PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: FREE STUDY GUIDE

LITERARY ELEMENTS

SETTING
The novel is set in the 19th century in England. It is set principally in Longbourn, the Hertfordshire country
town that is a mile from Meryton and twenty-four miles from London. It is a well-ordered, provincial town,
filled with landed gentry and oblivious to the sweeping changes occurring outside the fringes of its narrow,
circumscribed vision.

CHARACTER LIST

Major Characters
Mrs. Bennet
The match-making mother of five daughters. The wife of Mr. Bennet and "a woman of mean understanding,
little information, and uncertain temper," who embarrasses her older daughters with her lack of class and
entertains her husband with her ignorance.
Mr. Bennet
A country gentleman, who is the sometimes irresponsible father of five daughters and the husband of Mrs.
Bennet. He is fond of books and can be witty and amusing.
Jane Bennet
The eldest daughter of the Bennets who is pretty, shy, calm, gentle and good-natured; she falls in love with and
marries Mr. Bingley.
Elizabeth Bennet (Lizzy)
The second daughter of the Bennets who is lively, intelligent, witty and sensible; she at first strongly dislikes
Mr. Darcy and then falls in love with him.
Marry Bennet
The third daughter, who is pedantic, tasteless, plain, vain, silly, and affected.
Catherine Bennet (Kitty)
The fourth daughter, who is almost a non-entity in the novel except for chasing soldiers.
Lydia Bennet
The youngest daughter who is silly, thoughtless, stupid, unprincipled, flirtatious, loud-mouthed and scatter
brained; not surprisingly, she is Mrs. Bennets favorite daughter. She elopes with
George Wickham
A handsome, militia officer
Rev. Mr. Collins
Mr. Bennets cousin who is to inherit Mr. Bennets property. He is a pompous, undignified mixture of servility
and self-importance.
Charles Bingley
A wealthy country gentleman who is kind and charming. He falls in love with and marries Jane Bennett and is
Darcys best friend.
Fitzwilliam Darcy
The wealthy, best friend of Charles Bingley who at first is proud, rude, and unpleasant; after falling in love with
Elizabeth, he is shown to be discreet, shrewd, generous, and magnanimous; in the end, he wins Elizabeths love.

Minor Characters
Georgiana Darcy
The younger sister of Fitzwilliam Darcy who is shy, reserved, and warm-hearted.
Mrs. Reynolds
The trusted housekeeper of Mr. Darcy.
Colonel Fitzwilliam
The cousin of Mr. Darcy who is handsome and well-mannered.
Lady Catherine de Bourgh
Mr. Darcys aunt who is arrogant, over-bearing, domineering, interfering, vulgar and affected; she cannot
tolerate any opposition.
Ann de Bourgh
Lady Catherines daughter who is sickly and coddled by her mother and who has no mind of her own.
Mrs. Jenkinson
Ann de Bourghs teacher.
Caroline Bingley
Mr. Bingleys unmarried sister, who is snobbish, conceited, scheming and jealous.
Mrs. Hurst
Bingleys married sister who lives a lazy, purposeless life.
Mr. Hurst
Bingleys brother-in-law, who is lazy and purposeless, like his wife.
George Wickham
A seemingly charming man with attractive manners, who is really selfish, unprincipled, extravagant and prone
to gambling; he is the villain of the novel, who elopes with Lydia Bennet
Sir William and Lady Lucas
Neighbors and friends of the Bennet family and parents of Charlotte.
Charlotte Lucas
The eldest daughter in the Lucas family who is plain, practical, intelligent and absolutely unromantic; she is a
very close friend of Elizabeth.
Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner
Mrs. Bennets brother and his wife who are sensible and refined; Mrs. Gardiner is a confidante of Jane and
Elizabeth Bennet.
Mrs. Philips
Mrs. Bennets sister, who is as vulgar and ridiculous as her sister; her husband is an attorney.
Mary King
An acquaintance of the Bennet family.

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CONFLICT
There are two major conflicts in the novel which develop the
plot. The first plot centers around Mrs. Bennets desperate attempts to find suitable husbands for her ma
rriageable daughters.

Protagonist
The Protagonist is Mrs. Bennet, whose business of life is to get her daughters married. To this end, she is
assiduously devoted throughout the novel. She presses her husband to develop an acquaintance with Mr.
Bingley (a promising catch); she encourages the sick Jane to prolong her stay at Netherfield; she is anxious that
Elizabeth should consent to Mr. Collins proposal and is crestfallen when she does not; she promotes the
flippancy of Lydia and Kitty and their red-coat chasing.

Antagonist
Mrs. Bennets antagonist is the problem she encounters in getting her daughters married, especially the eldest
two. Bingleys abrupt departure from Netherfield interrupts her plans. This and Elizabeths denial to marry the
odious Mr. Collins seems to thwart her matrimonial scheme of things. Lydias elopement and the consequent
stigma also strikes at the heart of her scheme; ironically, she does not comprehend its fatality.

Climax
The climax of this plot is the engagement of Elizabeth to Darcy. Lydia has already eloped with Wickham, and
Jane has accepted Bingleys proposal. All three of her eldest daughters are to be married.

Outcome
The outcome of the conflict is a happy one. Mrs. Bennets match-making problems are solved, for her eligible
daughters are either engaged or married at the point of climax.

The second plot revolves around Darcy trying to win Elizabeths love.

Protagonist
Fitzwilliam Darcy, a handsome and proud aristocrat, falls in love with Elizabeth. He is attracted by her fine
eyes, elegant figure, buoyancy of spirit, quick wit, and intelligence.

Antagonist
Darcys antagonist is the various obstacles he has to overcome in order to win the love of Elizabeth, including
her vulgar and indiscreet mother, Wickhams false accounts of him, and Elizabeths own prejudice against him.
Elizabeth finds him exceedingly proud and at first strongly dislikes him.

Climax
A high point in the rising action is Lydias elopement, for it threatens to thwart the relationship between Darcy
and Elizabeth; but, on the contrary, it gives Darcy an opportunity to prove his love for Elizabeth by using his
influence to get Wickham to marry Lydia. In turn, Elizabeth realizes the true worth of Darcy. When Darcy
proposes to her a second time, he has lost his pride and she has given up her prejudice. The climax occurs when
she eagerly accepts his proposal.

Outcome
This plot ends in comedy for Darcy accomplishes his goal, winning the love of Elizabeth and her hand in
marriage.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: PLOT SYNOPSIS

SHORT SUMMARY (Synopsis)

Pride and Prejudice is the story of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their five unmarried daughters. They live in the
estate of Longbourn in Hertfordshire, a rural district about thirty miles from London. The family is not rich.
Their property is entailed to pass to the nearest male heir in the family, in this case to Mr. Collins. The main
concern of Mrs. Bennets life is to see that all her daughters are married, preferably to men with large fortunes.
She sees an opportunity for her eldest daughter Jane when Mr. Charles Bingley, a wealthy gentlemen from the
city, occupies the nearby estate of Netherfield Park. In her excitement, she urges her husband to visit Mr.
Bingley on the very first day of his arrival, before any of the other neighbors. Mr. Bennet complies to his wifes
request and visits Mr. Bingley, but withholds information about his visit from the family.
At the next social gathering in Meryton, Bingley brings along his two sisters, Caroline Bingley and Louisa
Hurst. But more importantly, he brings his closest friend, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy. Bingley, who is charming and
social, is immediately attracted to the modest and gentle Jane Bennet. Darcy, in contrast to Bingley, is proud,
rude, and disagreeable. When Bingley suggests that Darcy dance with Elizabeth Bennet, he refuses and
negatively comments on her looks. Elizabeth overhears the comment and develops a strong prejudice against
Darcy. At the next ball in Netherfield, Darcy feels an attraction for Elizabeth and asks her for a dance. She
refuses to dance with him, thereby avenging the earlier insults.

Jane and Bingley continue to be attracted to one another. Caroline Bingley invites Jane to Netherfield for a visit.
While at Netherfield, Jane falls ill and Elizabeth comes to look after her sister. While at Netherfield, Elizabeth
is forced to confront Darcy. She approaches him with wit and sarcasm. Since Darcy has known only flattery
from others, he is charmed by Elizabeths frankness. During her short stay at Netherfield, Elizabeth realizes
Caroline is very contemptuous of her family, its social status, and Mrs. Bennets vulgarity. Elizabeth concludes
that Carolines friendship and cordiality towards Jane is only a pretense.
The male relative to whom the Longbourn estate is entailed is Rev. William Collins of Hunsfort. Mr. Collins
pays a visit to Longbourn with the intention of proposing marriage to one of the Bennet daughters. His pompous
manners and his bloated rhetoric disgust everyone, except Mrs. Bennet, who looks upon him as a prospective
son-in-law. Collins is attracted to Jane, but Mrs. Bennet informs him that she is about to be engaged. He then
turns his attention to Elizabeth and makes a ridiculous proposal of marriage to her. When Elizabeth rejects him,
he proposes to her friend Charlotte Lucas, who, to everyones shock, accepts him. Mrs. Bennet is distressed by
Elizabeths rejection of Mr. Collins because it is the one opportunity she has of keeping the Longbourn estate in
the family.

Bingley and his companions soon depart for London. Both Bingley and Caroline write to Jane to say that they
have closed Netherfield and have no plans of returning to it in the near future. Jane is very disappointed. As
Jane feels frustration over Bingley, Elizabeth finds a new attraction. She meets Mr. Wickham and is foolishly
and magnetically drawn to him. They have a friendly conversation in which she reveals her dislike of Darcy.
Taking advantage of this information, Wickham concocts a story and tells Elizabeth that he has been cheated by
Darcy. Elizabeth takes pity on him and almost falls in love. Mrs. Gardiner, however, warns Elizabeth about
Wickham, who soon marries Miss King.

At the invitation of the Gardiners, Jane goes to London for some rest and change of air. She hopes that she sees
Bingley, even accidentally. Jane makes many attempts to get in touch with him, but Caroline does not even
inform her brother about Janes presence in London. Jane is heart broken, but grows to accept her rejection.

Elizabeth goes to Hunsford to visit Mr. Collins and his new wife Charlotte, who is Elizabeths dear friend.
During Elizabeths stay in Hunsford, Darcy happens to visit his aunt, who also lives there, and attempts to build
a relationship with Elizabeth. To her surprise, Darcy proposes marriage to her in a language so arrogant that
Elizabeth turns him down indignantly. She asks him how he dares to propose to her after separating Jane and
Bingley, who were in love with each other, and after victimizing Wickham. She ends her tirade by saying that
she would not marry him even if he were the last man on the earth. Darcy is upset and leaves in a huff. The next
morning he meets Elizabeth when she goes out for a walk and hands her a long letter that answers all her
accusations. He explains to her that he did not believe that Jane was really in love with Bingley. He also tells
her the truth about Wickham. Elizabeth is shocked by his answers.

There is also another shock awaiting her. Her youngest sister Lydia has been invited to Brighton by a young
officers wife. Lydia is very excited about the trip; but Elizabeth knows how stupid, scatter brained, and
flirtatious Lydia is. She tries to persuade her father not to allow Lydia to go to Brighton. Her father, however,
dismisses Elizabeths fears.

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner plan a tour of the Lake District and take Elizabeth with them. At the last minute,
however, the tour is cut short and the Gardiners decide to restrict their trip to Derbyshire, where Darcy has his
vast estate in Pemberley. Elizabeth makes sure that Darcy is away on business and then agrees to visit
Pemberley, out of sheer curiosity. Pemberley is one of the most beautiful places she has ever visited, and
Darcys elegant tastes are evident everywhere. To top it all, Ms. Reynolds, the housekeeper who has known
Darcy since his childhood, speaks very highly of him, saying he is just and fair. Elizabeth cannot believe that
she has made such a mistake in judging his character. As Elizabeth is looking over Pemberleys lovely grounds,
Darcy himself appears, returning a day before he is expected. He looks surprised to see Elizabeth, and she is
intensely embarrassed. He is polite to her and the Gardiners, and Elizabeth notices that there is no trace of pride
in him.

The following day, Bingley calls on Elizabeth, and his anxious inquiries about Jane indicate that he is still in
love with her. Darcy and his beautiful sister, Georgiana, also call on Elizabeth at the inn to invite her and the
Gardiners to dinner. Elizabeth accepts the dinner invitation. During the dinner, Caroline tries her best to destroy
the friendly relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth by running down Elizabeths family, but she does not
succeed. Darcy is fond of Elizabeth.

News comes that Lydia has eloped with Wickham, so Elizabeth leaves Derbyshire with the Gardiners to return
home. All attempts at tracing the runaway couple have failed. Darcy, touched by Elizabeths distress over
Lydia, seeks to find her and catches up with the couple in London. Darcy convinces Wickham to marry Lydia,
gives him ten thousand pounds, pays up his debts, and persuades him to settle in the North of London. Darcy
then requests that the Gardiners not reveal his help to the Bennet family. Elizabeth, however, finds out the truth
about Darcys assistance. She is impressed with his kindness.

Bingley makes an unannounced reappearance at Netherfield Park, and renews his courtship of Jane. They are
soon engaged. Lady Catherine also arrives unannounced and acts very haughty towards the Bennet family. She
threatens Elizabeth with dire consequences if she marries Darcy, but Elizabeth refuses to promise that she will
not accept a proposal from Darcy. A few days later, Darcy comes to visit and makes a second proposal of
marriage to Elizabeth. This time she accepts wholeheartedly. He thanks Elizabeth for teaching him the lesson of
humility.

The two couples, Jane and Bingley and Elizabeth and Darcy, are married on the same morning. Mrs. Bennet is
overjoyed at having three of her daughters married, two of them to very rich young men. After a years stay at
Netherfield Park, Bingley purchases an estate in Derbyshire. His mother-in-laws tiresome company and her
vulgar behavior are too much even for his calm temperament. The novel finally ends on a note of reconciliation
with all of the characters trying to forgive and forget past insults.

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THEMES

Major Themes
The pivotal theme is that marriage is important to individuals and society. Throughout the novel, the author
describes the various types of marriages and reasons behind them. Marriage out of economic compulsions can
be seen in Charlottes marriage to Collins. Marriage due to sensual pleasure can be seen in Lydias marriage.
The marriage of Jane and Elizabeth are the outcome of true love between well-matched persons.

