Although Jane Austen is not typically known for her prodigal use of literary devices, she does make use of several devices in her works, most notably irony, sarcasm, metaphor and symbolism.

In "Pride and Prejudice", as well as with most of her other novels and short stories, Austen uses her talent for humor in order to more clearly portray the motivations and longings of her characters. The most humorous passages in the novel are reserved for the antics of Mrs. Bennet and her equally silly daughter, Lydia.

Also in "Pride and Prejudice", the estate at Pemberly remains a constant symbol of Mr. Darcy, Elizabeth Bennet's exceedingly wealthy suitor. When Elizabeth first meets Darcy, she is put off by his haughty demeanor, just as he is offended by her sensibilities. The irony of their first encounter is that they are really perfectly matched, although neither realizes it to begin with.

In "Pride and Prejudice", as with her other novels, Austen does not use an excess of symbolism, although there are several important associations between the characters and their respective social status. Darcy's Pemberly is representative of his wealth and high social class, but the carefully manicured estate, almost noble in its appearance, is also representative of Darcy himself.

Like Pemberly, Darcy seems imposing and intimidating, but is actually kind-hearted and generous. Likewise, the estate at Pemberly not nearly as imposing as Elizabeth once believed. Pemberly is described in the novel at a period when Elizabeth is questing her first analysis of Darcy, and perhaps even warming to him. The visit to Pemberly, the home of Darcy family, is essential to this transformation.

In the same way that Pemberly represents Darcy, the hopelessly inept Mr. Collins is characterized by his relationship with the snooty Lady Catherine de Bourgh (Darcy's aunt). Even though Mr. Collins has very little social station to speak of, he tries (and fails) to increase his reputation by hanging on to his wealthier relatives.

"Pride and Prejudice" is not characterized by its in-depth descriptions of scenes and people, but rather by the conversations between characters that, however subtle, might change an entire relationship. Reflective of the society at this time, subtlety in the social graces was highly regarded, especially in women of any social standing. In this way, Elizabeth manages to skewer those around her without seeming offensive.