( The picture above is of an actress as Jane Austen from the movie "Becoming Jane" which creates a story from her life)In AP Literature, we have mostly focused on novels that are, well, depressing. The Road, Hamlet, The Great Gatsby, and Coming Through Slaughter, all encorporated death into their corrupted society. Now, after much anticipation, we get to read a chick book! Yes!
Having already read Pride and Prejudice - just about a gazillion times - I opened the pages with a satisfaction of knowing what was to come. I was reaquainted with the characters, and welcomed them back into my thoughts as old friends.
Mrs. Bennet, who opens the book as the first character to speak, reminded me of just how annoying and dimwitted she actually was. Mr. Bennet, who is practically the complete opposite of Mrs. Bennet, made me laugh at his quick comments and sarcastic remarks. How these two possibly fell in love with eachother, I have no idea. Jane Austen created two opposite characters which contrast so effectively, that we are presented with a comedic duo who have an interesting way of getting on with eachother.
The first ball also introduces some other pretty important characters. Mr. Bingley, easily one of my favorites, is an easy going and open person, who all the mother's wish their daughters to be married to. It is the good luck, more like good looks and flattering character of Jane Bennet, who gives Mrs. Bennet the satisfaction of seeing one of her daughters favored by the wealthy and pleasing young man. However, another single man at the ball does not fall under the good graces of Mrs. Bennet. Mr. Darcy, with his scowl and stuck up nature, turns the world against himself as he puts himself above the rest. Jane Austen once again puts two very different characters together as companions. She very well might be interpreting the statement that opposites attract into many aspects of her book!
I look forward to the next two weeks of reading. A flowery and funny novel, it is so nice to finally read something in class which I can really look forward to.
I love the tone and voice of your entry Rachel! I found myself smiling while reading it. I am very excited to read a chick book too and i had not noticed that it is the first time since the beginning of the year that we will read a female's book. I feel more interested in the book now that I’ve read your entry, the characters can easily make a bond with you and i have already feelings for some and disgusts for others. I hope I get to enjoy the book as much and you portray it :)
ReplyDeleteIt is indeed worth noting that Austen makes repetitive juxtapositions with the characters by begging a comparison between those who most often show the greatest difference in both personality and attitude. The characters that seem to attracts the most are also those who repel each other as well (Darcy and Elizabeth).
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