Bridget Jones’s Diary is a modernization of the British classic masterpiece Pride and Prejudice. Set in a different era, the 1996 novel about Bridget Jones references the original in various ways.
Detailed answer:
Bridget Jones’s Diary was immediately read as a modern adaptation of the classic plot. The story about a 30-year-old Bridget Jones and her search for love has much in common with Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. It includes multiple references to the original text and its characters.
First, the plot of Bridget Jones’ Diary mirrors the original story. They are both love stories focused on young women who deal with finding a significant other. Despite the difference in time periods, the heroines feel the societal pressure to find a partner. Second, both novels dwell on such issues as family expectations, prejudices, and personal development.
Moreover, Bridget and Elizabeth fall in love with a man called Darcy, a wealthy prideful gentleman. Daniel Cleaver reminds readers of Mr. Wickham from the original. Bridget’s mother mimics Mrs. Bennet in her wish to marry off the daughter.
Finally, there is a movie adaptation of Fielding’s book starring Renee Zellweger, Hugh Grant, and Colin Firth. The latter is famous for playing Mr. Darcy in the filming of Jane Austen’s novel. The creators used the same actor to emphasize the connection between the two books. Interestingly enough, both of them entered the BBC list of 100 books that shaped the world.