Fitzwilliam Darcy Esquire, generally referred to as Mr. Darcy, is one of the two central characters in Jane Austen's 1813 novel Pride and Prejudice. He is an archetype of the aloof romantic hero, and a romantic interest of Elizabeth Bennet, the novel's protagonist. The story's narration is almost exclusively from Elizabeth's perspective; the reader is given a one-sided view of Darcy for much of the novel, but hints are given throughout that there is much more to his character than meets the eye. The reader gets a healthy dose of dramatic irony as Elizabeth continually censures Mr. Darcy's character despite the aforementioned hints that Mr. Darcy is really a noble character at heart, albeit somewhat prideful. Usually referred to only as "Mr. Darcy" or "Darcy" by characters and the narrator, his first name is mentioned twice in the novel.
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet by C. E. Brock (1895) "She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me."
Mr. Darcy by C. E. Brock, 1895
Colin Firth’s portrayal of Darcy in Pride and Prejudice (1995 TV series) is regarded as among the finest interpretations of the character.
Bust of Mr. Darcy played by Matthew Macfadyen in the 2005 film adaption
Jane Austen was an English novelist known primarily for her six novels, which implicitly interpret, critique, and comment upon the British landed gentry at the end of the 18th century. Austen's plots often explore the dependence of women on marriage for the pursuit of favourable social standing and economic security. Her works are an implicit critique of the novels of sensibility of the second half of the 18th century and are part of the transition to 19th-century literary realism. Her deft use of social commentary, realism and biting irony have earned her acclaim among critics and scholars.
Portrait, c. 1810
Church of St Nicholas in Steventon, as depicted in A Memoir of Jane Austen
Steventon parsonage, as depicted in A Memoir of Jane Austen, was in a valley and surrounded by meadows.
Portrait of Henry IV. Declaredly written by "a partial, prejudiced, & ignorant Historian", The History of England was illustrated by Austen's sister, Cassandra (c. 1790).