Another major theme is that pride and prejudice both stand in the way of relationships, as embodied in the
persons of Darcy and Elizabeth respectively. Pride narrows the vision of a person and causes one to
underestimate other mortals. Prejudice blinds the vision and leads to false perceptions about others. Darcys
pride and Elizabeths prejudice come in the 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.

Minor Themes
A minor theme found in the novel is appearance versus reality, with Austen stressing that a person cannot be
judged by his/her outer being. During the course of the book, several characters are not properly judged, for
good conduct does not necessarily mean good character, just as a pretty face does not indicate a pure soul.

Another theme stressed by the author is that in order to display good sense, a vitally important characteristic, a
person must possess intelligence, sensitivity, and responsibility. Each of the major characters in the novel is
judged against these three important criteria.
MOOD

The mood throughout the novel is formal and realistic to its nineteenth century setting. Even though it is a novel
about love and marriage, it is not romantic and emotional, but realistic and practical.

Jane Austen - BIOGRAPHY

Jane Austen was born in 1775 at Steventon, Hampshire in southern England, where her father was a minister.
She was the sixth child in a family of seven children. The family was very close, and Jane had a particular
closeness to her sister Cassandra. Although she attended boarding school for a short while, she was mostly
educated at home. Both she and Cassandra were attractive and attended country parties; neither of them
married, although Jane had several proposals. Much of Janes life is captured in the letters that she wrote to her
sister, but Cassandra cut out any references there might have been about Janes intimate, private life and her
innermost thoughts. In spite of the missing information, the letters retain flashes of sharp wit and occasional
coarseness.

Jane began to write at a young age. Pride and Prejudice, her most popular novel, was the first to be written,
although not the first published. She wrote on it for several years and finally completed it as First
Impressions in 1797. It, however, was not accepted for publication until 1813, when it appeared with its current
version with its new title. As a result, Sense and Sensibility was published first, in 1811. Her other four
novels, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey, and Persuasion were all published between 1814 and 1818.
She also wrote six minor works and one unfinished novel. Because she wanted to avoid attention, most of her
work was not published under her name.
When Mr. Austen retired in 1801, the family moved to Bath, where they lived until Mr. Austens death. The
family then moved to Southampton in 1806, to Chawton in 1809, and then again to Hampshire. A few days
before her sudden death in 1817, she lodged in Winchester.

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL BACKGROUND

A general knowledge of the social and cultural setting in which a novel is written is important, for most novels
mirror the customs and values of a particular society, often criticizing it. The Hertfordshire country town where
the greater part of the novel is set is Longbourn, only a mile from the market town of Meryton and 24 miles
from London. The neighborhood around the Bennets is large, for they dine with twenty-four different families,
only three of which are named. The Bennets society is drawn largely from Meryton (which is the mothers
background) rather than from the country (which is the fathers), for she is more sociable than her husband.
Mrs. Bennet, however, is without social ambition except for her desire to have her daughters marry rich men.

Pride and Prejudice is, thus, set among the rural middle and upper classes who are landowners. None of the
major characters works, for these moneyed classes live entirely on their income from rents and inheritances.
There are, however, petty distinctions among the landed classes, determined by the amount of wealth possessed
by the members. For instance, Miss Bengali and her sister look down on the Bennets because they are not as
wealthy. Class distinctions in Jane Austens time were in fact very rigid. The land-owning aristocracy belonged
to the highest rung of the social ladder, and all power was in their hands. Next in rank came the gentry. The
new, prosperous industrialists and traders (like Mr. Gardiner) were gradually rising as a class, but had still not
won the right to vote. The lowest in English society were the workers and laborers.
For the women of the time, life was largely restricted to the home and the family. For the poor and the lower-
class women, there was ample work in the home and in the fields to keep them busy. But for the ladies of the
landed upper-classes, life was one big round of dances, dinners, cards, and visits to friends and relatives. They
were not required to do any household work. "Ladies," thus, lived a life of ease and leisure, mainly concerned
with society, children, and marriage. By the nineteenth century, the upper classes no longer arranged marriages.
Instead, a girl was introduced to society (and eligible bachelors) at a reception hosted by a married woman who
had herself been presented. Generally, a girl "came out" only after her elder sister was married. (No wonder
Lady Catherine is shocked when she hears that all of Elizabeths sisters have started dating before she is wed.)

Womens education in the nineteenth century was restricted to the daughters of a few families of the upper
classes. In most cases, it was thought to be a waste of time to educate girls. Rich and noble families (like that of
Lady Catherine de Bourgh) engaged governesses for educating their daughters or sent them away to boarding
school, but most women were self-educated at home.

Traveling in Jane Austens time was accomplished in horse-drawn carriages, and a familys social status was
determined by its kind of carriage. Because carriages were slow, travel was limited. Communication of mail and
news was also slow, and there were no daily newspapers. As a result, the outside world does not play a part in
Austens novels. Instead, she turns her attention in entirety to the things she knew: family and values.

THE LITERARY BACKGROUND

Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice appeared on the English literary scene in 1813. The author had worked on its
realistic style and content for more than fifteen years, for she was a perfectionist in her approach to writing. Her
first novel was unlike any of the hundreds of others written at the time, which were mainly Romantic (filled
with emotion and passionate) or Gothic (filled with horror). Austen was the first novelist to portray realistic
characters by using the direct method of telling a story in which dialogue and comment take an important place.
She used the method to dissect the hypocrisy of individuals and the society in which they played their games of
love and courtship.
From the beginning, Austens literature centered on character studies, where a persons common sense (or lack
of it) was developed in detail. The chosen setting was always limited to a small social group of the upper classes
and composed of a few families. Family life was always central to her works. Her novels also portrayed
traditional values and a belief in rationality, responsibility, and restraint. But she often viewed the human
condition, with its many weaknesses, through humor, irony, and sarcasm, with her undesirable characters
portrayed as ignorant, proud, or silly human beings, not evil villains.

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CHAPTER SUMMARIES WITH NOTES AND ANALYSIS

CHAPTER 1

Summary
The novel opens with an ironic statement about marriage, which is the axis around which the world of
Longbourn turns: "It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must
be in want of a wife". Presently everyone in Longbourn, Hertfordshire, is excited about the fact that Mr.
Bingley, an unmarried, rich young man, is to settle at Netherfield Park, a fine estate nearby. Mrs. Bennets
excitement is extraordinary, for she has five daughters that she wants to have married, especially the older ones.
Her mind is fired with matrimonial speculations, and she tries to persuade her husband to pay a visit to Mr.
Bingley as soon as he arrives. Mr. Bennet pokes fun at his wifes impetuosity and jokes that he will give the
newcomer a carte blanche so that he can marry any one of their daughters, including the little Lizzy. Mrs.
Bennet is nettled and accuses her husband of having no compassion for her poor nerves.

Notes

The first sentence of this chapter is one of the famous ones in English literature because of its masterful irony,
its humorous tone, and its foreshadowing of the entire novel. It would appear from the formal opening words,
"it is a truth universally acknowledged", that the novel is going to dedicate itself to lofty ideals. The second half
of the sentence, however, reveals that the "universal truth" is nothing more than a social truth, which ironically
is not a truth at all, but a misrepresentation of social facts. A man with a fortune does not need a wife nearly so
much as a woman, who has no means of outside support in the 19th century, is greatly in need of a wealthy
husband. The entire novel is really an explanation of how women and men pursue each other prior to marriage.

It is apparent from this chapter that the novel is to center on character development and relationship and to
investigate with great detail the behavior and manners of the landed middle-class society of 19th century
England. The family is the heart of the middle-class, and its preservation is vital. Marriage, the key subject
matter of the book, is extremely important in order to continue the family and to supply stability and economic
well-being for the women of the time.

At the beginning of the chapter, Mrs. Bennet is, as usual, displaying her stupidity and vulgarity. Her husband
mercilessly mocks her silliness. It is obvious that Mrs. Bennet is a woman with little understanding and
uncertain temperament, while her husband is shown to be serious, sarcastic, and cynical. He laughs at her total
preoccupation with finding suitable husbands for her five daughters. Jane and Elizabeth, the two eldest
daughters, are embarrassed by their mothers lack of class and blush every time she opens her mouth. Mrs.
Bennet does, however, provide some entertainment to her lazy and heartless husband.

CHAPTER 2

Summary
Mr. Bennet is one of the first callers on Mr. Bingley, and he withholds this information merely to vex his wife.
Still in the dark about her husbands visit, Mrs. Bennet seems ludicrously desperate to have her husband call on
the new neighbor, and her husbands incessant talk about Mr. Bingley seems to rub salt over her wounds. As
Mrs. Bennet grows more impatient and irritated with her husband, he casually informs his wife and daughters
about his visit. They are all astonished at his promptness, and Mrs. Bennet is full of praise for him. She remarks
that he is an "excellent father." Mr. Bennet, disgusted with his wifes outburst, leaves the room to take refuge in
his study.

Notes
The second chapter is filled with unimportant events, but through them the author shows how important Mr.
Bingleys arrival is to the country village. Everyone seems to be excited that a man of means is to live amongst
them. The Bennets are particularly excited. Mr. Bennet is one of the first persons to visit Bingley at Netherfield
Park, but he chooses to keep his visit a secret from his family. Mrs. Bennet, unaware of the visit, grows
impatient and irritated with her husband for not greeting the eligible newcomer. Mrs. Bennet also reveals her
preference for Lydia, her youngest daughter who is vain and stupid, and for Mary, the third daughter who
pretends to be scholarly and reflective and is actually pompous and silly.

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CHAPTER 3

Summary
Mrs. Bennet and her daughters try hard to gain a satisfactory description of Mr. Bingley from Mr. Bennet, but
they fail. Fortunately, Lady Lucas supplies them with a description, which is a very promising one.

Mr. Bingley returns Mr. Bennets visit and is entertained in the library. He is a bit disappointed because he does
not see any of the young ladies, but the girls manage to catch a glimpse of him from the vantage point of an
upper window. When Mr. Bennet visits Bingleys house again to invite him to dinner, Bingley must refuse the
invitation, for he will be in London to make plans for the ball to be held in Meryton.

The Bennet girls finally meet Bingley at the Meryton ball. Bingley is accompanied by his two sisters, Caroline
Bingley and Mrs. Hurst, and by his best friend Mr. Darcy. Mr. Bingley is a handsome man with a pleasant
disposition. His sisters are lovely women with an air of decided fashion. Mr. Darcy, however, is the most
attractive of all. He has a stately posture and exquisite features; above all, he is said to have an income of ten
thousand pounds a year. Unfortunately, he has a cold, reserved manner. When Bingley suggests that he dance
with Elizabeth, he replies that "she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me." Elizabeth overhears the
remark and feels somewhat slighted; but since she has a lively, playful disposition that takes delight in anything
ridiculous, she does not allow the slur to upset her.

This ball changes the future of the Bennet family. Bingley, who dances twice with Jane, falls in love with her;
Darcy, who at first dismisses Elizabeth, is later attracted towards her.

Notes

Chapter three is important for several reasons. First, it paints a picture of the first of many balls, social events
that are very important to the novel. At the ball, Austen carefully depicts the mannerisms of the upper class with
great detail. Two couples are also brought together, Jane and Bingley and Elizabeth and Darcy. Much of the
later novel will revolve around these two couples. The relationship of the couples, however, is quite different.
Jane and Bingley are immediately attracted to one another. In contrast, Darcy openly insults Elizabeth in a
superior manner, and she immediately and strongly dislikes him. The chapter, therefore, introduces the "pride
and prejudice" of the novel: Darcys pride and Elizabeths prejudice against him. The ball is also the setting for
contrasting the personalities of Bingley and Darcy. Bingley is charming and outgoing, while Darcy is reserved,
proud, and unpleasant.

CHAPTER 4

Summary
Elizabeth and Jane, the eldest two Bennet daughters, discuss the events that took place at the ball. Both of them
agree that Bingley is not only rich and handsome, but also very refined. They also agree that Darcy is uncouth
and unpleasant. Elizabeth has not taken to Mr. Bingleys sisters and finds them proud and conceited, thinking
highly of themselves and very poorly of the people who are not as wealthy as they. The good-hearted Jane,
however, refuses to see faults in others and considers them charming.

There exists a firm friendship between Darcy and Bingley although they are temperamentally opposite.
Bingleys easygoing, friendly nature endears him to Darcy, and Bingley places a great premium on Darcys
judgement and sharp intellect. Darcy is the unstated superior amongst the two but his pride is monstrous. The
manner in which the two friends react to the party is quite typical of them. While Bingley is absolutely floored
by the bevy of beauties, especially Jane Bennet, Darcys response is negative: he finds the guests a queer
assortment of people who lack beauty and fashion.

Notes
The purpose of the fourth chapter is character development. Jane reveals herself as a sweet-tempered person,
never offensive and always believing in the basic goodness of people. Jane admits her love for Bingley to
Elizabeth. Elizabeth is shown to be intelligent, critical and high-spirited. She confirms her strong dislike for
Darcy and criticizes Bingleys sisters as well. She is critical of Jane for being "blind" to others. This criticism is
filled with irony, because in the later part of the novel Elizabeth is blind in analyzing Darcy.

The Bingley sisters are rich, compulsive spenders who find most people beneath them in social class and
believe them to be a bore and a bother. In contrast to his siblings, Mr. Bingley is depicted as kind, charming,
and unaffected by his wealth. (He supposedly has inherited property worth one million pounds from his father.)
He enjoys the company of the new people he meets during the ball. He is not at all like his good friend Darcy
who is offensive, proud and rude. He finds the same bunch of people with " little beauty and no fashion". The
contrast in characters is obviously intentional on the part of Austen.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: SYNOPSIS / BOOK SUMMARY

CHAPTER 5

Summary
Mrs. Bennet and her daughters visit the Lucas Family the day after the Meryton ball to discuss the events of the
previous night. Charlotte Lucas has overheard Bingley remark that Jane is pretty and that he likes her very
much. Everyone unanimously approves of Bingley, but they are in disagreement about Darcy. Most of the
women criticize his standoffish behavior and haughtiness; but Charlotte defends Darcy by saying that his
pride is an inevitable corollary to his position in society as a "fine young man with a family fortune".
Elizabeth agrees with her partially and says that she could have easily pardoned Darcys pride if he had not
affronted hers. Mary philosophically muses about the distinction between pride and vanity.

