Pride and Prejudice exists to show the world that first impressions are not always correct. In fact, they are rarely correct. Jane Austen wrote this novel to show that the circumstances into which a person is born cannot be changed, but through self-knowledge and exposure to correct ideals, one can improve. Austen criticized the influence of others, such as family and friends, on decisions. She also criticized the way people of her era were concerned with their reputations and appearances rather than their character. The themes of this book are marriage, family, prejudice, pride and class. Austen tries to show the reality of marriage, class, family, pride and prejudice. Marriage was not about love in the 19th century, and this is demonstrated when Charlotte Lucas marries Mr. Collins. Charlotte needs to secure a future, and marriage is the only option for a woman to improve her financial situation. Additionally, Mrs. Bennet constantly tries to marry off her daughters throughout the novel. In the 19th century, the only reason women actually existed was because of marriage.. ...