In 19th society, where economic sense was a determining factor in most partnerships, and where a rigid adherence to the strict religious and moral value systems was to be expected, an individual was in most cases shaped and defined by the society in which they lived. However, some would argue that the individual plays a part in structuring these traditions to which society adheres and thus it is infact the individual that shapes our society. Literature of the 19th century gives us instances of individualism despite society an example of which can be seen in Simon Langton's film adaptation of Jane Austin's novel Pride and Prejudice. Conversely, theorist Jeremy Benthem and poet William Blake, both contemporaries of Austin illustrate the lack of individualism in 19th society and highlight the influence society has over the individual.

The concept of individualism is one that places the value, autonomy and benefit...