Pride and Prejudice ( Minz ma'am )

Pride and Prejudice

Characters :

Mr. Bennet
Mrs. Bennet
Jane
Elizabeth
Mary
Catherine
Lydia

Historical background.

The original version of Pride and Prejudice came under the name, ‘First Impressions’ which was completed in 1797. The work was rewritten and was renamed, Pride and Prejudice in the year 1813. It became the representative of mature Jane Austen. A few critical comments made during that time focused on the skill of Austen at creating character. In 1870 the most significant 19th century critical article on Austen was published by Richard Simpson. In the article Simpson discussed the complexity of Austen’s work including her use of irony. Various critics have noted that the plot development of Pride and Prejudice is determined by character where coincidence exerts a major influence but turns off action are precipitated by character. Although human weakness is a prominent element ranging from Caroline Bingley's jealous to Elizabeth's blind prejudices outright evil is little in evidence. Austen maintains an attitude of good humoured irony towards her character. During Austen's career romanticism reached its zenith of acceptance and influence, but she rejects the tenets of that movement. The romantics extols the power of feeling whereas Austen upheld there supremacy of rational faculty. Romanticism advocated abandonment of restrain, Austen was a  staunch exponent of neoclassical belief in order and discipline.
The romantics emphasized on feelings.
The romantics believed in no restrain / control. Austen believed in order and discipline.
The romantic saw in nature a transcendental power to stimulate control to the better existing order of things which they saw as essentially tragic in its existing state. Austen supported traditional values and supported traditional values and the established norms and viewed the human condition in the comic spirit.

The romantics believed in transcendental power of nature and expressed it tragically.

Austen believed in traditional values and established norms and expressed it comically.
The Romantics celebrated the natural beauty but the Austen’s dramatic technique is sparse of description of natural surroundings.

Austen's Modus operandi :

1.Not a romantic/ used realism.
2.Used humour.
3.Used irony to comment on various situation.

Characters :

Elizabeth Bennet :
An intelligent and spirited young women, who possess a keen wit and enjoys studying people's characters. Although, she initially dislikes Darcy circumstances cause her to re assess her negative impression of him and she eventually falls in love with him.

Fitzwilliam Darcy.
A wealthy proud man falls in love with Elizabeth but reveals a generous thoughtful nature beneath his somewhat stiff demeanor.

Mr. Bennet.
He is Elizabeth’s ironic and a pathetic father.

Mrs. Bennet.
She is foolish unrestrained mother of Elizabeth obsessed with finding husbands for her daughters.

Jane Bennet.
She is eldest gently kind hearted women Elizabeth's confidant. She falls in love with Bingley but conscious about revealing his feeling.

Mary Bennet.
Third daughter. She prefers reading over socializing.
Katherine (Kitty) Bennet.
Fourth daughter, she joins his sister Lydia in flirting with soldiers.

Lydia Bennet.
Immature and irresponsible youngest daughter. She runs away with Wickham.

Charles Bingley.
Good natured wealthy man.

Caroline Bingley.
Sister is Charles Bingley.

George Wickham.
Irresponsible soldier.

Lady Catherine Borough.
She is the arrogant aunt of Darcy.

Synopsis of ‘Pride and Prejudice’.