The chapter also gives a brief account of the Lucas family--Sir William Lucas was a tradesman formerly and
was knighted when he was a mayor. He is friendly and courteous. His wife is a kind soul, but too dull. They
have many children, the eldest of whom is Charlotte, a sensible, intelligent, and practical girl.

Notes
Chapter 5 is important for developing the themes of the novel. The theme of appearance versus reality is clearly
depicted. Society in the novel greatly values social manners and bearings. Conduct is of primary importance to
them, but good conduct does not necessarily reflect good character. Jane Austen seems to warn about this. She
points out that appearances are not reality. In fact, appearances help people to hide their true personalities. If
one is blindly led by appearances, it can prove to be dangerous. This fact is later proved by Wickham. He has all
the outward appearances of charm and openness, but these traits hide his wickedness. Even Elizabeth, who is
intelligent and sensible, is entirely charmed by his courtly manners. Darcys outward pride also hides the
goodness that is innate in him.
The original title of the novel was First Impressions. In truth, Pride and Prejudice shows the folly of trusting
ones first impressions, which need to be corrected by keen observation and mature understanding in order to
make a correct final judgment of character. Darcys manners are disagreeable and arrogant, but as the novel
progresses, he proves to be superior in understanding and character. In fact, his character has a greater depth
than Bingleys. But Darcy also has the weakness of judging people by first impressions and outward behavior.
At first, he sees nothing so attractive about Meryton or Elizabeth. Later, he values Elizabeths frankness and
spirit much more than her outward appearance.
Jane Austen also frowned on snobbery and false sophistication. Her portrayal of Mr. Collins and Lady
Catherine de Bourgh proves the truth of this. Even her brief analysis of the Bingley sisters bristles with irony
and mockery of the false values by which they live. The Lucas family also acts with snobbery, even though they
are only of middle class. In this chapter, they tell of snooping on the conversation of others and then gossiping it
as fact.

The conclusion of chapter 5 gives, for the first time, some outward views on pride. Charlotte Lucas believes that
if a person has the advantages of money, social position, and good looks, he has a right to be proud. Elizabeth
somewhat agrees with this view. Mary ridiculously tries to distinguish between pride and vanity. But the author
seems to make no distinction between the two, as she criticizes both in the novel.

It is important to remember that the major idea of the book is "pride" and "prejudice", and both have come into
play by this point in the book. Elizabeths pride (her hurt feelings over Darcys insult of her) prevents her from
seeing any good in Darcy; she is totally prejudiced against him. Likewise, the proud Darcy is prejudiced against
Elizabeths look and cannot see her good and spiritedcharacter underneath.

CHAPTER 6

Summary
The ladies of Longbourn and those of Netherfield exchange visits. Jane Bennets immaculate manners and
cheerful disposition please Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley, but they do not care much about her family. It is quite
obvious to Elizabeth that Jane is succumbing to Mr. Bingleys charms although she is inclined to think that "her
uniform cheerfulness of manner" is a foolproof camouflage to hide her true feelings about anything. Elizabeth
confides this fact to her friend Charlotte.

While Elizabeth is preoccupied with Bingleys attention to her sister Jane, she does not realize that she herself is
becoming the focal point of Darcys attention. Darcy, who had earlier written off Elizabeth as a tolerable
maiden, later realizes that she has lovely eyes and a fine figure. He wishes to know her better and tries to listen
in on her conversations with others.

At a party, Elizabeth is goaded to play the piano and sing. She readily obliges and charms the audience by her
performance. She is followed at the piano by her sister Mary, who is most eager to showcase her talent. Darcy
stands aloof, wrapped in his thoughts. Suddenly, Sir William Lucas draws him into a conversation. Lucas
stumps him by suggesting aloud that he must dance with Elizabeth. Darcy beseeches her to dance with him, but
Elizabeth spurns him in retribution for his earlier refusal to dance with her. As Darcy stands apart and thinks
about Elizabeth, Miss Bingley approaches and asks what he is thinking. He blatantly replies that the subject of
his musings is Elizabeth Bennet. Miss Bingley is stupefied and teases him about the probability of having Mrs.
Bennet for a mother-in-law.

Notes
Charlottes observations about the danger of concealing ones love and her admonition that "a woman had
better show more affection than she feels" are relevant. They foreshadow Darcys influencing Bingley against
Jane on the grounds that her feelings do not seem very deep.
This chapter also offers a discourse on marriage, the central concern of the novel. Charlottes view of marriage
is pragmatic. She is ready to sweep aside romantic considerations for monetary ones. Her later marriage will
fulfill her expectation. Jane and Elizabeth want to marry for love, and Lydia wants to find physical gratification
in marriage.

This chapter also reveals an ironic reversal of situations. At the first ball, Darcy refused to dance with Elizabeth.
At the second ball, Elizabeth refuses to dance with Darcy. As a result, the theme of pride and prejudice gains
momentum. It also causes miscommunication and misunderstanding. Elizabeth assumes that Darcy is again
prejudiced against her because she has stung his pride, but Darcy is actually attracted by her pertness and her
fine eyes.

Jane Austen also presents a contrast between Mary and Elizabeth in the chapter. Mary plays the piano with
studied perfection, reflective of how she lives her life. She desperately attempts to cover up her plainness by
pretending to be rational and intelligent. On the other hand, Elizabeths piano playing is not perfect, yet her
spirited performance highlights her spontaneity and her innate intelligence. She is a creature guided by feeling
and impulse, as will be seen repeatedly in the book.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: LITERARY ANALYSIS / LESSON PLANS

CHAPTER 7

Summary
The Bennets have modest means. Mr. Bennet has only an income of two thousand a year, which unfortunately
will pass to a distant cousin on his death. Mrs. Bennet has inherited only four thousand pounds from her father,
which does not offer substantial security to her daughters.

The young Bennet girls, especially Catherine and Lydia, frequently visit Meryton. It is a village in the vicinity
of Longbourn where their maternal aunt, Mrs. Philips, resides. The arrival of a military regiment in the
neighborhood is a source of great excitement for the young girls. Mrs. Philips accounts of the officers entertain
Catherine and Lydia, and they talk endlessly about the soldiers. Their father is bothered by their perpetual talk
of men and calls them the silliest girls in the country. Mrs. Bennet always defends them.

A note arrives for Jane from Caroline Bingley, asking her to dinner since her brother and Darcy are dining out.
Jane leaves for Netherfield on horseback, and heavy rains prevent her from returning home. A letter arrives at
the Bennets the next morning, stating that Jane is unwell, and, therefore, detained at Netherfield. Mrs. Bennet is
thrilled rather than being upset on hearing this news. She views it as a favorable development of the
matrimonial dream that she has for Jane. Elizabeth is genuinely worried about her sister and walks three miles
to Netherfield to check on her. By the time she reaches the Bingley residence, Elizabeth is a mess. The ladies
are appalled to see her dirty appearance. Darcy wonders why she has walked such a long distance in bad
weather and all alone. At the same time he admires her brilliant complexion, which is aglow with the warmth of
exercise.

When Elizabeth is taken to Jane, she finds her feverish. She has caught a violent cold and needs bed-rest.
Elizabeth is grateful when she is invited to stay with her sister. A servant is dispatched to Longbourn to inform
her parents and to bring clothes for Jane and Elizabeth.

Notes
Mrs. Bennets excessive concern of getting her daughters married is partially due to the financial circumstances
of the Bennets, which are made clear in this chapter. If something happens to Mr. Bennet, the family will have
no income and Mrs. Bennets inheritance from her father is meager.

The appearance of the military regiment in Meryton paves the way for the later introduction of Wickham. It also
brings out the worst in the youngest Bennet daughters, who can talk of nothing but the handsome officers.

The familys reaction to Janes sickness if very typical. Mrs. Bennet is delighted at the situation, for she sees it
as an opportunity for Jane to spend some time with Bingley; she does not seem the least bit concerned about
Janes health. By contrast, Elizabeth is extremely concerned and walks the long distance to Netherfield in bad
weather to check on his sister. Her concern once again highlights that Elizabeth is driven by feeling and
impulse.

The Bingley sisters are also contrasted to Elizabeth in this chapter. They pretend to care about Jane and fawn
over her in a counterfeit manner. Also reflecting their shallowness is their ready to please attitude towards
Darcy, which is quite lackluster when compared to Elizabeths emotions about Darcy.

This chapter is structurally important to the novel. Through Janes illness, the author brings together the four
main characters, Darcy, Bingley, Elizabeth, and Jane, and develops their personalities.

CHAPTER 8

Summary
After dinner, Elizabeth returns to Jane, who is not improving. Elizabeth is very touched by Mr. Bingleys
genuine concern for her ailing sister and the attention he pays to both of them; he is the only one that does not
make her feel like an intruder at Netherfield.

After Elizabeth departs from dinner, Miss Bingley begins to criticize her manners, saying that Elizabeth is a
crude mixture of pride and impertinence and that she lacks style and grace. Mrs. Hurst agrees with her whole-
heartedly and again describes the slovenly fashion in which Elizabeth has arrived at Netherfield. Mr. Bingley
defends Elizabeth, praising her independent spirit and her great concern for her sister. Darcy remarks that the
walk had illumined Elizabeths fine eyes.

Later in the evening, Elizabeth joins the party in the drawing room, where everyone is engaged in a game of
cards. Elizabeth declines to play, preferring to read a book. Miss Bingley makes catty remarks about her choice,
but Mr. Bingley kindly brings Elizabeth some books from his modest collection. The conversation turns to
Darcys fine home, Pemberley, with its imposing library. The mention of Pemberley excites Miss Bingley, and
she pays exaggerated tributes to Darcys house and his accomplished sister. There are subtle overtones of
criticism targeted at Elizabeth in Miss Bingleys observations.

Notes
This chapter further develops the characters of the Bingley sisters. For all their purported sophistication, they
act in an uncultured manner as they deride Elizabeth. Bingley and Darcy refuse to join in the criticism of
Elizabeth. In fact, both men defend her, which upsets Caroline Bingley.

During the chapter, Darcy states what qualifications his future wife must possess. He refuses to have a dumb
beauty for his wife. Instead, he is seeking a lady with taste, elegance, and intelligence. Elizabeth certainly
possesses all three of these traits, even though Darcy does not yet fully realize that fact.

It is important to notice the manner in which the characters speak in this and other chapters. Darcy speaks in
long, involved sentences in a carefully thought-out manner, reflecting his basic nature. Elizabeth answers him
pertly and concisely. Darcy is impressed with Elizabeths ability to summarize the essence of an argument with
so much ease.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: ONLINE STUDY NOTES

CHAPTER 9

Summary
The next morning, Elizabeth dispatches a note to Longbourn requesting her mother to visit Jane. Mrs. Bennet,
accompanied by Lydia and Catherine, arrives soon after breakfast. She is not alarmed by Janes condition, but
both she and the apothecary decide that Jane has not yet sufficiently recovered to return home.

During the visit, Elizabeth is embarrassed by her mothers inane talk and the foolish behavior of her sisters.
Lydia continuously presses Mr. Bingley to give a ball at Netherfield Park. After Mrs. Bennet and her two
daughters depart, Elizabeth goes to attend to Jane. The Bingley sisters chat disparagingly about the
inappropriate behavior of Mrs. Bennet and her daughters.

Notes
Mrs. Bennets visit to Netherfield is a purely farcical episode in which she proves that she is "a woman of mean
understanding, little information, and uncertain temper". During the visit, Mrs. Bennet is seen at her
preposterous worst. Every time she opens her mouth, she makes a fool of herself. Elizabeth is totally
embarrassed at her mothers lack of tact and social correctness. Although Elizabeth is a woman of impulse and
speaks spontaneously, she never defies social decorum. The contrast between Jane and Elizabeth and the rest of
the family is blatant. The elder sisters are well-mannered and dignified and earn the esteem of others, while
their mother and younger sisters behave foolishly and frivolously. It is ironic that Mrs. Bennet, who wants to get
her daughters married to wealthy and polished gentlemen, is a major deterrent to their suitors.

CHAPTER 10

Summary
Jane feels a little better by evening, so Elizabeth again joins the party in the drawing-room. Darcy is trying to
write a letter to his sister, but Miss Bingley repeatedly interrupts him by calling out messages from her to
include in his letter to his sister. When Darcy finally finishes the letter, he turns his attention to the conversation
in the room. He notices that Elizabeth talks animatedly on every subject and is impressed by her sharp
observations and succinct way of wording ideas. Darcy is also magnetically drawn towards Elizabeths fine
eyes. Elizabeth notices that he frequently stares at her.

Darcy asks Elizabeth to dance with him, but she flatly refuses, much to the relief of Miss Bingley, who has been
jealously watching the two of them. Darcy does not feel thwarted by her refusal; instead, he is so bewitched by
Elizabeths unconventional charms that he feels that had it not been for the inferiority of her connections, he
would have been in danger of falling in love with her.

The following morning Jane is feeling much better. Elizabeth goes for a stroll in the garden with Mrs. Hurst.
They come upon Darcy and Miss Bingley in the garden. The path on which they are walking is spacious enough
for three people only, so Elizabeth is rudely left behind by the two sisters to walk by herself. Darcy is annoyed
at how Elizabeth is treated.

Notes
This chapter focuses on the budding relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth, and the pride and prejudice that
stand in its way. Elizabeths wit, animation, and discerning observations impress Darcy. He finds himself
staring at her, especially noticing her fine eyes. When he asks her to dance, she flatly refuses because of her
previously established prejudice against him. Elizabeth is sure that Darcy is mocking her by asking her to
dance, for he has told her he has a low opinion of dancing. If she accepts the invitation, she is certain he will
think she cares only about light and trivial things. The truth of the situation is far from what Elizabeth imagines,
for Darcy is now truly attracted to her. He even thinks that he might fall in love with her, except for her low
connections. With such thinking, Darcy clearly reveals his snootiness and pride, which also stand in the way of
a relationship with Elizabeth.

