RIGID SOCIAL STRUCTURES OF THE 19TH CENTURY ENGLAND THROUGH JANE AUSTEN’S NOVEL PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Abstract

This thesis analyses the rigid social structure in 19th century England through Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice. The research examines how rigid social hierarchies, characterized by clear class divisions (upper class, middle class, and lower class), limited the choices of individuals, particularly women. The analysis focuses on several key aspects: marriage as a social transaction, social hierarchy and ethics, land and wealth ownership, and prejudice and discrimination. Using Marx's theoretical approach, this thesis reveals how economic and social structures shape character choices, interpersonal relationships, and social opportunities. Through a qualitative analysis of dialog, narration, and description in the novel, the results show how strict social norms limit individual freedom and create conflict between personal desires and societal demands. The findings of this study highlight Austen's critique of the social injustice and inequality inherent in the rigid class system of nineteenth-century England, and emphasize the relevance of these themes in contemporary social contexts. Keywords: Marriage, Elizabeth, Hierarchy, Social and Moral