Can You Quote The First Line Of Novel Pride And Prejudice?

I'm starting a literary classics reread and need that iconic opening to 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen for a project. Can anyone confirm it exactly?
2025-08-06 21:05:42
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8 Answers

Best Answer
KiraBaird
KiraBaird
Novel Fan Librarian
It's 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' I love how that classic opener sets up the social maneuvering of the whole story. It reminds me of the premise in 'While Marrying Mr. Steele,' where the heroine enters a marriage of convenience with a wealthy tycoon, not for love but for a deal, and then they have to navigate all the public expectations and private tensions that come with that arrangement.
2026-08-04 09:10:57
97
Ben
Ben
Ending Guesser Receptionist
I've got this etched in my memory like my favorite anime opening lyrics—'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that A Single Man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' Jane Austen nailed it with that opener. It's like she tossed a glitter bomb of irony right at Regency-era society. The way it sets up the whole novel is genius. You think it's about wealthy men hunting for wives, but twist—it’s really about women navigating a world where marriage is survival. The line’s so iconic, it pops up everywhere from lit memes to wedding hashtags.

What kills me is how modern it feels. Swap 'good fortune' for '6-figure salary' and you’ve got half of today’s rom-coms. Austen was roasting societal expectations before roasting was even a thing. That first sentence isn’t just setup—it’s a whole mood. It’s the kind of line that makes you clutch your pearls while cackling, because you know this story’s gonna drag everyone’s pretensions through the mud.
2025-08-09 06:23:48
19
Una
Una
Responder Sales
The opener of 'Pride and Prejudice' hits like a perfectly timed punchline: 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' Austen’s wit here is sharper than a samurai’s katana. It’s not just introducing the plot—it’s throwing shade at an entire system. The way people still quote this proves some truths really are universal, even 200 years later.
2025-08-11 20:31:02
11
Tessa
Tessa
Careful Explainer UX Designer
The famous opener is 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' Its genius is its compactness. It's a social novel condensed into a single sentence. You get the economics ('good fortune'), the sociology ('universally acknowledged'), the psychology ('want'), and the plot mechanism ('a wife') all at once.

Austen doesn't waste a single word. Every clause is doing multiple jobs, establishing the world and the conflict with breathtaking efficiency. It's the literary equivalent of a perfectly engineered machine—small, elegant, and incredibly powerful.
2026-07-30 19:52:53
19
RubyJay
RubyJay
Plot Explainer UX Designer
The quote is 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' Its brilliance is in its passive-aggressive elegance. Austen isn't shouting her critique; she's murmuring it with a perfectly straight face, letting the absurdity speak for itself.

That tone is everything. It establishes the novel's unique voice—worldly, amused, subtly rebellious. It tells you that you're in the hands of a narrator who sees more than she says, which makes you trust her judgment about the characters you're about to meet. The first line builds authorial credibility in a single, graceful stroke.
2026-07-30 20:34:16
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What are the most iconic quotes from the novel Pride and Prejudice?

3 Answers2025-04-14 14:28:03
One of the most iconic quotes from 'Pride and Prejudice' is, 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.' This opening line sets the tone for the entire novel, highlighting the societal expectations of marriage and wealth. Another memorable quote is Elizabeth Bennet’s declaration, 'I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.' This line captures the tension and misunderstanding between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, showcasing her strong will and independence. For those who enjoy exploring themes of love and societal norms, 'Emma' by Jane Austen offers a similar blend of wit and social commentary.

What are the best quotes from pride and prejudice the novel?

1 Answers2025-04-11 12:36:00
One of the most striking quotes from 'Pride and Prejudice' for me is when Elizabeth Bennet declares, 'I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.' This line captures the essence of her character—her fierce independence and her unwillingness to be belittled, even by someone as influential as Mr. Darcy. It’s a moment that resonates deeply because it’s not just about pride; it’s about self-respect. Elizabeth’s refusal to let Darcy’s arrogance overshadow her own worth is a powerful statement, especially in a society that often undervalued women’s voices. Another quote that stays with me is Darcy’s confession: 'In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.' This line is so raw and unfiltered, it’s almost uncomfortable to read. Darcy’s struggle between his pride and his love for Elizabeth is laid bare here. It’s a turning point in the novel, where his vulnerability finally breaks through his reserved exterior. The way he admits his feelings, despite knowing Elizabeth’s disdain for him, is both heartbreaking and admirable. Then there’s Mr. Bennet’s wry observation: 'For what do we live, but to make sport for our neighbors, and laugh at them in our turn?' This line is quintessential Mr. Bennet—sarcastic, detached, and yet oddly insightful. It’s a reminder of the social satire that runs through the novel, poking fun at the absurdities of societal expectations and the gossip that fuels it. His cynicism is a counterpoint to the more earnest emotions of the other characters, and it adds a layer of humor to the story. Lastly, Elizabeth’s realization, 'Till this moment I never knew myself,' is a profound moment of self-awareness. It’s a quiet but pivotal scene where she acknowledges her own prejudices and misjudgments. This line is so powerful because it’s not just about her feelings for Darcy; it’s about her understanding of her own character. It’s a moment of growth that makes her eventual reconciliation with Darcy feel earned and genuine. If you’re drawn to the wit and social commentary in 'Pride and Prejudice,' I’d recommend 'Emma' by Jane Austen as well. It’s another brilliant exploration of character and society, with a protagonist who undergoes a similar journey of self-discovery. For a more modern take on love and societal expectations, 'Normal People' by Sally Rooney is a great choice. Both books delve into the complexities of relationships and the ways in which we navigate our own flaws and desires.

