The Annotated Pride and Prejudice
by Jane Austen, annotated and edited by David M. Shapard
Published by Anchor Books
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Reviewed by Janelle Martin
Jane Austen's story of love and misunderstanding in late 18th century England is perhaps best known for its opening sentence: "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." The Bennett family has five daughters and, since the estate will pass to a cousin on their father's death, the girls must make good marriages if their futures are to be secure. When the wealthy Mr. Bingley moves into the neighborhood, Mrs. Bennett is determined that Jane, her eldest daughter, will win his heart. All seems to be progressing according to plan until Bingley's snobbish friend, Mr. Darcy, whisks him away from Netherfield, leaving Jane devastated and her sister Lizzie sure the cause is Darcy. When Darcy then proposes to Lizzie, she is astonished and roundly denounces him for the pain he caused her family.
Originally published in early 1813, Pride and Prejudice became a literary success before the end of the year. This new edition has been annotated and edited by David M. Shapard, a specialist in European history of the 18th Century. The Annotated Pride and Prejudice follows faithfully the text of the first edition (1813), which was checked by Jane Austen. The only changes made to the text were to make spelling or capitalization of proper names consistent.
The text is presented on the left page and annotations are presented on the right page. Annotations are provided on a wide range of topics: literary interpretations, word meanings, explanations of items such as a "chaise and four" which in some cases include illustrations, and explanations of historical context. While this classic can be enjoyed without the extras, understanding the small distinctions between a phaeton, gig, carriage and "chaise and four" can help demystify social interaction in 18th Century society.
Devotees of Austen's work will find that The Annotated Pride and Prejudice provides a fresh illumination to a favorite work. Those reading it for the first time will find the annotations, maps and timelines helpful in understanding this exceptional novel.
Armchair Interviews says: Whether for the first or hundredth time, this is always a great red.