Question

Which of the following novels opens with the sentence, "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife"?

• A. Sense and Sensibility
• B. Pride and Prejudice
• C. Mansfield Park
• D. Emma

Hint:

When asked about classic novels, always remember the opening lines, especially when they are iconic. Jane Austen's "It is a truth universally acknowledged…" sets the tone for the entire novel, highlighting social expectations and ironic commentary.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The opening line "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife" is from Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice, first published in 1813. This sentence is one of the most well-known and often quoted lines in English literature. It sets the tone for the novel's exploration of themes like marriage, societal expectations, and the role of women in the early 19th century British society. The line also introduces the social environment Austen is critiquing: a world where marriage is seen as a primary goal for women, especially those in the lower or middle classes, and where wealthy men are expected to be actively seeking a wife. This opening also serves to set up the novel's main premise, the tension between individual desire and societal expectation, which will be explored through the characters of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. Austen's use of irony is evident in this sentence, as she begins with a statement that seems straightforward but is later revealed to be a satirical comment on the social norms and expectations of her time. The "truth" mentioned in the sentence is not a fact, but an assumption that drives much of the plot of the novel. Additional Context: The opening line of Pride and Prejudice is significant because it is a clever commentary on the way society regards women's roles in the marriage market. It underscores the societal pressure women, especially those with limited wealth and status, faced to marry a man of fortune to secure their future. Austen critiques this societal attitude by using wit and irony, a hallmark of her writing style. The novel's focus on marriage, class, and the personal development of the protagonists, particularly Elizabeth Bennet, stands as one of the most enduring contributions to literature. The conflict between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, and their subsequent growth as individuals and as a couple, is framed by the pressures and norms around marriage and social mobility.