Austen, Jane (1775-1817) - English novelist often referred to as the
greatest woman writer. She is known for her brilliant satire and her common-
sense approach toward melodramatic situations and ordinary human behavior.
Pride and Prejudice (1813) - Austen's most popular work -- the story of the
Bennet family. Mrs. Bennet occupies her time searching for husbands for her
five daughters including the book's intelligent heroine, Elizabeth, who
represents "prejudice." Her suitor, Fitzwilliam Darcy, represents "pride."