Miss Bingley is also further developed in this chapter. She constantly thinks only of herself, as evidenced in her
repeatedly interrupting Darcy while he writes a letter; she obviously will do anything to get his attention. She is
also very jealous of Darcy and watches enviously as he takes an interest in Elizabeth. She is quite relieved when
Elizabeth refuses to dance with Darcy.
CHAPTERS 11 - 12

Summary
When Jane is feeling better, Elizabeth takes her to the Netherfield drawing room. Mr. Bingley is delighted to
see her. Darcy is immersed in a book, and Miss Bingley seems more interested in peeking in his book rather
than reading hers. Darcy tries to ignore her; exasperated, she tries to draw Darcys attention by walking around
the room, but Darcy does not even look up. Caroline invites Elizabeth to walk with her and invites Darcy to go
along. Darcy and Elizabeth enjoy a good-humored conversation, and Darcy, progressively enchanted by her,
begins to feel the danger of paying the young lady too much attention. The next morning Elizabeth is
determined to leave and asks to borrow Mr. Bingleys carriage for the purpose. She and Jane depart the next
day. As they leave, Darcy avoids Elizabeth, and Miss Bingley is noticeably polite to her. Mr. Bennet is happy to
have his daughters back, but his wife does not seem to share his happiness and is not very cordial in her
welcome.

Notes
In this chapter, Darcy and Elizabeth verbally joust with one another. Referring to Elizabeth, Darcy says that the
wisest men are made the greatest fool by a person whose first object in life is a joke. Elizabeth retorts that
follies, nonsense, and whims entertain her. She also points out that Darcy is devoid of these things. She then
proceeds to prick his ego by harping on vanity and pride, which she knows are implicit weaknesses of his
personality. Darcy remarks that everyone has a defect in character which often makes a person blind to the good
qualities of others. This remark rings true for all the characters in the novel with the exception of Jane, who
never sees any faults in other people. Elizabeth tells Darcy, "Your defect is a propensity to hate everybody."
Darcy retorts, "And yours..... is willfully to misunderstand others". It
is obvious that pride and prejudice are still getting in the way of the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy.
It is ironic that Elizabeth, who is usually practical and insightful, cannot see beyond her prejudice at this point
in the novel

Besides being entertaining, the rich and sparkling dialogue advances the plot. Darcy is bewitched by Elizabeths
wit and feels it is dangerous to pay her more attention. As a result, he decides to avoid her, as evidenced when
she and Jane depart.

Mr. Bennet is delighted at the return of Jane and Elizabeth. Their mother, however, does not seem very pleased.
She would have preferred them to stay at Netherfield longer, in order to advance their chances with Bingley and
Darcy.

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CHAPTER 13

Summary
The next morning Mr. Bennet informs his wife that they will be having a guest for dinner. Mr. Bennet has
received a letter from his cousin, Mr. Collins, who will inherit Longbourn after Mr. Bennets death. Mr. Collins,
a clergyman, hopes to reconcile the differences between Mr. Bennet and himself. He comes, offering an olive
branch of peace, and hopes that his efforts will be accepted. Mrs. Bennet is perturbed over the visit and
complains about the cruelty of "settling an estate away from a family of five daughters, in favor of a man whom
nobody cared anything about".

When Mr. Collins, a tall, swarthy young man of twenty-five, arrives, he heaps indiscriminate praise on
everything. He compliments Mrs. Bennet on her cooking and speaks highly of everything about the girls. In
every way, he appears to be a peculiar figure.

Notes
Chapter thirteen introduces the reader to Mr. Collins. Like the letter he writes, he proves himself to be a vain
and stupid young man who utters preposterous things. He attempts to be flattering, but is clumsy and foolish.
Mr. Bennet comments that he is "a mixture of servility and self-importance".

A central feature of Austens style is that the dialogue of a character corresponds to his personality. This trait is
clearly seen in this chapter. Mr. Bennet speaks with a tongue-in-check humor. Mrs. Bennet attempts to speak in
long, flowing sentences, but she usually breaks them up with sudden interruptions. Elizabeth speaks in a lively
way. Mr. Collins speech is pompous and contrived.

It is important to note that again in this chapter Mrs. Bennet shows her concern that her daughters will have no
means of support when Mr. Bennet dies, for his estate must go to the foolish Mr. Collins. It is no wonder that
she is concerned about them finding husbands who can take care of them.

CHAPTER 14

Summary
Mr. Collins has secured his parish through the patronage of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, a wealthy widow with
an only daughter. As a result, his attitude towards her is one of fawning subservience, and during his visit at the
Bennets, he never stops praising her. Lady Catherine de Bourghs daughter is a young lady of delicate health,
which precludes her from taking her rightful place in society.

Mr. Collins repeats some of the compliments he has paid to his patroness and her daughter; Mr. Bennet is
thoroughly amused -- " his cousin was as absurd as he had hoped."

After teatime, Mr. Bennet takes his guest into the drawing room, and a book is offered to him. On discovering
that the book is a novel, he cringes in horror and proceeds to read aloud from Fordyces sermons. He is
interrupted by Lydia, who makes a flippant comment about an army officer. Mr. Collins is offended by the
interruption and puts down his book. He spends the remainder of the evening playing backgammon.

Notes
This chapter further develops the ridiculous Mr. Collins. In a solemn manner that makes him appear ludicrous,
he eloquently praises his patroness Lady Catherine and her daughter. His exaggerated shock at being given a
novel to read, his proud humility, and his flowery speeches make Mr. Collins a truly farcical figure.

Lady Catherine takes on some significance later in the novel, for she is Darcys aunt. It is speculated that Darcy
will marry her daughter.

CHAPTER 15

Summary
As a rector, Mr. Collins has a sufficient income and a good house. He visits Longbourn with the purpose of
choosing one of the Bennet girls as a wife, "if he found them as handsome and amiable as they were represented
by common report". Janes lovely face attracts him, and she seems to be his "settled choice". Mrs. Bennet,
however, makes it clear that Janes affections are pledged elsewhere. Mr. Collins then turns his attention to
Elizabeth.

The sisters walk into Meryton, accompanied by Mr. Collins. They meet Mr. Denny, an officer, who introduces
them to his colleague Mr. Wickham. He is a young man with a fine countenance and a good figure. The group
encounters Bingley and Darcy, who are riding down the street on their way to Longbourn to inquire after Janes
health. Darcy and Wickham seem flustered on seeing each other, exchanging a strange look. Darcy and Bingley
ride on while Denny and Wickham escort the girls and Mr. Collins to Mrs. Philips house. Mrs. Philips
promises to invite Wickham and the girls to dinner the next evening, which thrills the girls. On returning to
Longbourn, Mr. Collins lavishes exaggerated praise on Mrs. Philips excellent manners and hospitality.

Notes
"Mr. Collins was not a sensible man". This statement by the author sets a factual seal on the opinion voiced
earlier by Elizabeth and her father. The subsequent actions of Mr. Collins only confirm this view.

There is a marked change in Mrs. Bennets attitude towards Mr. Collins. It progresses from hostility to
deference, as his position changes from the eventual inheritor of Longbourn to an available suitor for her
daughter. At first Mrs. Bennet loathes him as the person who is going to snatch their property. When he makes
it known that he is interested in marrying one of the Bennet girls, she warms to him, and "the man, whom she
could not bear to speak of the day before, was now high in her good graces". She realizes that if one of her
daughters marries Collins, Longbourn will remain in the immediate family. She and her daughters will not have
to be displaced.

The appearance of Wickham is crucial for two reasons. First, he serves as a contrast to Darcy; and secondly, he
is an important character in the working later working out of the plot. The accidental meeting of Darcy and
Wickham is very dramatic, and Elizabeth immediately senses that something is wrong between the two. Her
insight is, however, obstructed by her prejudice, and she is not able to see through Wickham and accepts all his
accusations against Darcy at face value.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: CRITICAL ANALYSIS

CHAPTER 16

Summary
The following evening, the Bennet girls, Mr. Collins, and Wickham assemble at Mrs. Philips house. Collins
finds an earnest listener in Mrs. Philips and rambles on about Lady Catherine and her grandiose mansion.

Wickham seats himself next to Elizabeth, and the two start conversing. Wickham tells her that he has been
connected to Darcys family from infancy. Darcys late father, an excellent man, had bequeathed him a good
part of his estate, but Darcy had treated him scandalously. Disregarding his fathers wishes, he gave away
Wickhams share to someone else. This act of backstabbing, Wickham says, compelled him to join the army,
although he was brought up to take a role in the Church. When Elizabeth asks Wickham about Darcys sister, he
replies that she is as proud as Darcy; she is now sixteen years old and is highly accomplished. He also reveals
that Lady Catherine is Darcys aunt, and it is believed that Darcy will marry her daughter and, thereby, unite the
two estates. Elizabeth returns home with her mind full of Wickham and what he has told her. She wonders how
a sweet-tempered man like Bingley could take for a friend a disagreeable man like Darcy.

Notes
This chapter diversifies the plot. Wickham blackens Darcys character by giving Elizabeth a distorted account
of what took place between himself and Darcy over the estate of Darcys father. Elizabeth, who is already
prejudiced against Darcy, readily accepts Wickhams account as truth, overlooking a fundamental discrepancy
between what Wickham asserts and what he does. Wickham says that he does not intend to cast aspersions on
Darcys character, but that is exactly what happens. Wickham also talks at length about Darcys pride. Elizabeth
agrees with Wickhams assessment, oblivious to her own prejudice that dwarfs her vision. The irony of the
situation is that Darcys pride is a catalyst for prejudice, which, in turn, causes a chain-reaction. Wickhams
prejudiced account of Darcys prejudice against him, prejudices Elizabeth even more against Darcy, who seems
to be prejudiced against everyone! Elizabeth and Darcy must work through a depth of pride and prejudice
before their relationship can develop.

CHAPTER 17
Summary

Elizabeth discloses to Jane everything that she has learned from Wickham. Jane wisely says that there are two
sides to every story.

A ball is announced at Netherfield, and Mr. Bingley and his sisters call on the Bennets to issue an invitation.
Mr. Collins asks Elizabeth for the first two dances. Elizabeth accepts grudgingly, for she had hoped to dance
with Wickham. For the next few days, the girls are confined indoors because of the rains, but they eagerly await
the Netherfield ball.

Notes
This chapter points out a contrast between the two oldest Bennet sisters. Jane is hesitant to believe Wickhams
account about Darcy; she always sees the good in a person and wants to give the benefit of the doubt. Elizabeth,
on the other hand, accepts Wickhams story as fact, largely because she is already prejudiced against Darcy.
Although Elizabeth is usually more insightful of people than her sister, in this case she is totally blinded. She
judges Darcy as unacceptable and finds Wickham acceptable, hoping to dance with him at the ball.

The excitement and eager preparations of the girls for the Netherfield ball serve to stress the importance of
social gatherings in the microcosmic world the village gentry inhabit.

CHAPTER 18

Summary
On the night of the ball, Elizabeth is despondent because Wickham is not present. Mr. Denny informs her that
Wickham has been called to town. Elizabeth, however, suspects that he has chosen not to attend in order to
avoid Darcy. She, therefore, decides to ignore Darcy. When she is compelled to dance with Darcy later in the
evening, Elizabeth deliberately mentions Wickham. Darcy is disconcerted and speaks in a constrained manner.
Elizabeth verbally attacks him, but Darcy remains quiet.

Miss Bingley speaks disdainfully about Wickham and advises Elizabeth not to believe his false story about
Darcy. She criticizes Wickham, stating he is the son of a dependent of Darcys house. Elizabeth is put off by
Miss Bingley and seeks her elder sister. Jane informs her that she has spoken to Mr. Bingley about Wickham.
Bingley is ignorant about the facts surrounding the inheritance left by Darcys father, but he vouches for
Darcys stainless reputation.

Mr. Collins sticks to Elizabeth throughout the evening and refuses to be introduced to any other lady, totally
exasperating Elizabeth. He is ecstatic to learn that Darcy is Lady Catherines nephew. Elizabeth watches him
speak gushingly to Darcy, who responds to him with an air of distant civility. During supper, Mrs. Bennet
speaks profusely to Lady Lucas of her expectation that Mr. Bingley will soon marry Jane. Mr. Darcy overhears
them, and Elizabeth tries vainly to check her mothers unrestrained confidences. After supper, Mary tries to
entertain the party by singing. She has a faltering voice, and her manner is pretentious. Elizabeth, who is already
embarrassed by her mothers indiscreet behavior, is further mortified by her sisters attempts at singing.
Thankfully, Mr. Bennet catches Elizabeths agonizing glances and bids Mary to let the other ladies sing. Mr.
Collins then gives a pompous and contrived speech, which adds to the disasters of the evening.
Notes
The confrontation between Darcy and Elizabeth once again highlights Elizabeths prejudice. She is resolved not
to be drawn into conversation with Darcy, but his proposal to dance takes her so much by surprise that she
agrees to it. During the dance, they are initially very silent. Elizabeth finally forces a conversation which rattles
with ironic dissonance. Elizabeth, hinting that she is referring to Wickham, asks Darcy if he ever reverses his
judgement about the character of a person. She then remarks that "it is particularly incumbent on those who
never change their opinion, to be secure of judging properly at first." The irony of her words is obvious, for she
has misjudged Darcy.

Although Elizabeth is prejudiced against Darcy, she is intrigued by his character, which she views as complex;
he is very unlike Bingley, who is more simple and easy to understand. Darcy is equally intrigued with Elizabeth
and worries about her judging him incorrectly; but social decorum prevents him from openly contradicting her
or telling her the truth about Wickham. It is ironic that Elizabeth fails to notice the difference between Darcy
and Wickham. Wickham never misses a chance to besmirch Darcy, but Darcy is too much of a gentleman to say
a word against Wickham.

The hierarchical structure of old English society and the snobberies of rank are evident in this chapter.
Elizabeths family appears gauche and unacceptable among the high-brow Bingleys and their friends. Mary
Bennet embarrasses her sister and bores the company by her endless singing. Mrs. Bennet speaks loudly and
rudely about Darcy when he is within earshot; she also loudly confides in Lady Lucas about her speculation that
Bingley will soon marry Jane. Both Darcy and Bingley are repulsed by the vulgar Mrs. Bennet and her younger
daughters. Elizabeth is aware of her familys disgraceful demeanor, but fails to comprehend how this will later
jeopardize Janes chances with Bingley,

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CHAPTER 19

Summary
The day after the ball, Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth, who wastes no time in declining the offer. Mr. Collins,
undeterred by Elizabeths rejection, replies that it is usual for young ladies to initially turn down a proposal for
marriage. He believes that Elizabeth really wants to accept and intends to do so in the end; as a result, he repeats
his proposal. Elizabeth declines again, refuting his arguments. Mr. Collins, however, is blinded by conceit and
does not realize that the lady is truly not interested in him. Elizabeth decides she will seek her fathers help if
this vulgar suitor continues to believe her repeated refusals are really "flattering encouragement".
Notes
Mr. Collins proposal to Elizabeth is outrageously comic. It is worded as pompously and as absurdly as one
would expect from this foolish man. When she quickly refuses his offer, he brushes her refusal off, saying it
"the usual practice of elegant females". In his conceit, he is convinced that she says no only to encourage him to
propose again, which is exactly what he does. The entire scene if amusing to the reader and frustrating to
Elizabeth. It is important to note, however, that this is the first marriage proposal of many in the novel.

