Faculty of Human Sciences

‫اإلنسانيةالعلوم كلية‬

English Language and Literature :‫القسم‬

Discourse Observation and Analysis :‫التقييم‬ ‫نوع‬

Semantics and Discourse Analysis :‫المقرر‬ ‫اسم‬

20951 :‫رقم المقرر‬

Nancy Ghazal :‫اسم الطالب‬

ID: 202104010

Dr. Loubna Nehmeh :‫المقرر‬ ‫ أستاذ‬/ ‫اسم المشرف‬

2023/2024 :‫العام األكاديمي‬

Discourse Analysis: “It is a Truth Universally Acknowledged” From Pride and Prejudice

Abstract: In the iconic opening line from Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen declares, "It is a

truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in

want of a wife." Within this seemingly straightforward statement lies a rich tapestry of

themes: love, societal expectations, and the consequences of first impressions. The line

introduces characters like Mrs. Bennet, Mr. Bingley, and Elizabeth Bennet, whose

interactions shape the novel. Through wit, irony, and social commentary, Austen invites

readers to explore the complexities of Regency-era England and the timeless pursuit of

genuine connections.

Table of Contents:

- Introduction

- Purpose of the Discourse

- Kind of People in the Data

- Settings of the Discourse

- What does the discourse say about society in general?

- Meaning and Impact of the Discourse

- Other Questions and Answers related to this Discourse.

- Conclusion

The Dialogue:

MR. BINGLEY (young man getting out of a coach): “It is a truth universally

acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.”

The girls are somewhat taken aback.

LYDIA (excitedly): “Have you heard? Mr. Bingley, a young man from the North of England,

has come down on Monday in a chaise and four.”

KITTY: “With five thousand a year!”

JANE (the eldest): “Goodness! And he’s single, to be sure!”

Meanwhile, Mr. Bennet tries to ignore Mrs. Bennet’s excitement.

MRS. BENNET: “What a fine thing for our girls!”

MR. BENNET: “How can it affect them?”

As the family discusses Mr. Bingley, Elizabeth Bennet, 20, good-humored and attractive,

walks through a field of tall meadow grass, reading a novel entitled ‘First Impressions.’ She

approaches Longbourn, a fairly run-down 17th-century house with a small moat around it.

ELIZABETH (crossing the moat): “It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single

woman in possession of a good novel must be in want of a quiet spot to read.”

Introduction:

Jane Austen's iconic opening line from Pride and Prejudice, "It is a truth universally

acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife,"

holds layers of meaning beyond a simple observation about the desires of wealthy men. At its

core, this quote suggests that men with wealth and status are inevitably drawn towards finding

a partner. In the context of the 19th-century English society depicted in the novel, marriage

was not solely a matter of romantic inclination but rather a social and economic transaction.

Men of means were expected to secure a suitable wife, someone who would not only provide

companionship but also enhance their societal standing and ensure the continuation of their

lineage. However, by introducing an unexpected philosophical concept, we can delve into the

layers of Austen's quote and unravel its deeper implications. Let's explore the idea of

existentialism, a school of thought that examines the individual's existence and freedom of

choice in a seemingly indifferent world. The notion that a single man with good fortune must

be in want of a wife can be seen as a reflection of societal expectations and the limitations

placed upon individuals seeking fulfillment in their lives. Existentialists argue that true

fulfillment comes from embracing personal freedom and authenticity, unburdened by societal

norms and expectations. They would question whether the assumption made in Austen's

quote is a universal truth or a byproduct of societal conditioning. Isn't it possible that a single

man in possession of wealth might be content without a wife, dedicating his time and

resources to pursuits that bring him meaning and purpose? Moreover, this underlying

philosophical concept challenges the notion that marriage guarantees happiness and

fulfillment. In Pride and Prejudice, Austen explores the intricacies of relationships, depicting

couples who marry for reasons other than love and highlighting the consequences of such

unions. By juxtaposing societal expectations with the pursuit of personal fulfillment, Austen
implicitly criticizes the idea that marriage should be prioritized above individual desires and

aspirations. Austen's quote, therefore, not only captures the mindset of her characters but also

invites readers to question the validity and impact of societal expectations on human

relationships.

Purpose of the Discourse:

1. Setting the Tone:

o The opening line, “It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in

possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife,” immediately sets the

tone for the entire story.

o It introduces the central theme of marriage, social expectations, and

relationships.

2. Social Commentary:

o Jane Austen uses this discourse to comment on the societal norms and

expectations of her time.

o The idea that a wealthy single man is automatically considered a desirable

match reflects the prevailing views on marriage and status.

3. Character Introduction:

o Mr. Bingley’s arrival and the ensuing discussion reveal important details about

characters:

 Mr. Bingley: Wealthy, eligible, and new to the neighborhood.

 The Bennet Family: Excited about the prospect of a wealthy suitor.

 Elizabeth Bennet: Independent, witty, and not easily swayed by

societal conventions.

4. Foreshadowing:

o The discourse hints at the romantic entanglements that will follow.

 o It foreshadows the courtship between Mr. Bingley and one of the Bennet

sisters.

