RomanceEverAfter

Quotes & Poetry

Pride & Prejudice:  Definitions

To enhance your understanding of both the story and the time period in which Pride & Prejudice is set, below is a listing of various phrase and word definitions.

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Referred in Chapters 1-5

"...it will be impossible for her to introduce him, for she will not know him herself."

The above statement is made by Mrs. Bennet (chapter 2, page 8) during a conversation with her daughters and Mr. Bennet.  One of Society's firm rules stated that a woman could not visit an unmarried man without securing a formal introduction.

The reason for Mrs. Bennet's concern is that she is afraid her daughters will not have the opportunity to meet Mr. Bingley, the new unwed wealthy gentleman residing at Netherfield Park.

Fortnight

The word used to refer to a time period of two weeks.  The term is primarily British.

Trade

The term "trade" was used when referring to an individual's occupation.

In upper Society, a gentleman did not partake in trade.  Indeed, his wealth deemed it unnecessary.  In P&P, Austen provides the reader a glimpse into upper Society's perspective on individuals that had to earn their living. The conversation between Caroline Bingley and Mrs. Louisa Hurst displays this attitude.

Mrs. Hurst refers to the low connections of Jane Bennet's parents.  In addition, they "laughed heartily" when mentioning that "their uncle is an attorney in Meryton" and "another, who lives somewhere near Cheapside."  (P&P, page 32).