CHAPTER 20

Summary
Soon after Elizabeth leaves the room, Mrs. Bennet enters and congratulates Collins on the most happy prospect
of his becoming her son-in-law. Mr. Collins accepts her good wishes and gives her the particulars of what has
happened with Elizabeth. He explains his belief that Elizabeths refusal stems from her "bashful modesty and
the genuine delicacy of her character". Mrs. Bennet, who knows her outspoken daughter very well, does believe
that her denial is meant as shy encouragement. She explains to Mr. Collins that Elizabeth is headstrong and
foolish, but assures him that her daughter will be brought to reason. When Collins hears Mrs. Bennets
assessment of Elizabeths personality, he doubts whether he has chosen the correct daughter and voices his
concern. A flustered Mrs. Bennet, who sees a marriage opportunity slipping away, contradicts her prior
statements about Elizabeth. She then hurries to tell her husband, asking him to advise Elizabeth to accept Mr.
Collins proposal. Mr. Bennet tells Elizabeth that her mother will never see her face again if she does not marry
Collins, but at the same time, he will not see her face again if she does marry Collins.

Mr. Collins pride is finally hurt by Elizabeths refusal. He has truly wanted to find an amiable companion
among the Bennet daughters and convinced himself that a marriage to one of them would be an advantage to all
the Bennet family. He says he is sorry that he is misunderstood and apologizes if he has been rude in any way.

Notes
Mrs. Bennet is upset with Elizabeths refusal to marry Collins and promises him that she will bring her daughter
to reason about the marriage. As always, she is anxious to have all her daughters married, especially the older
ones. She does not care that Mr. Collins is foolish and an unsuitable husband, especially since Elizabeth is not
her favorite child. It should be remembered that she told Mr. Collins that Jane was unavailable to him, for she
hopes for better things for her and believes that she will marry Bingley. On the other hand, Mr. Bennet fully
understands and agrees with Elizabeths refusal. He humorously states that if she had married Collins, he would
disown her.

Mr. Collins resignation to Elizabeths rejection, inevitable evils as he calls it, is as pompously worded as his
proposal. Although Mr. Collins assumes a resentful silence after his rejection, he does not shorten his visit.

CHAPTER 21

Summary
The next day the girls meet Mr. Wickham in Meryton. He tells Elizabeth that his absence from the Netherfield
ball was self-imposed, for he wished to avoid an ugly scene with Darcy. After the girls return home, Jane
receives a letter from Caroline Bingley; she informs her that everyone is leaving Netherfield, and they are
unlikely to return that winter. Caroline also hints that her brother admires Darcys sister and that she hopes that
they will be married. Jane is crestfallen over the news in the letter, but her dashed hopes are lifted by Elizabeth,
who says that Miss Bingley simply wishes to keep her brother away from Jane.

Notes
Wickham meets Elizabeth again and tells her that he stayed away from the ball to avoid a scene with Darcy.
Elizabeth is full of sympathy for him and fails to realize that Wickham has earlier mentioned that he would
never intentionally avoid Darcy; she is unable to see the falseness of his character.

A twist in the plot is provided by Caroline Bingleys letter, which informs the Bennets that the whole family is
leaving Netherfield and will not return that winter. The departure is a definite setback to Mrs. Bennets match-
making; it also upsets Jane. Elizabeth is puzzled by the abrupt departure and rightly suspects that it has been
maneuvered by the Bingley sisters.

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CHAPTER 22

Summary
Elizabeth is grateful that Charlotte entertains Mr. Collins, which keeps him in a good humor and away from her.
Elizabeth assumes she is simply being kind to Mr. Collins and the Bennets; in truth, Charlotte, who greatly fears
being a spinster, is interested in Mr. Collins as a husband for herself. She does not care if her husband is foolish
and vain, as long as she has a husband; she has no romantic ideas that marriage must be based on love. She tells
Elizabeth, "I am not romantic you know. . . I only ask for a comfortable home."

Charlottes attention to Mr. Collins pays off for her. In his characteristic garrulous way, he proposes to her and
tells her to set the day of the wedding. Sir William Lucas and his wife are delighted with the match, but
Elizabeth is horrified when she learns that her friend has consented to marry the detestable man.

Notes
Elizabeth is appalled by Charlottes decision to marry the foolish Mr. Collins. She does not understand the
depth of fear that Charlotte has possessed about being a spinster and her willingness to compromise to find a
husband; marriage to Charlotte is little more than an economic arrangement. Jane Austen, as a sensitive female
novelist, tried to expose the plight of women trapped in a mans world, where the culmination of womanhood
lies solely in matrimony and motherhood. In addition, a single woman had few means of providing an income
for herself; as a result, the spinster was usually destined for a life of poverty, which is what Charlotte is trying to
avoid and what Mrs. Bennett fears for her unmarried daughters.

CHAPTER 23

Summary
Sir William Lucas arrives at the Bennets to announce the engagement of his daughter to Mr. Collins. Mrs.
Bennet is dumbfounded and extremely disgruntled by the news. A week elapses before she can see Elizabeth
without scolding her for refusing Mr. Collins proposal, and a month passes before she can speak to the Lucas
family with civility.

Disappointed in her good friend Charlotte, Elizabeth spends more time with Jane. She grows increasingly
anxious about her sister since there is no news of Bingley. Jane is also dejected over not hearing from him, but
she retains her composure.

A week later, Mr. Collins arrives at Longbourn and receives a cold, indifferent welcome from the disappointed
Mrs. Bennet. She complains to her husband that "it was very strange that he (Mr. Collins) should come to
Longbourn instead of Lucas Lodge; it was also very inconvenient and exceedingly troublesome". Even though
he is staying with the Bennets, Mr. Collins spends the larger part of his time at Lucas Lodge.

Mrs. Bennet is in a terrible state, weighed down by the twin tragedy of Mr. Bingleys sudden disappearance and
Mr. Collins engagement to Miss Lucas. The sight of Lucas is particularly abhorrent to her, for Mrs. Bennet can
only think about her being the future mistress of Longbourn.

Notes
The marriage of Mr. Collins and Charlotte is proudly announced by her family. Lady Lucas gleeful strutting
and Mrs. Bennets sadness shed light on the competitive nature of the marriage-market, where even a man like
Mr. Collins is considered a worthy catch by the mothers. It is important to note Mrs. Bennets fickle attitude
about Collins. She has now reverted to her previous attitude of hatred towards him, jealously viewing him as the
inheritor of Longbourn rather than as an eligible and acceptable suitor for her daughter.

It is to be noted that Charlottes marriage to Collins is vital to the plot, for it allows Elizabeth to visit her later
and gives her the chance to again meet Darcy.

CHAPTER 24

Summary
Miss Bingleys reply to Janes letter arrives and indicates that they are all settled in London for the winter. Most
of the letter cruelly speaks of Miss Darcy and her many attractions. Caroline also boasts about the growing
intimacy between her and her brother Bingley, who is residing with Darcy. Elizabeth still feels that Bingley is
being influenced by his sisters, who want to destroy his admiration for Jane. She criticizes Bingley for being so
easily swayed and manipulated, but Jane will not listen to any criticism of Bingley, Caroline, or Mrs. Hurst.

After the arrival of Carolines letter, the mood at Longbourn is somber. Mr. Wickhams frequent visits seem to
alleviate some of the gloom. The entire Bennet family is told about Darcys alleged treatment of Wickham, and
everyone accepts his account as factual. Even Jane condemns Darcy; but she still believes there may be
extenuating circumstances that are unknown to them.

Notes
It is obvious that Caroline Bingley is being intentionally cruel in her letter and is trying to encourage a
relationship between Miss Darcy and her brother. She definitely does not want to see Bingley in love with a
Bennet girl. Elizabeth believes the Bingley is being manipulated, and she criticizes him for not standing up to
his sisters. Bingley comes across as a lukewarm character, radically contrary to his assertive friend, Darcy.

Wickhams visits at the Bennets become more frequent, and the whole family, especially Elizabeth, is attracted
to his jovial and friendly manner. Since Darcy is away in London, Wickham sees no danger of his story being
contradicted, so he openly shares it with everyone in the Bennet household. They all accept the story as truth,
and even Jane is swayed in her opinion.

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CHAPTER 25

Summary
Mrs. Bennets brother and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, come to spend Christmas at Longbourn. Mr.
Gardiner is a sensible, gentlemanly person, and his wife is an amiable, elegant woman who is very fond of her
nieces, especially the elder two. Mrs. Bennet airs her grievances to her sister-in-law, stating her distress over her
failure to get Jane and Elizabeth engaged or married. Mrs. Gardiner suggests a change of scene for Jane to help
get over her disappointment over Bingley. It is decided that Jane will return to London with her uncle and aunt.

While the Gardiners spend the week at Longbourn, there are frequent visitors; Wickham is the most regular one.
Mrs. Gardiner views with suspicion Elizabeths attraction to Wickham. Mrs. Gardiner has spent a considerable
time in Derbyshire and knows the area from where Wickham comes. They have mutual acquaintances there,
and Wickham is able to update her with information.
Mrs. Gardiner talks of the Darcy family. She has seen Pemberley, the Darcy estate, which is very impressive.
She also speaks very highly of the late Mr. Darcy. She has a vague recollection that his son, Fitzwilliam Darcy,
is a very proud, ill-natured young man. This reconfirms Elizabeths opinion of him.

Notes

The Gardiners are essential to the plot because they later serve as a point of contact between Darcy and the
Bennets. The Gardiner couple is also an intentional contrast to Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. The Gardiners are
sensitive, kind, refined, and immensely superior to the Bennet couple. Mrs. Gardiner has a genuine interest in
her nieces and seems to be more sensitive about their needs than their own mother. In contrast, the Bennets are
unrefined and socially unacceptable. They are not compatible with one another, and they are not very
responsible parents. Mr. Bennet is very aloof and comes out of his shell mostly to poke fun at his wifes
foolishness. Mrs. Bennet is vulgar and has no understanding of anyone, particularly her daughters.

The Gardiners are also radically different from Mr. and Mrs. Philips. The Gardiners give the girls sound advice
and watch out for their well-being; later in the novel, Mr. Gardiner tries harder than Mr. Bennet to find Lydia.
By contrast, the Phillips couple fills the silly minds of Lydia and Kitty with tales of the red-coat officers and
encourages their waywardness.

CHAPTER 26

Summary
Mrs. Gardiner cautions Elizabeth against falling in love with Wickham, who lacks wealth. Elizabeth denies that
she is in love with him, but admits he is the most agreeable man she has ever come across. She promises her
aunt that even if she is tempted at a later stage, she will not do anything in a hurry. Soon after the departure of
the Gardiners and Jane, Mr. Collins returns to Hertfordshire. The wedding takes place on a Thursday and Mr.
Collins and his bride leave for Kent immediately after the ceremony. Charlotte has extracted a promise from
Elizabeth that she will visit them in March.

Janes letter arrives stating that she has arrived safely in London. Jane has written to Caroline Bingley, but has
received no reply from her. Jane naively rationalizes that her letter must not have reached Caroline. When Jane
visits Miss Bingley, her welcome is lukewarm; she says that she did not receive Janes letter. Caroline Bingley
does not return Janes visit for four weeks; when she calls, her stay is short and brusque. Jane begins to
understand that Caroline does not really care for her and writes to Elizabeth about it.

Wickham relocates his affections from Elizabeth to a Miss King, who has just inherited ten thousand pounds.
Elizabeth writes to her aunt that she is not in love with Wickham and feels only cordiality towards him.

Notes
Mrs. Gardiners advice to Elizabeth against falling in love with Wickham underlines her sagacity and
accentuates the fact that in marriage, money is almost as important as love. Mrs. Gardiner is not aware of
Wickhams shady past, but she has a problem with his lack of wealth and wisely gives her niece advice not to
marry him.
It is paradoxical that Elizabeth should regard the phony Wickham as "the most agreeable man" and Darcy as
"the most disagreeable man". Her incorrect judgement stems from her prejudice, which colors all of her
thinking.

Caroline Bingleys snobbery becomes more apparent to the nave and accepting Jane, who finally realizes that
the woman does not care for her. She writes to Elizabeth with the news.

CHAPTER 27

Summary
In March, Elizabeth accompanies the Lucases to London, for she is eager see Jane. They are to spend the night
at the Gardiners, where Jane eagerly awaits her sister. Mrs. Gardiner confides in Elizabeth that although Jane
still has periods of utter dejection even though she tries to be cheerful. Mrs. Gardiner compliments Elizabeth on
bearing Wickhams new attachment to Miss King with grace. Elizabeth thoroughly enjoys her stay with the
Gardiners. She readily accepts their invitation to accompany them on their summer vacation.

Notes
Mrs. Gardiner is a substitute mother for both Jane and Elizabeth; she gives her nieces understanding and
friendship, which is missing in the relationship with their mother. The aunt, unlike Mrs. Bennett, is sensitive to
Janes suffering and gently cares for her niece. She also gives Elizabeth wise advice about Wickham and praises
her for behaving nobly when he deserts her.

Once again, the importance of money in marriage is highlighted in Elizabeths remark, "What is the difference
in matrimonial affairs, between mercenary and the prudent motive? Where does discretion end and avarice
begin?"

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CHAPTER 28

Summary
Elizabeth and the Lucases go to Huntsford. They meet Charlotte and Mr. Collins at the parsonage, which
adjoins Lady Catherines estate, Rosings Park. Elizabeth is warmly welcomed by her girlfriend, who has not
changed. She is content with marriage and has learned to gracefully bear her peculiar husband. Mr. Collins is as
vainglorious and cumbersome as ever.
The next morning, Maria Lucas enthusiastically points out to Elizabeth two ladies who have arrived at the
garden gate. One of them is Miss de Bourgh, a thin, pale, cross-looking maiden; Elizabeth thinks that she would
make an ideal wife for proud Darcy. After the guests depart, Mr. Collins says that everyone has been invited to
dine at Rosings the next day.

