Is Pride and Prejudice a romance novel?

pride and prejudice a romance novel? title page

Jane Austen (1775-1817) - Archive: Lilly Library, Indiana University; Original publication: Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. London: T. Egerton, 1813.

Pride and Prejudice is considered amongst the best written books in the world. It came second in a poll for the UK's Best-Loved Book behind only The Lord of the Rings. It's been made into a mini series, more than one movie, and a musical. Not to mention there are dozens of spin off stories, including one in which the heroine is a kick-ass zombie fighter.

The question is though, into what genre does such a well loved book fall? Romance is a genre that is usually spurned by literary critics; many people will not even admit that they read them. And certainly there is far more to Pride and Prejudice than a love story. Austen's witty social commentary is, I believe, what made it possible for the work to become a classic.

Have you read Pride and Prejudice? Would you define it as a romance novel? If not, why not?

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Hi,
I didn't read it but i watched the movie, and YES i think that it's a romance novel.

by Dalida luna

I think that it is a romance novel, although I have yet to read the story. Having seen the film, it would appear to be a romance - but I understand that there are a range of interpretations.

by Matteo Lor

I have to say, I think romance is a huge part of the story, but does that make it only a romance novel? I don't think so.

The social and economic commentary is witty, and ironic. Unlike currently, at the time Austen was writing, marriage for a gentlewoman was akin to their career. They could earn money no other way.

So really, it depends how broad your romance definition is!

by Rachael Koch

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