Pride and Prejudice: Writer's Techniques

Pride and Prejudice: Writer’s Techniques

Irony

• Austen makes extensive use of irony throughout the novel to critique societal norms and traditions.
• She utilizes dramatic irony to create humour and suspense, noticeably in Mr. Collins’s proposal to Elizabeth.
• Situational irony is also employed by Austen in events that do not go as planned, such as Wickham’s seemingly charming nature which is later revealed as deceitful.

Free Indirect Discourse

• Austen employs free indirect discourse—a narrative style that allows the voice of the character to blend with the voice of the narrator—providing different perspectives and increased depth to characters, particularly Elizabeth and Darcy.
• This technique allows readers to enter the character’s mind and see their thoughts, giving an intimate view into their feelings.

Characterisation

• Austen’s characters are vivid and realistic, often depicted with sharp, biting details which critique the regency societal norms.
• She uses direct characterisation to describe her characters, and indirect characterisation, showing characters’ behaviour, speech or thoughts, to reveal their complex, multi-dimensional natures.
• Note that even minor characters in the novel are never flat or uninteresting.

Symbolism and Imagery

• Austen uses visual imagery and symbolism to enhance her narrative. For example, Pemberley estate symbolises Darcy’s true personality—grand but not overwhelming, in balance with nature, showcasing his values.
• Locations such as Hertfordshire, Rosings, and Pemberley represent different levels of society, underlining the significant role class plays in the novel.

Epistolary Technique

• Austen makes effective use of the epistolary technique, employing letters to advance the plot and reveal character’s feelings and intentions.
• Letters, like the ones sent by Mr. Collins or Jane, are crucial to the narrative and provide insight into character detail and plot progression.

Dialogue and Language

• Austen’s expert use of dialogue brings her characters to life, reveals their personalities, and drives the plot. The conversations held during balls and social gatherings provide insight into different characters’ values and attitudes.
• Her language, though formal, is characterised by its wit and liveliness. It mirrors the time in which the novel is set and, despite its formality, remains engaging.

Remember to always back your analysis with textual evidence. Identifying examples of these techniques in the text will not only make your understanding of the plot and characters more profound, but will also aid in drawing out thematic concerns and Austen’s social commentary.