A Fresh Austen Adaptation Finally Gives Mary Bennet Her Due
By
Brandy Jensen
Crackles when you bite it. Shows the baker did the work.
Summary
This article analyzes Mary Bennet from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, arguing that she deserves more sympathy and depth than Austen gave her. The piece examines how Mary, as the plain, bookish middle sister, is often dismissed or caricatured, and suggests that a modern adaptation focusing on her character would be a fresh and worthwhile take on Austen's work. The article critiques how adaptations typically overlook Mary in favor of her more glamorous sisters.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledMary Bennet, middle of five, has few virtues to recommend her.
Unlike her eldest sister, Jane, she is not beautiful. Nor is she witty, like second-eldest Elizabeth.
Although one might think Jane Austen, bookish and unwed as she was, would draw Mary with some degree of sympathy, she describes her in Pride and Prejudice as having 'neither genius nor taste; and though vanity had given her application'
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