In the neighbourhood of Bennet family’s in state of Longbourn. Mr. Bingley, an attractive young bachelor with a good income has moved into the nearby manor. He falls in the love with the oldest of the five Bennet’s daughter, Jane. But his friend wealthy and aristocratic disapproves of Bingley's choice. Darcy considers the Bennet family to be socially inferior and he plots with the Bingley's sister to separate the lovers. Meanwhile, though Darcy is finding it hard to resist his own increasing attraction to Jane's younger sister, the vivacious Elizabeth. Because Mr. Bennet had no son, his state will be inherited by his nearest male relative, Mr. Collins. This pompous clergyman comes to Longbourn seeking a wife, he proposes to Elizabeth who rejects him but he winks her best friend Charlotte Lucas, a plain young women who marries Collins who escapes from Spinsterhood into a safe and secure marriage though it was loveless. The story continues with an interweaving of plots and subplots during her travels with the Gardiners. Elizabeth receives bad news from the Longbourn. The youngest Bennet girl sixteen year old Lydia has run away with Wickham. Such a scandal must disgrace the whole family and Elizabeth decides that just as a feelings towards Darcy have begun to change, any hope of renewing his proposal is lost forever. Darcy feels partially responsible for Lydia's elopement, he feels he should have warned the Bennets that Wickham once tried the same thing with Darcy’s own sister. Besides he is very much in love with Elizabeth. For her sake, he searches out the fugitive couple, makes sure that they are legally married, pays Wickhams debts and buys him a commission in the army. All this he does secretly. But though sworn to secrecy Lydia reveals Darcy's part in her rescue and Elizabeth realises at last how wrong she has been. Bingley with Darcy's encouragement proposes to Jane and is accepted. Soon Darcy makes his proposal again to Elizabeth. By now, she has been abandoned her prejudices and has subdued her pride and so they are married and all ends happily.

Themes

Pride and Prejudice contains one of the most cherished love story in English literature symbolised between Darcy and Elizabeth. As in any good love story, the lovers must elude and overcome numerous stumbling blocks, beginning with the tensions caused by the lovers caused own personal qualities. Elizabeth’s pride makes her misjudge Darcy on the basis of her first impression while Darcy's prejudice against Elizabeth’s to a poor social status blinds him to her many virtues. Darcy's and Elizabeth's realisation of a mutual tender love seems to implied at Austen views love as something independent of the social forces. She viewed love as something that can be captured only when an individual is able to escape the warping effects of hierarchical society. Austen sounds more of a realist when she uses the character of Charlott Lucas who marries the buffoon Mr. Collins for his money and demonstrates that heart does not always dictate marriage. Yet with her central characters Austen suggests that true love is a force separate from society and one that can conquer even the most difficult of circumstances.

Pride

In chapter 5 of the text, Mary Bennet, rightly says human nature is particularly prone to pride. Throughout the novel ‘Pride and Prejudice’ pride prevents the characters from seeing the truth of a situation. Most notably, it is one of the two primary barrier in the way of a union between Elizabeth and Darcy. Darcy's pride in his social position leads him to scorn anyone outside his own social circle. Meanwhile Elizabeth’s pride in her power of discernment cloud her judgement. These two find happiness by helping each other overcome their pride outside of Elizabeth and Darcy, Jane Austen seems pessimistic about the human ability to conquer this character flaw. The secondary characters like Mrs. Bennet, Lady Catherine, Mr. Collins and Caroline Bingley remained deluded by personal pride throughout the novel.

Prejudice

Critic A Walton Litz comments “ In ‘Pride and Prejudice’, one cannot equate Darcy with Pride or Elizabeth with Prejudice. Darcy’s pride of place is founded in social prejudice while Elizabeth's initial prejudice against him is rooted in pride of her own quick perception. Both the characters’ ego drives them towards personal prejudice. Darcy has been taught to scorn anyone outside his own social circle and must overcome his prejudice in order to endure himself to Elizabeth. Similarly Elizabeth’s excessive pride in her discernment leads her to distanced from Darcy.

Depiction of women

Jane Austen is very critical of gender injustices present in 19th century. English society particularly as perpetrated by the institution of marriage. Financial security was one of the prime concerns irrespective of the age, personal quality and eligibility in a person. However in her portrayal of Elizabeth, Austen shows that women are just as intelligent and capable as their male counterparts. In the novel Elizabeth's happy ending reveals Austen's belief that women has the right to remain independent until she meets the right man.

The first sentence of the book establishes the major theme of Pride and Prejudice's Austen states “it is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be want of a wife”.

