Jane Austen publishes Pride and Prejudice anonymously

Background. Jane Austen began writing First Impressions in 1796, which later became Pride and Prejudice. The manuscript underwent significant revisions between 1811 and 1812. Austen sold the publishing rights to Thomas Egerton for £110. The novel was part of the transition to 19th-century literary realism, critiquing earlier novels of sensibility. Egerton published the work in three hardcover volumes in London.

Publication Details. Pride and Prejudice was published in January 1813 by Thomas Egerton. The specific date of publication was 28 January 1813. The novel appeared anonymously, attributed to 'By the Author of Sense and Sensibility'. This anonymity was common for women authors at the time, as novels were considered a lesser literary form compared to poetry. The first edition consisted of three hardcover volumes.

Reception and Impact. Although Pride and Prejudice was a moderate success, it did not bring Austen public fame during her lifetime. By October 1813, a second edition was being sold. The novel's anonymity limited personal renown. However, it was well-received by critics, including Sir Walter Scott, who praised its realism. The work contributed to the shift towards 19th-century literary realism.