5. Irony and Humor:

o The juxtaposition of the serious opening line with Lydia’s excitement and Mr.

Bennet’s skepticism adds humor.

o Elizabeth’s witty observation about novels further enhances the irony.

6. Universal Truths:

o The discourse playfully suggests that certain truths are universally

acknowledged.

o It invites readers to consider their own assumptions and biases.

Kind of People in the Data:

1. Elizabeth Bennet (Lizzy):

o Our spirited heroine, Elizabeth, possesses wit, intelligence, and a penchant for

independent thinking.

o She navigates societal norms, challenges first impressions, and seeks genuine

connections.

o Her journey unfolds through sharp dialogue and introspection.

2. Mr. Bingley:

o A wealthy young man with a funny disposition.

o His arrival at Netherfield sets the plot in motion.

o Mr. Bingley’s affections become entangled with one of the Bennet sisters.

3. Mrs. Bennet:

o The excitable matriarch of the Bennet family.

o Her primary mission: to marry off her daughters to eligible suitors.

 o Mrs. Bennet’s enthusiasm contrasts with Mr. Bennet’s dry humor.

4. Mr. Bennet:

o The witty and somewhat aloof father.

o His sardonic remarks provide comic relief.

o Mr. Bennet observes the unfolding drama with detached amusement.

5. Lydia and Kitty Bennet:

o The younger Bennet sisters.

o Excited by Mr. Bingley’s arrival, they dream of romance and wealth.

o Their exuberance contrasts with Jane and Elizabeth’s more measured

approach.

6. Jane Bennet:

o The eldest Bennet sister, known for her beauty and kindness.

o Jane’s gentle nature attracts Mr. Bingley.

o Her relationship with him forms a central thread in the story.

Settings of the Discourse:

The delightful discourse from Pride and Prejudice unfolds in the early 19th century, within the

picturesque English countryside. Specifically, it transpires at Netherfield, a grand mansion

in Hertfordshire. The rolling parkland, the Bennet family, and the arrival of the wealthy Mr. Bingley

set the stage for wit, romance, and societal expectations.

What does the discourse say about society in general?

1. Love and Social Forces:

o Social Interference: Anxieties about social connections, class, and reputation

interfere with love.

 o Austen’s View: True love transcends societal norms and hierarchical forces.

2. Reputation and Expectations:

o Importance of Reputation: In Austen’s world, a woman’s reputation is

paramount.

o Social Norms: Women are expected to conform to certain behaviors.

o Vulnerability: Stepping outside these norms' risks ostracism.

3. Class Divisions and Merit:

o Regency England: Austen critiques assumptions and prejudices of upper-class

society.

o Internal vs. External Merit: She distinguishes between goodness of character

(internal merit) and rank/possessions (external merit).

4. Individual vs. Society:

o Struggle: The novel explores the reconciliation of the individual with societal

norms.

Meaning and Impact of the Discourse:

1. Social Commentary and Gender Roles:

 Societal Expectations: Austen’s quote encapsulates the prevailing norms of her time.

Marriage was not merely a personal choice but a societal duty.

 Gender Bias: The line focuses on men—specifically, single men with wealth. It

reinforces the idea that their primary pursuit should be marriage.

 Implicit Critique: By presenting this as a “truth universally acknowledged,” Austen

subtly critiques the rigidity of these expectations.

2. Irony and Subversion:

  Irony: The line’s irony lies in its universality. It’s both true and absurd.

 Subversion: Austen uses irony to subvert the expected narrative. Instead of celebrating

love, she highlights societal pressures.

3. Characterization:

 Mrs. Bennet: Her excitement over Mr. Bingley’s arrival exemplifies the societal

frenzy around wealthy suitors.

 Elizabeth Bennet: Her wit and skepticism challenge the norm. She seeks genuine

connections beyond material considerations.

Other Questions and Answers related to this Discourse:

1. How did the choice of wording and intonation color the meaning of what was said?

1. Formality and Universality:

o Wording: The use of “universally acknowledged” lends an air of authority and

universality to the statement.

o Impact: Readers perceive this as a societal truth, applicable to all contexts and

times.

2. Irony and Subtle Critique:

o Wording: The straightforward tone contrasts with the ironic intent.

o Impact: Austen subtly critiques societal norms by presenting them as self-

evident truths.

3. Gender and Wealth Focus:

o Wording: The emphasis on “a single man in possession of a good fortune”

highlights wealth and gender.

o Impact: It reinforces the societal expectation that wealthy men seek wives.
 4. Expectations and Agency:

o Wording: The phrase “must be in want of a wife” implies inevitability.

o Impact: It underscores societal pressure, limiting individual agency in matters

of love.

2. Did you suspect that any person had bad intentions? What gave you that impression?

There were no bad intentions suspected by any of the people in the discourse.

3. Could you imagine good intentions underlying the same way of speaking?

The characters in this discourse may have intended to emphasize the stability and harmony

that marriage brings to society.

4. Did you feel any discomfort watching this interaction? What was the source of this

discomfort?