This sentence introduces the theme of marriage and also introduces the tone of irony. In its basic sense irony is the use of words to express something other than, or opposite of the literal meaning. The first sentence literally means “everyone knows that a single rich man is looking for a wife.” However, relating it ironically, the sentence means :

“Everyone knows that a single rich man will be pursuit by women who want to be his wife.”

Similarly, Austen also places her characters in situations that seem to signify one thing and are later revealed to signify something else.
Irony is employed in Pride and Prejudice as the lens through which society and human nature are viewed. Through the novel, Austen studies social relationship in the limited society of a country. (Analyse character of Mr. And Mrs. Bennet, refer to the dialogues quite contrast and sarcastic ).

This gossipy small town environment is a microcosm of society at large. In discussing Darcy's proud nature Charlotte Lucas says, “his pride does not offend me so much as pride often does, because there is an excuse for it. One cannot wonder that so very fine a young man, with family, fortune, everything in his favour should think highly of himself. If I may so express it. He has a right to be proud.”
Charlott's assessment of Darcy’s pride represent a perspective on wealth and privilege that was common in 19th century Britain.

The discussion between Elizabeth and Jane help us to peep into their characters. Jane is depicted as a young woman with a kind and generous heart and who is always willing to see the best in people. More spirited than her sister, Elizabeth is a sharp observer of human nature who doesn't hesitate to make judgement. She criticizes Jane for being blind to people’s flaw, and accusation which will ironic later in the novel when Elizabeth discovers her own blindness regarding appearances and prejudices.

Two features that distinguish Elizabeth from other women throughout the novel are her quick wit and her energy. In these chapters we see her display these qualities. Elizabeth exhibits a vigor and intelligence that appeals to all.

Elizabeth's wit is evident in her dialogue whether she is debating with Charlotte, the reasons for marriage or discussing with Darcy. The existence of accomplished women. We get a sense of her energy as she delivers opinions and retorts with precision and speed. Elizabeth enjoys physical activity especially walking as she walks three miles Longbourns to Netherfield to see her sister. Interestingly, the characteristics that set Elizabeth apart from other women in the novel are the very qualities that appeal to Darcy. He first notices that her face is 'rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expressions of her dark eyes'. As he listens to her conversation, Darcy is intrigued by her ability to express herself and tells her that she speaks 'with great energy'. Darcy is also drawn to Elizabeth's 'light and pleasing' and the 'easy playfulness of her manners when she walks to Netherfields. Darcy feels admiration of the brilliancy which exercise has given her complexion'. Elizabeth's appeal for Darcy becomes even more apparent in the scene in which Darcy, Miss Bingley and Elizabeth discuss the requirement of an accomplished women. In this scene however Austen gives a direct contrast between Miss Bingley and Elizabeth. While Miss Bingley agrees with everything that Darcy's says, Elizabeth counters her statement with her opposing opinion. Miss Bingley's behaviors towards Darcy makes the reader recall, the first sentence of novel.

"It is the truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife". Austen has shown how desperately the mothers of Hurtfordshire county have thrown their daughters at Bingley and made clear that Darcy is much wealthier than Bingley. The only thing saving him from match making is his reserved proud demeanor dues not put off Caroline Bingley and few other aristocratic women. Consequently for Darcy, Elizabeth forth rightness and apparent dislike of him are probably refreshing qualities in a women.

A little knowledge of 19th century society helps modern readers to understand some of ironic social commentary in this section. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurtz take great delight in ridiculing Jane and Elizabeth's relative who pseudo gentry.

Members of the land owning gentry such as Darcy or the soon to be land owning gentry such as Charles Bingley would consider those who earn their money trade to be socially inferior. Elizabeth's father is among the landlord gentry but her mother comes from a trade family consequently Jane's and Elizabeth's standing in the eyes of elitist like the Bingley sisters is diminished due to their mother's family connections.

