1. What we read last night

2. First Impressions
What are your first impressions of Mr. Bennet and Mrs. Bennet? On what do you base those impressions? Whose viewpoint does the opening sentence seem to reflect?

3. Homework for the break:
Read Ch. 2-5; this means you do read Ch. 5
Mark the text for characterization, for scenes/conversations that remind you of the historical information we’ve discussed, for scenes/conversations that remind you of Austen’s life, other interesting parts that you want to discuss in class, or any parts that deemed confusing to you
Check my website for handy questions that might direct your thinking

4. Discussion Questions: Chapter 1-4
What conversation do you find entertaining? Why?
With which character do you most identify and why?
Which character do you find most unlikable? Explain your response.
Select a scene that made you feel discomfort for the character(s) involved and explain your response.
What is the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet? How does Austen convey the tone Mr. Bennet uses with his wife?
Why is Mrs. Bennet so interested in the young man’s arrival?
Despite Bingley’s appearance as a most eligible bachelor, what is revealed about his family, his age, and his inexperience?
How is Elizabeth’s fun at Darcy’s expense different from his own behavior toward her and her friends and family?
Do you agree with Mrs. Lucas’s distinction between pride and vanity and her conclusion that Darcy has a right to feel proud?