Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a classic novel exploring themes of love, class, family, and personal growth. Set in early 19th-century England, the story centers on the complex relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. Elizabeth initially views Darcy as arrogant and proud, while Darcy sees Elizabeth as beneath him socially. Over time, they both learn to see past their first impressions.
“I have faults enough, but they are not, I hope, of understanding. My temper I dare not vouch for. It is, I believe, too little yielding— certainly too little for the convenience of the world. I cannot forget the follies and vices of other so soon as I ought, nor their offenses against myself. My feelings are not puffed about with every attempt to move them. My temper would perhaps be called resentful. My good opinion once lost, is lost forever.” (pg. 52)
In this quotation, Darcy admits he has flaws, but he believes his judgment and intelligence are sound. This suggests a self-awareness but also a sense of pride in his insight and intellect. He acknowledges that he is stubborn and inflexible, perhaps unwilling to conform to societal expectations or to compromise easily. This inflexibility can be seen as both a flaw and a mark of personal integrity. I picked this quotation because I think it is realistic since not everyone is perfect.