A quick look at a few aspects of a classic novel, tightly produced, with no ponderous gaps on the part of the speakers and appropriate music tastefully interwoven. I had just finished reading the novel and tried to imagine while listening to this program how interesting it would be if I wasn't familiar with the story. I'm not convinced that those unfamiliar with "Pride and Prejudice" would stay with this too long. They don't need to have read the novel, though, as movie and TV versions are given some consideration.
This is an appreciation of Jane Austin?s novel ?Pride and Prejudice? and the reasons this romantic comedy remains popular nearly 200 years after it was written. With help from three Austin experts, the host explores the economics of 19th century marriage, the various modern adaptations of Austin?s story, and what the novel reveals about the status of women in Regency England. Although much of the information conveyed in the piece is interesting, a less formal approach would have made for more engaging radio. The host?s narration is quite formal as are the comments by the experts, all of whom are professors; at times it feels as if I'm attending a lecture. One of the most effective elements is the generous use of period music which does succeed in transporting me back in time and conjuring images of aristocrats exchanging glances and banter, as they waltz to a string quartet.
Comments for What's the Word? Pride and Prejudice
This piece belongs to the series "What' s the Word? - A series of half-hour programs to celebrate Women's History Month in March"
Produced by [redacted] [redacted]
Other pieces by Modern Language Association
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2 comments
David Harris
Posted on April 16, 2007 at 04:51 PM | Permalink
Review of What's the Word? Pride and Prejudice
A quick look at a few aspects of a classic novel, tightly produced, with no ponderous gaps on the part of the speakers and appropriate music tastefully interwoven. I had just finished reading the novel and tried to imagine while listening to this program how interesting it would be if I wasn't familiar with the story. I'm not convinced that those unfamiliar with "Pride and Prejudice" would stay with this too long. They don't need to have read the novel, though, as movie and TV versions are given some consideration.
Taki Telonidis
Posted on March 29, 2007 at 09:36 AM | Permalink
Review of What's the Word? Pride and Prejudice
This is an appreciation of Jane Austin?s novel ?Pride and Prejudice? and the reasons this romantic comedy remains popular nearly 200 years after it was written. With help from three Austin experts, the host explores the economics of 19th century marriage, the various modern adaptations of Austin?s story, and what the novel reveals about the status of women in Regency England. Although much of the information conveyed in the piece is interesting, a less formal approach would have made for more engaging radio. The host?s narration is quite formal as are the comments by the experts, all of whom are professors; at times it feels as if I'm attending a lecture. One of the most effective elements is the generous use of period music which does succeed in transporting me back in time and conjuring images of aristocrats exchanging glances and banter, as they waltz to a string quartet.