This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
By Terri-Ann Williams
This year the much loved classic Pride and Prejudice turns 200!
Jane Austen's romantic comedy was released in 1813 and is often said to be the greatest romantic comedy ever written. The book has gone on to
inspire films and sitcoms such as the wonderful 1995 TV series, the 2005 Keira Knightley film and the TV
series ‘Lost in Austen’ in 2008.
In recognition of the magnificent achievements of
Pride and Prejudice, BBC Two will recreate a Regency era ball, exactly like the one in the classic novel.
Pride and Prejudice: Having a Ball, which will be filmed on location at Chawton
House, Hampshire and will air on BBC Two this Spring, will look
specifically at the social conventions surrounding Austen's world. Just how important were these balls in the pursuit of finding a husband?
Janice Hadlow, Controller, BBC Two, said: “Pride And Prejudice is a cornerstone of British cultural and literary heritage and, 200 years after it was published, it is fantastic to be able to bring BBC Two audiences a new look at the goings on behind the popular social event of the era.”
During the 90 minute special, the team of experts will put together the foundations of a typical early 19th century ball. The team will look back at first-hand testimony of ball-goers of the time, and end with a beautiful, authentic adaptation based on Austen's Netherfield Ball, which is a huge turning point in the ever blossoming romance between Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy.
As far as English Literature goes, Pride and Prejudice is right at the top of the ranks, the novel has sold over 20 millions copies worldwide and will undoubtedly go on to sell many more, as the book is passed through generations. It's inspired so many of the books we feature here on Novelicious and is often cited as a favourite in our author interviews.
For those of you who are not familiar with the classic, the story centers around the Bennett family who live in the fictional town of Meryton in Hertfordshire, London. The story follows Elizabeth Bennett, the second of five daughters, as she gets to grips with education, morality and marriage in the society of the landed gentry. Despite the story being set in the 19th century the novel is one of the most popular novels in English Literature and has topped lists such as The Big Read and continues to be a British classic.
Faye Grima, 20 from Sheffield; describes Austen as one of the best, earliest female writers and said:
“I think Pride and Prejudice
is less relevant in terms of its content in modern day society as female roles
have adapted since the period it was written…The concept of needing a man to "save
you" has definitely changed however this is still arguably an ongoing idea
in modern day society.
Pride and Prejudice is such a national treasure. We can't wait to see the recreation when it airs this spring. Wonder if Colin Firth will be there…