In D.W. Harding’s essay about Jane Austen he argues that Austen never intended for Pride and Prejudice to be a satire; instead he says she just meant to entertain “a posterity of urbane gentlemen”. Although he has the right to argue as he pleases he gives no evidence of the fact; therefore, all he says is just speculation about what he thinks Austen’s intentions were. Satire is defined as the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices. If this were true then Austen’s novel would be considered a satire because of her use of exaggeration and ridicule. Austen felt restricted in her male dominant society and her writing was her escape from the world she was trapped in. She uses exaggeration of ideas and roles in society to ridicule the ideals and goals of people in the old society; therefore, classifying her novel as a satire.
Very nice Nick. After reading a couple i realized that you were more straight to the point than others. I agree 100% with "She uses exaggeration of ideas and roles in society to ridicule the ideals and goals of people in the old society; therefore, classifying her novel as a satire." for me that pretty much nailed it. I agree with nick that Austen just uses a exaggeration of characters to ridicule the people in that society.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Nick. For he accuratley states my idea of Austen using exageration to ridicule society as opposed to fearing society.
ReplyDeleteNick I am in complete agreement with your argument. Harding definitely bases his points on speculation, yet on the area about Austen's work being satire is absolutely true. Austen's Pride and Prejudice is an exaggeration and ridicules people in Austen's society. I think your points are clear and helpful to our class discussion.
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