Notes
Elizabeths arrival at the parsonage gives her allows her to see the marital life of a mismatched couple. Mr.
Collins, proud and bothersome as always, is oblivious to the needs and concerns of his wife. Charlotte,
however, has adapted well to her compromise marriage and tries to make the best of things. She has learned to
ignore her husbands shameful behavior and rude statements. On the whole, Charlotte tries to make the best of
the bargain she has made for herself in marriage. Elizabeth is awed by Charlottes adaptability, self-restraint,
and capacity for contentment.

Mr. Collins makes a gaudy display of his house, trying to rub it into Elizabeth what she has missed by turning
down his proposal to her. Ironically, this makes Elizabeth even more glad that she refused him.

CHAPTER 29

Summary
Mr. Collins is ecstatic over the invitation to Rosings, for he wants to display "the grandeur of his patroness to
his wandering visitors" and to show "her civility towards himself and his wife." He spends hours instructing the
guests on what they are to expect and how they are to behave at Lady Catherines.

The company arrives at Rosings. They are greeted by Lady Catherine with an air of condescension designed
"not to make her visitors forget their inferior rank." Lady Catherine is a tall, large woman who speaks in an
authoritative tone. Her daughter is a sickly, diminutive creature who speaks in a muffled voice, but only to Mrs.
Jenkinson, who fusses over her comforts.

Mr. Collins raves about the delicious and exotic dinner; Lady Catherine seems gratified from this overdose of
praise. After dinner, Lady Catherine advises Charlotte on how to manage her house, her cows, and her poultry.
Elizabeth is shocked at how the woman delights in dictating to others. She is also shocked by Lady Catherines
many personal questions to her about her family; Elizabeth considers them interfering and impertinent and
answers in a manner that surprises the smug Lady Catherine. After several games of cards, Lady Catherine
indicates that the evening is over. Mr. Collins is eager to know Elizabeths opinion about Lady Catherine and
Rosings. For Charlottes sake, she says the evening and the hostess have been pleasant.

Notes
Mr. Collins, Lady Catherine, and her daughter are all unlikable characters. Collins grovels before his snooty
neighbor in a pathetic manner. Lady Catherine eats up his compliments and is rude to Charlotte and Elizabeth,
showing that she is heartless and domineering. Her daughter is a diminutive, wispy girl who needs to be
continually fussed over; if she were to marry Darcy, it would be a total mismatch.
Lady Catherine lives in an ivory tower and occasionally stoops from her gilded chair to entertain "social
inferiors," such as Collins, Charlotte, and Elizabeth. When the party arrives, she clearly indicates to them that
she feels herself superior. During dinner, she tells Charlotte how to run her life and asks Elizabeth rude,
personal questions about her family.

It is to be noted that Elizabeth is the only person who is not intimidated by Rosings Park and its monarch. She
dares to answer Lady Catherines questions in a way as to put her in her place, which adds to the humor of this
chapter. Elizabeth shows once again that she is an independent woman who is not afraid to overstep social
conventions and assert her free-will.

CHAPTER 30

Summary
Sir William returns home after a week, but Elizabeth and Maria stay on with the Collins. Elizabeth has another
opportunity to observe the overbearing ways of Lady Catherine. Whenever she hears about any of the
parishioners being quarrelsome or complaining, she goes forth to settle their differences, silence their
complaints, and scold them into harmony.

With the approach of Easter, Mr. Darcy arrives at Rosings with his cousin Colonel Fitzwilliam. When they call
at the parsonage, Darcy is surprised to find Elizabeth; out of politeness, he asks about her family, and Elizabeth
tells him that Jane is in London. Darcy, looking baffled, says that he has not been fortunate enough to meet her
there. The visitors soon return to Rosings.

Notes
Lady Catherine, always smug and superior, tries to rule the simple rural parishioners. Her chastisement of erring
villagers springs from her deep-seated self-importance rather than any genuine concern for them. It is this self-
important air that makes her an amusing character. In spite of her over-inflated opinion of herself, Lady
Catherine has little influence on the characters in the book. In fact, nothing of what she wishes ever happens.
Ironically, she is useful to the plot only in getting Darcy and Elizabeth together in her attempts to keep them
apart.

Colonel Fitzwilliam is a contrast to Darcy. His easy-going, smooth social nature allows him to immediately like
Elizabeth and become friends with her. In contrast, Darcys pride and his reserve make him awkward in
Elizabeths presence.

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CHAPTER 31

Summary
Colonel Fitzwilliam is about thirty years old and, though he is not very handsome, his manners make him
popular. A week after the arrival of her nephews, Lady Catherine condescends to invite Mr. Collins guests to
a party at Rosings on Sunday evening. Colonel Fitzwilliam is attracted to Elizabeth and converses with her
animatedly. The mutually engrossed couple draws the attention of Darcy and Lady Catherine. The latter has no
qualms about rudely interrupting their conversation, calling out questions to them. Fitzwilliam asks Elizabeth to
play the piano, and she agrees; Lady Catherine, however, rudely continues to talk while Elizabeth is performing.
Disgusted by his aunts churlish manner, Darcy stands by the piano to pay attention to Elizabeth. During the
evening, Elizabeth cannot see any signs of love between Darcy and Miss de Borough.

Notes

Darcy seems a little jealous of the fact that his cousin and Elizabeth are engrossed in conversation. He is also
horrified at his aunts rude behavior. Lady Catherine continuously interrupts Colonel Fitzwilliam and
Elizabeths conversation. She insults Elizabeth by suggesting that she should practice the piano more often and
by saying she is free to use the servants room, where she "will not be in the way". Lady Catherines crude
behavior embarrasses Darcy, just as Mrs. Bennets oafish behavior often embarrasses Elizabeth. Lady
Catherines loud talking while Elizabeth is playing the piano totally exasperates Darcy. When he stands by the
piano in order to hear better, Elizabeth accuses him of trying to unsettle her. In this scene, as in many others,
Elizabeth misunderstands Darcy.

CHAPTER 32

Summary
Since the rest of the party has gone out, the next morning Elizabeth sits alone, writing a letter to Jane. Darcy
suddenly walks in. Both of them are at loss for words, but Elizabeth finally asks about the abrupt departure of
the Bingleys from Netherfield. Darcy does not say much, but he tells her that Bingley may dispose of
Netherfield. Their conversation is interrupted by the entry of Charlotte and her sister. After Darcy departs,
Charlotte tells Elizabeth of her notion that Darcy is in love with her. Elizabeth laughs at the suggestion. Darcy
and Fitzwilliam begin to often come to the parsonage. Although Darcy usually says little, Charlotte notices that
he often looks at Elizabeth.

Notes
Darcys frequent visits to the parsonage and his awkward reticent manner suggest that he is in love with
Elizabeth; Elizabeth, however, is as blind to his affection as she is to his goodness. Even when Charlotte
suggests Darcys love, Elizabeth only laughs at the notion.

The contrast between Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy is further portrayed. Fitzwilliam, with his informed mind,
is nothing more than a superior version of Wickham. Ironically, Elizabeth judges him to be a superior person to
Darcy.
CHAPTER 33

Summary
Elizabeth, rambling in the park, often meets Darcy unexpectedly. On these occasions, he walks with her and
asks odd questions about her likes and dislikes. Once she meets Fitzwilliam while she is strolling, and they
speak of Darcy. Fitzwilliam tells her that recently Darcy has saved a friend from an unwise marriage, and he
suspects this friend to be Bingley. Elizabeth is pained over hearing the news. She is furious with Darcy for
ruining her sisters life. She later feigns a headache so she will not have to accompany the others to Rosings;
angry with Darcy for his interference in Janes life, she does not want to see him.

Notes
When she strolls in the park, Elizabeth sometimes encounters Fitzwilliam or Darcy, who walk with her. It is
obvious that Fitzwilliam adores Elizabeth; but he cannot contemplate marrying her, for as the younger son, he
has neither wealth nor property to offer.

The mystery of Bingleys abrupt departure from Netherfield is solved. Colonel Fitzwilliam unknowingly tells
Elizabeth that Darcy has stopped a friend, probably Bingley, from an unwise marriage. Elizabeth is agitated
over the news and hates Darcy as never before for meddling in Jane's life. It is a part of Austens dramatic
stratagem that Darcys proposal should follow immediately after this revelation.

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CHAPTER 34

Summary
When the Company leaves, Elizabeth begins to reread Janes letters. Suddenly Darcy comes back in. After
making perfunctory inquiries about her health, he declares his love for Elizabeth, who is thunderstruck and
mute. Darcy speaks a good deal about his pride and makes Jane feel she is socially inferior to him. He acts like
his proposal to her is a divine honor, which Elizabeth cannot turn down. Elizabeth, furious over his superior
attitude, spares no words in refusing him. She accuses Darcy of separating Jane and Bingley, of treating
Wickham horribly, and of acting in an arrogant manner. Darcy accepts these accusations without apology, but it
hurts him when she says that his demeanor is not gentlemanly. When Darcy leaves the house, Elizabeth is so
flustered great that she breaks into tears.
Notes
This chapter presents a new complication in the plot, for Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, who promptly turns him
down. It must be noted that the normally calm and composed Darcy seems flustered, behaving in a theatrical
fashion. It is ironic that Darcys proposal is the second one that Elizabeth has received, and both are
condescending rather that romantic in nature. Both men have felt that it was Elizabeths privilege to marry
them; also, both were certain that Elizabeth would accept their proposal. Her refusal surprises both men.

If Darcy had worded his proposal in a romantic way, emphasizing his love, Elizabeth would have reacted
differently. As it stands, Elizabeth can only attack him. She accuses Darcy of ruining her sisters chances with
Bingley and of upsetting Wickham. Darcy does not understand what Elizabeth means and finds himself at a loss
of words. When Elizabeth accuses him of ungentlemanly conduct, Darcy has heard enough, for he greatly
prides himself on "his stately bearing,"

What stands in the way of Darcy and Elizabeth getting together at this point in the novel is "pride and
prejudice." Darcys pride makes him act in a superior way when he proposes; he indicates that he makes the
offer in spite of her inferior social position and her vulgar family. Elizabeths previously established prejudice
against Darcy is intensified; she does not even contemplate marrying such an arrogant man.

In an ironic inversion, Darcy accuses Elizabeth of being too proud, while Elizabeth accuses him of being
prejudiced. She tells Darcy that he has a propensity to hate people and has shown his prejudice against
Wickham and Jane (and everyone else who comes in his way). The truth is that both characters are guilty of
pride and prejudice.

CHAPTER 35

Summary
The next morning Elizabeth is walking by the park gates when she is confronted by Darcy, who thrusts a letter
in her hand and leaves. The letter, contrary to her expectations, does not renew his marriage proposal. Instead,
Darcy admits that he persuaded Bingley to give up Jane, for he had the impression that Jane did not really love
Bingley. Darcy now realizes his mistake; however, he still feels the Bennet family, especially the mother, is ill
suited to become the in-laws of a man of Bingleys caliber. Darcy also apologizes for keeping Janes presence
in London a secret from Bingley.

In regard to Wickham, Darcy informs Elizabeth that his own father, who employed Wickhams dad, had given
Wickham 3,000 to aid him in studying law. Unfortunately, Wickham squandered the money in idle living;
quickly exhausting the funds, Wickham demanded more money. When rebuffed by Darcy, Wickham tried to get
back at Darcy by attempting to elope with Darcys young sister, which Darcy was able to foil. Darcy ends the
letter by asserting the veracity of his statements, which Colonel Fitzwilliam can certify. Darcy closes the letter
with "God bless you."

Notes
The letter that Darcy thrusts into Elizabeths hand is the most important letter in the book. As Darcy tries to
defend himself in the letter, he clears up several unanswered questions.
It is important to note the style of Darcys letter. Like Darcy himself, the language of the letter is direct,
straightforward, precise, proud, and, above all, faithful to his convictions. In fact, Darcys tersely worded letter
reads like a legal manuscript; it is a sharp contrast to Mr. Collins first letter to Mr. Bennet, which was full of
flowery language and formal addresses.

Elizabeths aggressive behavior has forced Darcy to defend himself. In the letter, he elucidates his role in the
Jane-Bingley matter and exposes Wickhams treachery. The reader now understands why Darcy, at various
moments in the novel, has been hesitant to divulge the truth about Wickham. Since the man misled his young
sister, Darcy could not explain his treatment of Wickham without bringing his dear sister into the picture.

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CHAPTER 36

Summary
At first, Elizabeth finds the contents of Darcys letter incredulous, but soon the veracity of it dawns on her as
she recalls the unscrupulous way in which Wickham has floated tales about Darcy and the purely mercenary
attachment he has formed with Miss King. She chides herself for being so wretchedly blind to Wickhams
faults, which she believes she failed to discern because of her vanity. Although she cannot accept that Jane was
ever insensitive to Bingley, Elizabeth concedes to the critical statements Darcy has made about her parents.
When Elizabeth returns to the parsonage from the park, she learns that Darcy and Fitzwilliam will be leaving
Rosings.

Notes
Darcys letter evokes confusing responses from Elizabeth. Initially, she reads the letter "with a strong prejudice
against everything he might say;" she has trouble accepting any of it as truth. Then gradually she realizes that
Darcy has spoken correctly of Fitzwilliam and her parents. She cannot accept, however, that Jane has been
insensitive to Bingley.

As pointed out earlier, Darcys letter reads like a legal manuscript, and Elizabeths manner in reading and
rereading it is akin to a legal process. After getting the drift of his letter, Elizabeth begins "reconsidering events,
determining probabilities, and reconciling herself as well." She studies Wickhams case, recalling the
discrepancies between Wickhams statement and his action. She remembers the crudeness of her mother and
father in front of Darcy. Finally, Elizabeth must admit the truth of Darcys accusations.

The most important result of the letter is that Elizabeth becomes aware of her prejudice. Earlier, she had
chided Jane for being blind, and now she understands her own blindness. She confesses, "Had I been in love, I
could not have been more wretchedly blind". She accepts the fairness of Darcys objections and why he kept
harping on the obstacles he had to overcome to propose to her.

CHAPTERS 37 - 38

Summary
The next morning, Darcy and Fitzwilliam leave Rosings. After Collins bids them farewell, he hurries to comfort
Lady Catherine and her daughter. Lady Catherine invites the company at the parsonage to dine with her. At the
dinner party, Lady Catherine is her domineering self, demanding that Elizabeth stay on for two months at the
parsonage.

