5 Minutes For Books is hosting the Classics Bookclub on the first Tuesday of each month. The book chosen was Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Lisa is our host and she has given us a few "discussion" questions:
Did anything strike you differently this time? Anything you hadn’t noticed in earlier readings?
What struck me this time around was how sarcastic Mr. Bennet was with his one liners. My focus usually is on the daughters or being annoyed at Mrs Bennet in previous reads.
``You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They are my old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these twenty years at least.'' Mr. Bennett to Mrs. Bennett
``Well, my dear,'' said Mr. Bennet, ``if your daughter should have a dangerous fit of illness, if she should die, it would be a comfort to know that it was all in pursuit of Mr. Bingley, and under your orders."
The novel’s original title was First Impressions. Did you have any first impressions of the novel that were refuted? Any that were supported?
My "first impressions" were negative because I was being forced to read this really old book in high school. I thought it was boring and hard to follow. I don't think I ever finished it. I did not like (with any of the books we "had" to read) having to figure out themes, symbols, motifs and analyze characters. I just wanted to read for enjoyment (still do). But with subsequent readings, I came to love the characters and the story.
When I choose to re-read the book, I often go the Library and grab one of their copies to see what parts are favorites of other readers. Every book I have checked out is marked up somehow! This last time there were many parts marked "stupid" and I felt sad that this person may not have liked the book.
Next month's books is Jane Eyre.
6 comments:
I love Mr. Bennet's lines as well. I especially like, as Jennifer (Snapshot) noted in her post, the line where he tells Lizzy she will have to disappoint one of her parents with her decision of whether or not to marry Mr. Collins.
I am thankful I didn't read this until adulthood. I would have had the same attitude about it in high school that you had. I am glad I read it when I was better able to appreciate it! I can tell you have grown to appreciate it as well.
Mr. Bennet's sarcasm is hands down one of my favorite things about P&P!
Thanks for joining us!
Mr. Bennet was a riot. Actually I read this book in high school for pleasure. Actually, it was a book report, but I chose the read myself rather than having it assigned. I completely loved it.
I completely agree with Lauren, Lisa, and you! Mr. Bennet's sarcasm is hilarious.
Of course, I think there is a darker side to his sense of humor too. It seems sometimes that he makes fun of his family but doesn't try to help the silly ladies find some sense.
Do you think he is at all to blame for Lydia's bad decision?
After reading the last comment....I would say Mr. Bennet's lack of involvement with his daughter's character is partly to blame for Lydia's behavior. He spends all his time being cleverly witty and above the understanding of his wife! But that is the humor to Jane Austen...and I love it too!
I too loved Mr. Bennet's sarcastic lines. I am glad that I did not read this book until now. I probably would not have appreciated this book in highschool - especially as a assignment.
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