Jane Austen’s Critique of Patriarchal Society in Pride and Prejudice

Abstract

Through an examination of Jane Austen's portrayal of women and contribution to the feminist debate in her selected work Pride And Prejudice, this dissertation seeks to shed light on her radical position toward feminism. Austen's aim for progressive marriages based on equality and love is evident when reading Pride and Prejudice from a feminist perspective. When compared to other women and relationships in Austen's books, Elizabeth Bennet's traits and final marriages stand out as examples of women with agency who want more than what Regency England's society had to offer. By using such analogies, Austen masterfully illustrates her critique of patriarchal society and the restrictions it imposes on women.