The Annotated Pride and Prejudice

David Shapard

This first-ever fully annotated edition of one of the most beloved novels in the world is a sheer delight for Jane Austen fans. Here is the complete text of Pride and Prejudice with more than 2300 annotations on facing pages, including:

Explanations of historical context: Rules of etiquette, class differences, the position of women, legal and economic realities, leisure activities, and more.

Citations from Austen’s life, letters, and other writings: Parallels between the novel and Austen’s experience are revealed, along with writings that illuminate her beliefs and opinions.

Definitions and clarifications: Archaic words, words still in use whose meanings have changed, and obscure passages are explained.

Literary comments and analyses: Insightful notes highlight Austen’s artistry and point out the subtle ways she develops her characters and themes.

Maps and illustrations of places and objects mentioned in the novel.

An introduction, a bibliography, and a detailed chronology of events.

Of course, one can enjoy the novel without knowing the precise definition of a gentleman, or what it signifies if a character drives a coach rather than a hack chaise, or the rules governing social interaction at a ball, but readers of The Annotated Pride and Prejudice will find that these kinds of details add immeasurably to understanding and enjoying the intricate psychological interplay of Austen’s immortal characters.