Question

Which lines in these excerpts from Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice are examples of free indirect speech?

Answer 1

When looking at literature, direct speech is easily discernible because of the quotation marks seen before the quotation.  Indirect speech, however, is not so easily discernible because there are no quotation marks that make it easy for readers to see where the speech is.  There are, however, ques that clue readers in on where indirect speech begins as indirect speech in literature is where what someone said is being discussed, described, or reiterated.  Words to look out for could be “he said,” “she tells,” “all chanted,” “most talked about.”  While there are descriptions of what someone was thinking, there are no descriptions of speech.  As such, and with this in mind, there does not appear to be any sort of indirect speech included in the excerpts provided. 

Answer 2

Answer:

Nothing could be more delightful! To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love; and the very lively hopes of Mr. Bingley's heart were entertained.

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