Many question why Pride and Prejudice is still popular almost two hundred years after its original publication in 1813. This question has a simple answer; it is still relevant. The novel’s themes of love and marriage are eternal, as are its characters. Elizabeth Bennet is considered one of the best literary characters ever. Anyone, male or female, young or old, rich or poor can identify in some way with Lizzie. She is an intelligent, quick witted young woman, possessing many other talents. Her loving nature and her overall kindness add to her appeal. But the most endearing qualities that Elizabeth possesses are her faults. Her pride and her prejudices, not to mention her occasional incivility, keep Elizabeth relevant today. These faults are universal and timeless. We have all had our own experiences with these imperfections of human nature. We identify with Lizzie’s shortcomings, and we learn that it is okay to rebel against social norms.The character of Elizabeth Bennet gives the reader self-confidence.
The best characters in literature are ones you can see yourself in. When you put yourself in the character’s shoes without knowingly doing it, when you become invested in a character, you no longer care if the ending is realistic. All you want, all you desire is that character’s happiness. This is why Lizzie’s happy ending is embraced. It may border on the trite and predictable, but it works because of Lizzie. It works because she deserves a happy ending, and because the reader will accept nothing less. It all comes back to her faults. Without them, Lizzie ceases to be realistic and the reader ceases to become one with the character. With them, Lizzie takes her place as one of the best literary characters of all time. When it comes down to it, Elizabeth (and Pride and Prejudice in general) is liked for her strengths, but loved for her faults.