According to the time I’m living in, choosing a husband for a girl because it is necessary for

the girl to get married especially to a rich man, is a discomfort to me. In this discourse, Mrs.

Bennet is the one choosing a husband for her daughter without asking if her daughter likes or

wants to get married to that man she chose.

5. In what ways did people in the conversation respond to each other similarly and

differently? (For example, did they just listen, try to draw similarities to their own

experiences, or offer solutions)?

1. Mrs. Bennet:

o Excitement: Mrs. Bennet eagerly shares news of Mr. Bingley’s arrival.

 o Focus on Marriage: She immediately connects it to marriage prospects for her

daughters.

o Similarity: She listens to the news and interprets it through the lens of

matchmaking.

2. Elizabeth Bennet:

o Wit and Skepticism: Elizabeth responds with wit and skepticism.

o Observation: Her playful observation about novels reveals her independent

thinking.

o Similarity: She draws parallels between societal norms and her own

experiences.

3. Mr. Bennet:

o Detachment: Mr. Bennet remains detached from the excitement.

o Sarcasm: His dry humor surfaces as he questions the impact on their lives.

o Similarity: He listens but offers a sardonic perspective rather than immediate

solutions.

6. Were there any other influences, such as relative rank or how well people involved

knew each other?

1. Relative Rank:

o Social Hierarchy: In Austen’s society, relative rank significantly impacted

interactions.

o Mr. Bingley’s Status: His wealth and social standing elevate his importance.

o Mrs. Bennet’s Excitement: Her eagerness reflects the perceived opportunity

for her daughters.

2. Familiarity:
 o Mr. Bingley and the Bennet Family: Their initial lack of familiarity affects

their perceptions.

o Elizabeth’s Wit: Her familiarity with societal norms allows her to respond with

wit and skepticism.

o Mr. Bennet’s Detachment: His long familiarity with Mrs. Bennet tempers his

enthusiasm.

7. Can you think of anything that was said in the spirit of status (one upping)?

1. Mrs. Bennet’s Desperation:

o Status Concern: Mrs. Bennet’s relentless pursuit of wealthy suitors for her

daughters reflects her desire to elevate their social status.

2. Social Calculations:

o Status Obsession: The opening line implies that a wealthy man’s primary need

is a wife.

8. How did body language play a role? What did it suggest for each player in the

conversation?

1. Mrs. Bennet:

o Excitement and Restlessness: Her body language likely reflects her eagerness.

She might fidget, lean forward, or gesture animatedly.

o Suggests: Her desperation to secure advantageous matches for her daughters.

2. Elizabeth Bennet:

o Raised Eyebrows and Smirks: Elizabeth’s wit often manifests through subtle

facial expressions. She might raise an eyebrow or smirk.

o Suggests: Her skepticism and amusement at societal norms.

 3. Mr. Bingley:

o Open Posture and Warm Smile: As a friendly and approachable character, Mr.

Bingley likely maintains an open stance and smiles warmly.

o Suggests: His genuine interest in social interactions.

4. Mr. Bennet:

o Slouched Posture and Raised Eyebrows: Mr. Bennet’s dry humor often

accompanies a relaxed posture and quizzical expressions.

o Suggests: His detachment and amusement at Mrs. Bennet’s excitement.

9. Were people sitting or standing? Did these positions fit into a pattern?

1. Mrs. Bennet:

o Likely Standing: Mrs. Bennet’s excitement and eagerness might lead her to

stand or move restlessly.

2. Elizabeth Bennet:

o Possibly Seated: Elizabeth’s wit often shines through her verbal responses

rather than physical gestures.

3. Mr. Bingley:

o Open Posture: As a friendly and approachable character, Mr. Bingley likely

maintains an open stance.

4. Mr. Bennet:

o Relaxed Posture: Mr. Bennet’s dry humor often accompanies a slouched

posture.

Conclusion:
 In this delightful discourse, we are transported to the grandeur of Netherfield—a mansion

awakening to life in Hertfordshire. The arrival of Mr. Bingley, a wealthy young man, sets the

neighborhood abuzz. The Bennet family, particularly the five Bennet daughters, eagerly

discuss this news, their hopes ignited by Mr. Bingley's substantial fortune and single status.

Amidst the excitement, we meet Elizabeth Bennet, a woman of wit and charm. As she walks

through the tall meadow grass, carrying her novel titled ‘First Impressions,’ she playfully

twists the famous opening line of Pride and Prejudice. Her words—"It is a truth universally

acknowledged that a single woman in possession of a good novel must be in want of a quiet

spot to read"—set the tone for the novel's exploration of societal norms, love, and first

impressions.

Jane Austen's timeless themes come alive in this discourse: the pursuit of love, the role of

wealth, and the complexities of social expectations. As we follow Elizabeth's journey, we

anticipate the unfolding drama of courtship, misunderstandings, and personal growth. The

discourse invites us to ponder the intricacies of human nature and the pursuit of happiness.

In conclusion, Pride and Prejudice continues to captivate readers across generations, its wit,

romance, and societal commentary resonating as strongly today as when Austen penned these

words.