Elizabeth and Maria plan to leave the parsonage, ending their six weeks visit. Mr. Collins harps on the
indebtedness they should feel towards his patroness and her daughter for their kindness. He also talks in
flattering terms about his own social position in order to emphasize Elizabeths loss in refusing him.

Elizabeth and Maria go to London, where they stay at the Gardiners house for a short while. They then return
to Longbourn with Jane. Elizabeth does not disclose Darcys proposal to Jane until they reach home.

Notes
The plot is moving towards its climax; therefore, all the characters must return to Hertfordshire, where the
action started and will end. Elizabeth and Jane return to Longbourn and will soon be followed by Darcy and
Bingley. Elizabeths state of mind is ambivalent. Although she has overcome her prejudice against Darcy, her
pride now stands in the way. It will take Darcys heroic salvaging of her family honor to humble Elizabeth.

CHAPTER 39

Summary
Kitty and Lydia wait at the village inn for their elder sisters. On their way back to Longbourn, they tell
anecdotes and jokes to Elizabeth and Jane. Lydia reveals that Miss King has gone to Liverpool to break free
from Wickham.

Elizabeth and Jane are warmly welcomed by their parents. Mrs. Bennet is pleased to see Jane is still so
beautiful, and Mr. Bennet more than once voices how glad he is to have his darling Lizzy back. Mrs. Bennet
and her younger daughters are aggrieved because the militia regiment is leaving for Brighton. Elizabeth is
relieved on hearing the news for two reasons. First, she does not want to see Wickham in her present agitated
state of mind; and secondly, she feels her sisters will not be so capricious with the soldiers gone.

Lydia has been invited to Brighton for the summer, and Mrs. Bennet and the younger girls want Mr. Bennet to
take the whole family there. Although Mr. Bennet has no intentions of doing this, his answers are vague and
equivocal.
Notes
Elizabeth returns home to find her younger sisters still crazy about red coat soldiers. Mrs. Bennet, as always, is
still an indulgent mother, giving in to every demand of her daughters, especially to Lydia. She is also still
obsessed with getting her daughters married.

Elizabeths decision not to disclose Wickhams true nature to her family has serious repercussions. First, it leads
to the Wickham-Lydia affair, which could have been prevented; and secondly, Darcy continues to be considered
an unjust man and is treated accordingly.

Lydia pleads to be granted permission to visit Brighton for the summer; Elizabeth begs her father not to let her
go. Mr. Bennet, however, is too irresponsible to put his foot down, a fact which makes him as responsible as his
wife for the familys sad state at affairs. Elizabeth is shocked by the behavior that she sees in her family and
realizes the truth Darcy has stated about the weak impression they make.

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CHAPTER 40

Summary
No longer able to restrain herself, Elizabeth tells Jane about Darcys proposal and her rejection of it; the kind-
hearted Jane feels sorry for Darcy. Elizabeth also tells about Darcys letter and explains about Wickham. Jane,
who is oblivious to the existence of wickedness in the world, finds it hard to understand Wickhams depravity.
Elizabeth does not tell Jane of Darcys influencing Bingley against her, for she knows her sister still has a
tender love for Bingley.

Mrs. Bennet continues her easy criticism. She calls Bingley an undeserving young man who has treated Jane
shabbily. She also makes barbed comments about the Collins.

Notes
Janes stay in London has restored her health, but has not ended her love for Bingley. As a result, Elizabeth is
very careful what she says to her sister. Elizabeths eagerness to confide in Jane shows the deep friendship
between the two. Although very close to each other, the two sisters are radically different in their temperaments.
Jane is a simple woman--uncomplicated, unintuitive, and full of undiscriminating goodness. Elizabeth is a
complex woman-- rational, intuitive, and judgmental. As a result, Jane has trouble understanding Wickhams
behavior and feels sorry for Darcy.

CHAPTER 41

Summary
There is an omnipresent gloom over Hertfordshire as the regiments stay in Meryton is coming to an end. Kitty
and Lydia are wretched, and their mother shares their grief. Elizabeth is ashamed of their behavior and realizes
again the truth of Darcys denunciations.

Elizabeth is worried about Lydias trip to Brighton with Mr. Foster; she is afraid that Lydia will behave in an
unguarded, flippant, flirtatious, and wayward manner, damaging her reputation and the reputation of the Bennet
family. Elizabeth, therefore, strongly advises her father not to allow Lydia to go; but her pleas fall on deaf ears.

On the regiments last day in Meryton, Wickham and some other officers dine at Longbourn. Elizabeth tells
Wickham that she has visited with Darcy and Fitzwilliam, which seems to alarm Wickham. He is also baffled
by Elizabeths sudden reversal of opinion about Darcy and says that Darcy is always on his best behavior when
he is staying with his aunt, Lady Catherine, whom he fears.

Notes
The gloom that pervades Hertfordshire over the regiments departure is a comment on the nature of life in
small, English country towns. The regiment has brought a breath of fresh air to their boring small-town
existence; their departure implies the return to boredom and a narrow cycle of routine life.

Mrs. Bennet identifies with the beautiful, brainless, and flirtatious Lydia; one can only assume she was exactly
like Lydia in her youth. Like Lydia, she grows sad when the regiment prepares to leave; she does not want to
return to boredom. She easily grants permission for Lydia to go to Brighton for summer vacation and even
suggests that Mr. Bennet take the rest of the family there for a while. Mr. Bennet has no intention of going to
Brighton; neither does he try to stop Lydia from going, in spite of Elizabeths warnings. Caught between an
over-indulgent mother and an uninvolved father, the Bennet girls are in a sad plight.

Elizabeth deliberately brings up Darcy in her conversation with Wickham; his discomfiture confirms to
Elizabeth the veracity of Darcys account. She is now beginning to understand the real Darcy, accepting him as
good rather than being prejudiced against him as evil. When Wickham questions her about her change of heart,
she remarks that Darcy "improves on acquaintance".

CHAPTER 42
Summary
It is summer at Longbourn; Lydia has gone to Brighton, and Mrs. Bennet and Kitty constantly complain of
boredom. Mr. Bennett, as always, stays aloof and uninvolved. Elizabeth, remembering the contents of Darcys
letter, is more bothered by her parents behavior than ever. She realizes they are totally mismatched and decides
she will not marry until she finds someone with whom she can have a proper and supportive relationship.

Unlike the bored Kitty and her mother, Elizabeth is eagerly awaiting her trip with the Gardiners. As she dreams
about the northern tour, she receives a letter explaining that the trip has to be shortened to only Derbyshire. She
is momentarily disappointed, for she has been looking forward to seeing the lake.

The Gardiners take Elizabeth to Lambton, where Mrs. Gardiner once resided. Pemberley, Darcys residence, is
situated about five miles away. Elizabeth is persuaded by her aunt and uncle to visit Pemberley, since the family
is away.

Notes
This chapter further presents the marital situation of the Bennets, which is a mismatched relationship between a
man of some intelligence and a simple and obnoxious woman; leading totally separate lives, there is little
affection or communication between them. Mrs. Bennet rules the household, and her husband stands by as a
spectator. Elizabeth now notices everything that is wrong with and between her mother and father. She promises
herself never to marry until she finds the right husband.

At first Elizabeth is disappointed that the Gardiners will not be taking her to the north, beyond Derbyshire. She
soon, however, accepts the idea and eagerly begins the journey. Her visit to Lambton with the Gardiners is vital
because it takes her to Pemberley, where she will see Darcy in a more favorable light.

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CHAPTER 43

Summary
As she arrives at Pemberley with the Gardiners, Elizabeth is thoroughly enchanted by the architecture and
surrounding natural beauty of the place. For a moment she thinks it would be pleasant to be the mistress of
Pemberley. They are greeted by the housekeeper, who shows them around; Elizabeth is impressed with all she
sees. She also listens carefully to the housekeeper who generously praises Darcy as a sweet-tempered and
benevolent young man. She claims he is an excellent landlord, unselfish, kind, and humane; she also explains
that he is a devoted brother to his sister. Elizabeth momentarily feels sorry for having rebuffed Darcy. Then she
thinks about his letter and his criticism of her low relations, which make her angry again.

The tour of the house is interrupted by the unexpected appearance of Darcy. Elizabeth is a bundle of nerves
because she does not want Darcy to think that she has thrown herself in his way. He, however, seems calm and
unaffected by her presence even though he speaks kindly to her. Elizabeth, after regaining her composure,
introduces Darcy to the Gardiners; she cannot suppress her pleasure in showing him that some members of her
family are intelligent and sensible. Darcy, showing no signs of his previous arrogance, is very cordial to the
Gardiners; he even invites Mr. Gardiner to fish in his stream. He then suggests that Elizabeth meet his sister.

The Gardiners find the charming Darcy far from being an insolent and disagreeable man; they tell Elizabeth that
they are amazed that he could have been cruel to Wickham. Without disclosing the source of her information,
Elizabeth exonerates Darcy by telling the truth that she has learned from Darcy. It is obvious that Elizabeth is
becoming less prejudiced. She spends the rest of the day thinking about Darcy and his sister, Georgiana.

Notes

Elizabeths visit to Pemberley is contrived by the author for several purposes. First, it creates a sense of wonder
in Elizabeth for Darcy. She finds everything about Pemberley - the architecture, the grounds, the furnishings, to
be lovely; she realizes that the home is a clear expression of Darcys taste and wealth. She is also struck by
Pemberleys grandeur and feels "that to be mistress of Pemberley might be something!" Elizabeth is becoming
less prejudiced! Secondly, at Pemberley, Elizabeth hears all kinds of good things about Darcy, which begin to
color her thinking. The housekeeper reveals that he is a kind and generous landlord, a devoted brother, and a
promising and unselfish young man. Elizabeth realizes that this is a very different picture of the arrogant man
that she has rejected. Thirdly, Elizabeths visit puts her into direct contact with Darcy again. The accidental
encounter embarrasses Elizabeth because she is aware of the "impropriety of her being found there". But, Darcy
puts her at ease and is very cordial with the Gardiners. Elizabeth is wonder-struck at his kind and gentlemanly
behavior. She is further impressed when her aunt and uncle, people of good sense, reveal that they really like
Darcy.

CHAPTERS 44 - 45

Summary
Darcy and his sister Georgiana call on Elizabeth and the Gardiners the next day. Georgiana is a graceful, well-
formed, and attractive girl of sixteen. Because she is unassuming and diffident, some people erroneously judge
her to be proud. Instead, she turns out to be lovely and charming.

It is obvious to the Gardiners that Darcy is in love with Elizabeth, but they have doubts about the love being
reciprocated by Elizabeth.
Bingley arrives, and Elizabeth is gratified by his inquiries about her family and his disappointment at not having
seen Jane for so long. She closely watches the interaction between Georgiana and Bingley and cannot discern
any signs of a romantic attachment between them. She feels happy and hopeful for Jane. After the guests leave,
Elizabeth lies awake and thinks of Bingley and Darcy.

Elizabeth and Mrs. Gardiner pay a return call to Pemberley the next morning. Georgiana receives them warmly,
but the Bingley sisters are glacial in their welcome. When Caroline Bingley watches Darcy closely, especially
when he speaks to Elizabeth, it is plain to her that he is in love with the Bennet girl. She is green-eyed with
envy and tries to hide her jealousy by remarking to Elizabeth about the loss the Bennets must feel at the transfer
of the militia. This is an obvious allusion to Elizabeths initial infatuation for Wickham and her sisters scatter
brained red-coat chasing. Darcy blushes at the uncouth remark, and Georgiana is upset by the rudeness of the
slur. Elizabeth, however, manages to remain calm. When Elizabeth has left, Caroline makes a negative
comment about her appearance; Darcy retorts that he considers Elizabeth to be one of the most handsome
women he knows.

Notes
These chapters show that Darcy is still in love with Elizabeth; and she also begins to fall in love with him.
Elizabeths realization of love, however, is an outcome of a careful process of "determining her feelings". Her
love is not senseless like Lydias or instant like Janes. Elizabeth will soon be thankful to Darcy, "not merely for
having once loved her, but for still loving her well enough to forgive all the petulance and acrimony of her
manner in rejecting him, and all the unjust accusations accompanying her rejection".

Darcys sister, Georgiana, is introduced for the first time. She is a coy, sweet, and gentle girl who Darcy loves
dearly. She is a sharp contrast to the snobbish and unpleasant Bingley sisters. During Elizabeths visit to
Pemberley, Caroline shows her jealousy and makes rude remarks about Wickham and the Bennets. Georgiana
and Darcy are upset at the comment, especially since Lydia had eloped with Wickham. Elizabeth, however,
stays calm and unperturbed in spite of the insult. Darcy is obviously impressed by her demeanor.

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CHAPTER 46
Summary
Darcy seems to be on the verge of proposing to Elizabeth again when she receives alarming news from Jane.
Lydia has eloped with Wickham, which distresses Elizabeth greatly since she knows that Wickham has not
married her sister. Jane asks Elizabeth to return home immediately and asks Mr. Gardiner to aid their father
with a search for Lydia in London.

When Darcy enters, Elizabeth is trembling and in tears. He is genuinely concerned when he hears of the
calamity. He holds himself partially responsible for what has happened to Lydia since he has failed to speak out
against Wickham. Elizabeth also condemns herself for not warning her family about Wickham. She decides she
must return home immediately to give support to the family.

Notes
A twist in the plot is provided by Lydias elopement with Wickham. Both Elizabeth and Darcy blame
themselves for the catastrophe since they have not spoken out and revealed the truth about Wickham. As Darcy
tries to comfort Elizabeth over the catastrophe, it is the first time the two of them are understanding and intimate
with each other. Trusting Darcy as never before, Elizabeth opens up and talks about her familys disgrace. In
response, Darcy is kind, affectionate, and tender. Love has obviously made him more humble, sensitive, and
understanding. It is ironic that a Bennet family crisis serves to bring the couple closer together, for in the past
Darcy has only been critical of Elizabeths socially inferior family.

CHAPTER 47

Summary
Elizabeth is certain that the mercenary Wickham will not marry the penniless Lydia, a fact which makes matters
worse. Elizabeth tells the Gardiners that Lydia knows nothing of Wickhams despicable past and lacks the good
sense and strength of character to judge him appropriately on her own.

