Elizabeth, a pivotal moment in the novel and a hallmark of romantic literature. This is found near the end of the novel, typically within the last few chapters.
8. “If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more.” (Chapter 58)
This follows Darcy's declaration, showcasing the difficulty in expressing deep emotion. This appears very close to the quote above, in a similar location within Chapter 58.
9. "I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading!" (Chapter 56)
A humorous reflection on literature, typically placed in the later portion of the novel in Chapter 56, reflecting Elizabeth's character traits.
Finding Page Numbers in Your Edition:
The best way to find the precise page numbers for these quotes is to use the search function (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) in your e-reader or a digital version of Pride and Prejudice. Remember that page numbers vary significantly between different editions.
This information should provide a good starting point for locating these memorable and important quotes in your own edition of Pride and Prejudice. Remember to always cite the specific edition you're referencing if you intend to use these quotes in academic work or other formal settings.