Chapter 10-14

The arrival of Mr. Collins brings the issue of entail to the forefront and helps to readers to understand Mr. Bennet's obsession in getting her daughters married. Because Mr. Bennet has no male heir, upon his estate will go to Mr. Collins. Because Mr. Bennet has mismanaged his money, his wife and his daughters will be nearly destitude unless the Bennet girls marry. Austen remarkable develops the character of Darcy and Mr. Collins. The personalities of both men are revealed through acts like letter writing, speaking, reading. Darcy's writing style is different. He writes 'rather slowly and his letters are generally long'. These characteristics help us to understand Darcy that he likes to think about things and is cautious when making choices or decision. That is why he chooses the right word to write. By writing a long carefully worded letter to his sister Georgiana Darcy, Darcy exhibits that he cares for his sister and takes his responsibility for her seriously. This contradicts Elizabeth's perception of Darcy as cold and unfeeling.

Character of Mr. Collins

Meanwhile while Mr. Collins also writes a letter that introduces himself to all. Mr. Collins is a curious blend of arrogance and obsequiousness.

Just as their style of writing reflects different aspects of Darcy and Mr. Collins character.  So does their style of speaking. Darcy is slow to speak and speaks judiciously. Mr. Collins' speaking style is quite frivolous. Mr. Collins communicates in long convulated sentences that range from unending apologies to severe moralising.

Darcy usually requires someone to drawn him into a conversation whereas Collins needs no such invitation. Darcy's extensive library in Dimberly indicates that he enjoys books and reading. He enjoys a solitary activity of living one's social activity of cards. Collins on the other hand has no exposure to books rather than selecting something that everyone will enjoy. Mr. Collins chooses a book of sermons and reads them with very monotonous solemnity.

Chapter 15 to 18

With the introduction of Wickham the plot begins to be more complicated. The perceptive abilities of Elizabeth for Darcy and Wickham are blinded by her prejudice and she is unable to see the true nature of Darcy and Wickham. Elizabeth's prejudice stems from her first impressions of the men whereas she was repulsed by Darcy's arrogant and reserved manners surprisingly she is attracted to Wickham's happy readiness of conversation. Wickham has behaved opposite to Darcy in his first encounters with Elizabeth, appealing to her appreciation of friendly manners as well as to her pride in being the women he choose to sit with.

Consequently Elizabeth's prejudice is so strong against Darcy and against Darcy and for Wickham that she accepts a face value of things. As Wickham talks about Darcy's pride Elizabeth fails to note her own pride that lines her. Austen emphasizes a theme of prejudice as Wickham imposes his prejudice upon Elizabeth and makes her even more prejudiced against Darcy, who it is hinted is prejudiced against all people.

Note :

These chapters give us examples of the importance of manners and decorum in 19th century British Society. In this society manners are associated with social class and accordingly a person's character. For example : members of the aristocracy or lady Catherine De Borough are percieved as proud in their manners because of the high status. Where as the Bennet's sisters are found not appropriate because of their class. Austen satirizes the manners of all classes and exposes people and their nature. For example Austen uses Mr. Collins as an extreme example to show how excessive pride can affect one's manners.

Chapter 19 to 23

Mr. Collins' proposal to Elizabeth is one of the most humorous moment of the novel. Austen has already established the absurdity in Mr. Collins speech and manners but his proposal raises him to new heights of pompous foolishness though the proposal, one can only observe the self-pride and condescension. For Mr. Collins marriage is a business transaction where as Elizabeth wants to marry for love not for convenience. Elizabeth's romantic view of marriage faces a shock when Charlotte decides to marry Mr. Collins. In seeking a love match, Elizabeth is searching for a relationship opposite to that of a parents. Het parents neither loved nor like each other which creates a fragmented household in which neither parent seems happy. Perhaps Elizabeth's objections to Charlotte's realistic perception of marriage are actually objections to her own parent's relationship. Most young women in her situation 19th century Britian might dream of marrying for security as Charlotte does.

Consequently for the Austen's readers, Elizabeth represents an ideal view of the world while Charlotte represents reality.

