Hi! We are Wit Beyond Measure, a Jane Austen podcast where hosts Catrina and Elle talk everything Austen. Here is a brief introduction to the podcast. Let us introduce ourselves and let you know what you can expect from this podcast. As literature and history lovers, we are excited to step into Austen's world with you as we read through her published works.

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 1-7

Our first episode discusses the beginning of Pride and Prejudice. We meet the famed Bennet family and begin to get an understanding for who each family member is as a character, where they are in society, and how they might progress throughout the novel. We also take a look into the sociology-economic landscape of Austen’s regency England. 

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 8-12

Pardon our recording quality! We are still new to this whole recording process and because of that, this episode - being only our second episode - is not up to our quality standards. Please be kind as this isn't how future episodes will sound.

In this episode we look at what it means to be a guest, a host, and an "accomplished lady" in the world of Pride and Prejudice. We get to see how Lizzy handles herself when left alone with the Bingleys and Mr. Darcy. But most importantly, we get to see the true character of Miss Caroline Bingley, the hostess turned jealous competitor for Mr Darcy's heart.

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 13-18

This episode includes a visit from Mr. Collins, a long-lost relative whose intentions are more than they seem, the arrival of Wickham, a dashing officer who quickly captures our fair Lizzy's heart, and the long-awaited Netherfield ball... wait, Darcy can dance?!  Let's discuss polite dissing, how one-sided stories can spread doubt throughout a small town, and of course, the propriety of not interrupting one's dance - looking at you Sir William.

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 19-24

If you haven't heard enough about Mr. Collins, this is the episode where he really "shines." Yes, we've finally get to discuss the infamous proposal of Mr Collins to Lizzy Bennet. Probably one of the most iconic scenes of Pride and Prejudice, followed by one of the best lines in all of the books. While completely cringe-worthy in itself, this proposal sets up so much of what follows in this classic romance.

Alternative titles:

No is a complete sentence, Mr. Collins.

4 proposal attempts and funeral

The luxury of never having to speak to your crazy mother again.

Charlotte Lucas knows exactly what she wants and how to get it.

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 25 - 33

A lot happens to the Bennet sisters between Christmas and Easter. Both Jane and Lizzy go on a trip. Jane gets a pretty cold welcome in London by Miss Bingley and Mrs Hurst. Lizzy, on the other hand, is welcomed by the newly-wed Collins family. We finally meet Lady Catherine in person. But what is this? Mr. Darcy and his dashing cousin Col. Fitzwilliam decide to visit Rosings while Lizzy is there? This couldn't possibly be awkward - or at least not until a little love triangle starts forming.

Also, conflict between the hosts! Who stands up for Mr Darcy and who condemns his actions with no regard to the fact that he is super cute and flirty in these episodes? (It's certainly not who wrote this description.)

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 34 - 40

Darcy has proven that he is an awkward man, but nothing is more awkward than his proposal to Elizabeth. Full of declarations of love and insults to her family. How romantic? Of course, Lizzy takes this opportunity to tell Mr. Darcy off. This conversation prompts a decidedly long letter what causes Lizzy a bit of an existential crisis.

Pride and Prejudice: Chapters 41- 45

Lizzy Bennet finally gets to see the estate she could have been the mistress of - and she starts to regret her decision. She is in awe of the grounds, and so are we. Let's just say that Pemberly is better at flirting than Mr. Darcy.

While on vacation with the Gardiners, her really cool aunt and uncle from London, the three of them decide to go to the famous Pemberly. As you might expect, Lizzy is nervous, but is assured Mr. Darcy isn't home. Well, that is until he shows up. Now Lizzy has to deal with the embarrassment of finding herself touring the house of the man she refused to marry! Awkward...

Oh, and Lydia goes to Brighton with her newly wed friend and the militia. It's totally going to be fine though.