What is the Significance of the Title ‘Pride and Prejudice’?

I am curious as to why Jane Austen named her novel 'Pride and Prejudice'. Can anyone explain the significance behind this title?

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The significance of the title "Pride and Prejudice" goes beyond the surface level interpretation of the two words. Jane Austen, the author, effectively captures the core emotions and prejudgments that human beings are prone to, using her main characters as embodiments of these emotions. First and foremost, the title foreshadows the character traits of the novel’s protagonists - Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Mr Darcy initially comes across as incredibly prideful due to his high social status and wealth. He looks down upon those from lower statuses, which is evident when he rejects the notion of dancing with Elizabeth at their first meeting. This incident serves to shape Elizabeth's prejudice against Darcy. Likewise, Elizabeth's quick judgments and strong prejudice against Darcy reflects the 'Prejudice' in the title. Secondly, the title is significant because it encapsulates the societal norms and rigid class structures of Austen's time, where pride in one's status and prejudice against those of a lower class were rampant. Lastly, the title reflects a broader theme that is intertwined throughout the novel - the idea of overcoming these two negative traits, 'Pride' and 'Prejudice', to truly understand and accept each other. In conclusion, Jane Austen's choice of title is deeply layered, reflecting both the emotional journeys of the main characters as well as the societal issues of her time. It's a masterful way to encapsulate the thematic essence of the novel.
Answered on September 7, 2023.
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