" She is tolerable ; but not handsome enough to tempt but I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men "

Comment on the statement with reference to Pride and Prejudice ?

Pride and Prejudice are one some of most important themes stated in the novel. Pride and Prejudice both stands in a way of relationship as embodied in the personality of Darcy and Elizabeth respectively. The characters were written to be perfect opposites because in the end both have to give up their own prejudices that prevent them from seeing how perfect they are for each other. The plot revolves around the undermining of their mutual prejudices and how each of forced to reassess their conditioning.

Darcy is forced by his besotted emotions and urges to modify his horror of Elizabeth's family and the lower status. However Darcy is mesmerized by her eyes and her carefree nature and clear sightedness. For Elizabeth the possibility of being mistress of . She begins her journey to overcome her objections. Pride narrows the vision of a person and leads to undermine the qualities of other person. Prejudice blinds the vision and leads to false perception about others. Darcy's pride and Elizabeth's prejudice come in a way of understanding each other and keep them apart. Only when Darcy becomes more humble and Elizabeth becomes more accepting can they relate to one another and find happiness together.

An understanding of Jane Austen's novels

- John Odmark.

The basis of Jane Austen's irony is usually shown to be the conflicting systems of norms and values in the world portrayed, the contrast between the author's values and those in the little country village of her setting or a combination of these possibilities. Pride and Prejudice has always been Jane Austen's most widely read novel. It differs from ' Northanger Abbey ' and ' Sense and Sensibilities '. In the increasing skill the author demonstrates in handling her narrative. And lacks the psychological depths and moral seriousness of the novels that were to follow.

Structural Irony.

More of the characters is left untouched by the irony that infuses the novel. The plot structure is obviously ironic particularly the development of the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy. When Darcy is ready to marry Elizabeth, she is not interested, when she thinks better of it, she appears to have lost interest Mrs. Bennet's ambition expressed in the opening scene to marry off her daughters well is ironically fulfilled, far as Elizabeth and Jane are concerned.

In Pride and Prejudice, irony is also used to delineate character. There are two related systems of values by which characters are judged : Social conventions and moral values. Beginning with chapter 10, much of the story is related from Elizabeth's perspective. But she is just as capable of erring as are the other characters in novel. However there is one kind of error she does not make Elizabeth never fails to distinguish and an ethical mistake. This moral blindness on the part of some individuals is brought out for example in the scene where Elizabeth decides to visit the sisters who has fallen ill, those who take cognisance of Elizabeth action are quite appalled. By her disregard of what is considered proper social conduct. To sight a second example, Wickham's force marriage to Lydia may satisfy social convention and overjoy Mrs. Bennet but the moral issue is not easily done away with.

In rendering character, Jane Austen often uses manners to mirror morals. The portrayal of Mr. Collins is an exception. His obsequiousness is unmistakeable and it reflects his total lack of a sense of what is correct and proper. But the portrayal of the other characters is less obvious.

For example : Wickham deceives Elizabeth with his ability to assume good manners and art of integrity. Here her air of judgement points up the fundamental problem with which she and the reader are confronted. The accurate evaluation of an individuals manners are a means of discovering his moral character. In fact much of the irony in this novel derives from the mistaken judgements made in evaluating the significance of an individual's conduct. And more generally it derives from the characters frequent inability to communicate effectively with one another. (give example. Elizabeth and Darcy interacts )

The action in fact turns on the misunderstanding than exist not only for the characters involved but also for the reader as well. For the reader the ironic implications become clear in retrospect. The main reason for this is reader's closeness to Elizabeth, most of the story is presented with her angle of vision. This encourages the tendency to accept her judgements uncritically. A second reason is a fact that although much of the story is related from Elizabeth's perspective, her own mental life is kept at distance from the reader. Even Darcy is seen for the most part from Elizabeth's point of view. For the first time in Pride and Prejudice Jane Austen succeeds in coordinating the local and structural ironies : the ironies governing the organisation of the plot derived from the ironies developed in the rendering of individual scenes and characters.