The Golden Mean Never Fails

At this point, I am about half way through the book and it still feels as if nothing is really happening. Yes, the characters are beautifully developed and the story is retold with exceptional imagery and detail, but nothing much has happened in the storyline. However, what I have been enjoying is the fact that the story seems to be continually developing thematically. Deception/misunderstanding has more recently become an evident theme with Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth and the lies that she believes to be true about him. She has clearly been blinded by her ignorance in believing Wickham and the inflated pride she has in herself. Another interesting aspect has been the contrast and fine line that Austen draws between having pride and being arrogant. The word “civility” comes up very frequently which has made me think of its connection to The Odyssey and how it may relate to pride. Being civil means being proud to a healthy extent and being able to find the golden mean between self-hate and hubris. Finding this balance is key to achieving both happiness and love, things every girl, but especially Elizabeth, desires.