What are the best quotes from Pride and Prejudice?

5 Answers2025-05-16 09:14:27
Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' is a treasure trove of timeless quotes that resonate with readers across generations. One of my absolute favorites is, 'I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of anything than of a book!' This line, spoken by Caroline Bingley, is both ironic and delightful, especially for book lovers like me. Another iconic quote is Mr. Darcy's confession, 'You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love, I love, I love you.' This moment is so raw and heartfelt, it gives me chills every time. Elizabeth Bennet’s sharp wit shines in her retort, 'I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.' It’s a perfect encapsulation of her character—strong, independent, and unafraid to speak her mind. Lastly, the opening line, 'It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife,' is both humorous and insightful, setting the tone for the entire novel. These quotes not only highlight the characters' personalities but also reflect the societal norms and expectations of the time. They’re a testament to Austen’s genius in weaving humor, romance, and social commentary into her writing. Every time I revisit 'Pride and Prejudice,' I find new layers of meaning in these lines, making them even more special.

What are some memorable quotes from Pride and Prejudice?

4 Answers2025-09-02 17:17:11
'Pride and Prejudice' is filled with those quotes that just linger in my mind! Take for instance Elizabeth Bennet's witty retort, 'I am not influenced by the opinions of others.' It captures her fierce independence beautifully, doesn't it? Her character was all about challenging societal norms while keeping her spirit alive. Or how about Mr. Darcy's confession that 'You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you'? It’s just so romantic and earnest; honestly, it makes my heart flutter every time I read it! Every line feels like a clever dance of words, infused with humor and a touch of irony. It's such a delight to dive into the world of balls and social intricacies, surrounded by this enchanting prose. I've often found myself quoting these lines during heartfelt conversations, especially when discussing love or societal expectations. Either way, it’s a treasure trove of memorable moments that resonates beyond the pages, don’t you think?

When was the manga Pride and Prejudice first released?

2 Answers2025-08-03 05:44:21
I remember diving into the world of 'Pride and Prejudice' manga adaptations and being surprised by how many versions exist. The earliest one I found was released back in 1995, illustrated by a talented artist named Po Tse. It's fascinating how this classic Jane Austen novel got a fresh breath of life through manga, blending Regency-era romance with dynamic Japanese art styles. The 1995 version stays remarkably true to the source material, capturing Elizabeth Bennet's wit and Mr. Darcy's brooding pride while adding those expressive, exaggerated emotions manga does so well. What makes this adaptation stand out is its ability to condense Austen's intricate social commentary into visual storytelling. The artist uses sharp panel transitions to highlight Elizabeth's internal monologues and cleverly frames Darcy's aloofness through dramatic close-ups. I stumbled upon an old forum thread where fans debated whether the manga's pacing sacrificed some character depth, but most agreed it nailed the core tension between pride and prejudice. It's wild to think this adaptation is nearly 30 years old—proof that great stories transcend formats and generations.

Who published the first edition of Pride and Prejudice?

5 Answers2025-05-16 00:38:22
The first edition of 'Pride and Prejudice' was published by Thomas Egerton in 1813. This novel, written by Jane Austen, was initially released in three volumes, which was a common practice for novels at the time. Egerton, a prominent London publisher, recognized the potential of Austen's work and took the risk of publishing it. The novel was well-received, and its success helped establish Austen as a significant literary figure. The first edition is now a prized possession for collectors and Austen enthusiasts, often fetching high prices at auctions due to its historical and literary value. Interestingly, 'Pride and Prejudice' was originally titled 'First Impressions' when Austen first drafted it in the late 1790s. However, it underwent significant revisions before being published under its now-famous title. The novel's enduring popularity is a testament to Austen's keen observations of human nature and her ability to craft compelling characters and narratives. The first edition's publication marked the beginning of a legacy that continues to captivate readers worldwide.

What year was Gutenberg Pride and Prejudice first released?

3 Answers2025-07-11 19:58:12
'Pride and Prejudice' holds a special place in my heart. The Gutenberg version, which is the digital release of the original text, became available in 1991. This was a game-changer for classic literature lovers like me, making it accessible to everyone online. The original novel was published way back in 1813, but the Gutenberg Project brought it into the digital age, allowing a whole new generation to fall in love with Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. It's fascinating how technology keeps these timeless stories alive.
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