Discussion Questions for Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice is one of the most well-known works by Jane Austen. A classic piece of literature, the ever satiric Jane Austen brings us a love story that is both critical of 19th-century English society and reminds us not to take first impressions too seriously. 

Still very popular, Pride and Prejudice is a great story to discuss with friends and classmates. Here is a list of questions that can be used for conversation.

• What is important about the title?
• What conflicts did you notice in Pride and Prejudice? Were they physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional conflicts?
• How does Jane Austen reveal character in Pride and Prejudice?
• What are some themes in the story? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
• What are some symbols in Pride and Prejudice? How do they relate to the plot and characters?
• Is Elizabeth Bennet consistent in her actions? Is she a fully developed character? How so?
• Do you find the characters likable? Are the characters people you would want to meet?
• Does the novel end the way you expected? Why?
• What is the primary purpose of the novel? Do you find the purpose important or meaningful?
• How does the novel relate to feminist literature?
• How essential is the setting to the story? Could the story have taken place anywhere else?
• What is the role of women in the text? How are mothers represented? What about single and/or independent women?
• Would you recommend this novel to a friend?