When Elizabeth arrives home, there has been no word from Lydia, and Mr. Bennet, in London, has had no luck
finding her. Mrs. Bennet, in hysterics, blames everyone for her suffering. She is still blind to the fact that her
over-indulgence with Lydia is the principal cause of her daughters disgrace. To add to the misery at the
Bennets, Lady Lucas calls to console them, when in reality she has come to gloat.

Lydia writes a letter to Mrs. Forster and says that she and Wickham are going to Gretna Green. Jane and
Elizabeth read the letter and share its contents. Mr. Gardiner plans join Mr. Bennet to help in the search for
Lydia.

Notes
When Elizabeth arrives at home, she finds things in turmoil. Her father is in London searching for Lydia, and
Jane is running the house while her mother is "nursing her hysterics". The chapter clearly reveals the inability of
Mrs. Bennet to function as a responsible mother. She has encouraged Lydias flirtatiousness in the first place,
and now that the inevitable calamity has occurred, she is full of self-sympathy and hysteria. The misery of the
Bennets is aggravated by the consolation of Lady Lucas, who seems to gain pleasure from rubbing salt on the
Bennets wounds. In contrast, the Gardiners are genuinely helpful; Mr. Gardiner heads to London to join Mr.
Bennet in the search for Lydia.

CHAPTER 48

Summary
Mr. Collins sends a letter of condolence, but is brimming with painful references to Lydias disposition and her
faulty upbringing. Messages in a similar vein from Lady Catherine are also included. Another letter from
Colonel Forster is sent to Mr. Gardiner, informing him that Wickham has left sizeable gambling and other debts
behind him in Brighton.

Persuaded by Mr. Gardiner, Mr. Bennet finally returns to Longbourn. He appears unruffled as ever but tells
Elizabeth that he is to blame for being lenient with Lydia. He resolves, in his ironic manner, to be more strict
with Kitty.

Notes
This chapter presents a merciless letter from Mr. Collins, again revealing his despicable nature. On hearing of
Lydias "licentious behavior", he advises Mr. Bennet to "throw off his unworthy child from his affection
forever" and with unparalleled egotism congratulates himself of not being personally involved in the familys
disgrace. Mr. Collins also includes Lady Catherines expert derogatory comments.

Mr. Bennets ineffectual nature is also highlighted in the chapter. With a little encouragement from Mr.
Gardiner, he returns to Longbourn leaving it to his brother-in-law to shoulder the responsibilities of finding
Lydia. He has retreated so far into his isolation over the years that it is next to impossible for him to correct his
behavior now. He does, however, somewhat blame himself for the mess with Lydia and promises to be more
strict with Kitty.

CHAPTER 49

Summary
Lydia and Wickham are found and, as expected, they are not married. Wickham, however, has agreed to marry
her on the stipulation that his debts are cleared and he is given a stipend of one hundred pounds a year. Mr.
Bennet agrees to the offer, but suspects that a much greater amount must have been passed on by Mr. Gardiner
to maneuver Wickham to yield. Mrs. Bennet, upon hearing that Lydia is to be married, forgets the disgraceful
state of affairs under which the marriage is coming to a pass. She enthusiastically proceeds to make
arrangements for a wedding and to convey the glad tidings in the neighborhood.

Notes
When Lydia is found living with Wickham, Elizabeth realizes that her sister is devoid of moral scruples; so is
Mrs. Bennet. When she hears that Lydia is to be married, she forgets the shameful circumstances, eagerly plans
a wedding, and tells all her neighbors the "good" news. She never gives a second thought to the kind of man
that Lydia is getting for a husband or that the family has to pay one hundred pounds a year to Wickham to
accomplish the marriage.

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CHAPTER 50

Summary
Mr. Bennet is ashamed that Mr. Gardiner has paid a sum to money to Wickham to accomplish the marriage; he
plans to find out the amount and repay his brother-in-law as soon as possible. He even writes a letter to
Gardiner to state his plans. He is also disappointed in Lydias behavior and has resolved not to admit them at
Longbourn. In contrast, Mrs. Bennet has no remorse. Once she hears about the marriage, she ends her voluntary
exile in her room and takes her seat at the head of the table. She is in high spirits, allowing no shame to dampen
her victory. She is ecstatic about her plans for the married couple but her husband has resolved not to admit
them at Longbourn.

Elizabeth regrets that she has confided in Darcy, for it embarrasses her that he now knows of her familys
disgrace. She finally acknowledges her love for Darcy, but she feels the chances of marrying him are now lost
forever. She is saddened over the situation, for she thinks that Darcy is just the man to make her a suitable
husband; she believes their marriage would be the ideal union, but unfortunately Lydias disgraceful union has
marred her chances forever.

Mr. Gardiner writes that Wickham intends to quit the militia and enter into a regiment stationed in the north;
Lydia wishes to see her family before they depart. Mr. Bennet initially refuses Lydias request, but Jane and
Elizabeth convince him to receive her and Wickham. It is arranged that after they are married, the couple will
proceed to Longbourn.
Notes
Mr. Bennet partially redeems himself in this chapter. He is ashamed about his own finances and sad that Mr.
Gardiner has had to pay a large sum to have Wickham marry Lydia. His determination to repay Gardiner shows
that he is an honest and fair-minded man.

Elizabeth is ashamed of Lydias behavior. Now that she realizes that she loves Darcy, she is sad to think that
she will never be able to marry him because of her Lydias disgrace. She now accepts that Darcys assessment
of her family was correct.

Lydias elopement is central to the plot, for it threatens to devastate the life of her older sisters -- both of whom
are immensely superior to her.

CHAPTER 51

Summary
Mr. and Mrs. Wickham arrive at Longbourn. Mrs. Bennet welcomes them warmly, but Mr. Bennet is provoked
by the couples easy manner and shameless impudence. Elizabeth is indignant over their behavior, and even the
gentle Jane is mortified by their indifferent attitude. Lydia chatters unabashedly about Wickham and seems to
be totally in love with him, in spite of the shabby treatment that he has given her. In contrast, Wickham does not
seem to be much in love with Lydia. While talking to Elizabeth, Lydia says that Darcy was present at the
wedding. Elizabeth is thoroughly intrigued at his presence there and writes to her aunt to find out why.

Notes
The welcome Lydia and her husband receive from her parents on returning home is very typical. Mr. Bennet,
provoked by Lydias shamelessness, retreats to his ivory tower; Mrs. Bennet gushes over the newly-weds.
During her stay, Lydia clearly reveals her immaturity. She is insensitive to the shame and agony her family was
subjected to on account of her elopement. When Elizabeth attempts to shame her for her immoral behavior, it is
a futile attempt; Lydia, like her mother, is overjoyed at the marriage and feels there is no reason to repent. Even
though she is self assured, Lydia proves she is a thoroughly spoiled girl, who does what she likes, leaving it to
others to straighten out the mess she creates.

Unlike Elizabeth and Jane, Lydia does not care about social dignity and status in marriage. She is even so nave
about her sisters that she recommends that they also go to Brighton to hunt for grooms.

CHAPTER 52

Summary
When she responds to Elizabeths letter, Mrs. Gardiner is surprised that Elizabeth does not know the truth about
the Wickham marriage. She informs Elizabeth that Darcy had found Lydia and bribed Wickham to marry her.
Darcy then made Mr. Gardiner promise that he would conceal this information and take the credit for having
paid Wickham. Elizabeth is overwhelmed by Darcys kindness and finds it hard to believe that he has done all
this. She assumes that his involvement has sprung from his sense of responsibility for Wickham.

Wickham confronts Elizabeth and tries to find out if she knows the truth about his relationship with Darcy.
Elizabeth is evasive and cynical in her vague response and succeeds in getting rid of him quickly.

Notes
Elizabeth is shocked to learn from Mrs. Gardiner that it was Darcy who found Lydia and paid Wickham to
marry her. She feels deeply indebted to Darcy; at the same time, she is so ashamed of her family that she wishes
she had not confided in him.

It should be noted that Elizabeth is a fiercely independent woman who has never wanted to be under obligation
to anyone, especially not to someone she loves. In the past, she has thought that her relation with Darcy was
unequal because of the disparity in their social status. Now the balance is further tipped by Elizabeths sense of
indebtedness to Darcy.

In this chapter, the reader sees a contrast to the first scene between Elizabeth and Wickham. Wickhams is no
longer boastful to Elizabeth, for he is aware that she knows the shameful truth about him.

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CHAPTER 53

Summary
Mrs. Bennet is crestfallen after the departure of Lydia, her favorite daughter. The only thing that excites her is
Mr. Bingleys arrival with Darcy at Netherfield. Elizabeth fears that her mothers incorrigible behavior will
surface again to embarrass her further. During the first visit, Mrs. Bennet, as always, talks foolishly, humiliating
Elizabeth. She also gushes over Mr. Bingley, while being cold and ceremoniously polite to Darcy. Elizabeth is
particularly pained by her mothers icy treatment of Darcy, who has been Lydias savior. Darcys behavior,
which is solemn and reserved, aggravates Elizabeths misery further. The only positive thing in the visit is
Bingleys marked attention towards Jane, whom he finds as pretty as ever, though not so communicative.
Notes
The plot comes almost full circle with Bingley and Darcy returning to Netherfield, and Mrs. Bennet again
dreaming of finding a husband for Jane. She also makes a fool of herself once more with her grotesque
behavior. Ironically, she is totally cold towards Darcy; she has no idea that it is Darcy who has found Lydia and
paid Wickham. At the same time, she gushes over Bingley to the point of embarrassment for Elizabeth and
Jane.

CHAPTERS 54 - 55

Summary

Mr. Bennet invites the company at Netherfield to dinner at Longbourn. During the visit, Darcys serious and
aloof behavior disturbs Elizabeth. He sits far from her, his speech is formal, and he does not seek her out after
dinner. In contrast, Mr. Bingley clearly shows his affection for Jane and seems to be in love with her as never
before; he never leaves Janes side throughout the evening. Mrs. Bennet is in an ecstatic mood over Bingleys
attention to Jane and the overall success of the party.

Darcy goes to London a few days after the dinner party. Elizabeth is displeased over his departure, but she is
delighted to learn that Bingley has proposed to Jane, who is ecstatic over the thought of marrying him. Mrs.
Bennet is a delightfully happy woman, for two of her daughters will soon be married.

Notes
These are important chapters of the novel. Mrs. Bennets hopes for her daughters are finally materializing. With
Lydias marriage and Bingleys engagement to Jane, it is only Elizabeth who needs to find a husband; and even
Elizabeth has overcome her pride and her prejudice against Darcy to admit to herself that she is in love with the
man. Fortunately, Jane and Bingley, whose characters are not as complicated as that of Elizabeth, easily work
out their romance. It is refreshing to see the love they share, for it is pure, simple, and straight-forward. It is
ironic that Darcy has pushed for the engagement of Jane and Bingley, for he had earlier dissuaded his friend
about Jane.

CHAPTER 56

Summary
Lady Catherine comes charging in at Longbourn "with an air more than usually ungracious". As always, she is
cold and haughty; she treats the Bennet family with open contempt, declining all offers of refreshment and
remarking about the small size of their property. Lady Catherine asks Elizabeth to walk on the lawn with her.
There she tells Elizabeth she has heard a scandalous falsehood that Darcy has become engaged to her. She
forces Elizabeth to negate the rumor and wants the assurance that Elizabeth will never consent if Darcy should
propose. She declares that her daughter and Darcy have been intended for each other from the cradle. She
bitterly derides the lack of class of the Bennets and speaks about Lydias elopement. The self-assured Elizabeth
unflinchingly argues that there is no reason why Darcy or she should not make their own choice about marriage.
Lady Catherine is incensed and calls Elizabeth a selfish creature who will pollute the shades of Pemberley by
her inferior presence.

Notes
This chapter presents the preposterous attack of Lady Catherine and Elizabeths noble response. Previously,
Elizabeth has borne Lady Catherines impertinent intrusions into her private life because she was in the ladys
house, and decorum prevented her from answering back. When Lady Catherine attacks at Longbourn, Elizabeth
retaliates with self-respect. In a calm, but assured, manner she vetoes the demands of Lady Catherine, who is
stunned by Elizabeths undaunted courage. Ironically, Lady Catherines unsavory intrusion serves to
foreshadow the engagement of Elizabeth and to tie up the plot. Since Elizabeth and Darcy have put aside their
pride and prejudices, the stage is set for their union.

CHAPTER 57

Summary
A letter arrives from Mr. Collins congratulating Mr. Bennet on Janes betrothal and also hinting at the rumors
which are floating in and out of Hertfordshire that Darcy and Elizabeth are soon to be engaged. Mr. Collins also
conveys that Lady Catherine views the Darcy-Elizabeth match with an unfriendly eye. Mr. Bennet reads the
letter to Elizabeth and voices his thorough amusement, for he believes that Darcy has no interest in his daughter.
Elizabeth pretends to be equally surprised at the rumors.

Notes
In this chapter, it is obvious that Mr. Bennet has been able to put the Lydia-Wickham episode behind him. He is
again in a happy frame of mind and can read Mr. Collins letter with amusement. Not knowing the feelings of
Elizabeth, he is certain that the reported rumors about Darcy are a total joke. He even remarks that man seems
to live "to make sport for our neighbors, and laugh at them in our turn". This remark also emphasizes the
difference between Elizabeth and her fathers social outlook. Elizabeth is concerned about the decorum and
good repute of her family, while Mr. Bennet sees human behavior as a humorous specimen to be studied under
his satiric eye.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: LITERATURE SUMMARY

CHAPTER 58

Summary
Darcy returns from London and visits Longbourn. When Elizabeth thanks him for his kind intervention in
Lydias affair, Darcy blushes because he had not expected that Mrs. Gardiner would tell Elizabeth about his part
in the marriage. Darcy then proposes to Elizabeth again. This time Elizabeth happily accepts his proposal. As
they talk over their past relationship, many misunderstandings are cleared. Darcy humbly informs Elizabeth that
he has apologized to Bingley for his former rash advice about Jane and assured his friend that Jane truly loves
him.

Notes

This is a very significant chapter, for the climax of the plot is reached when Elizabeth accepts Darcys proposal.
Even when they have confessed their love, this intelligent pair pose and answer questions to each other, try to
analyze their feelings, and review their past actions. It is important to note that Elizabeth and Darcy have
undergone significant changes in the novel, putting aside their pride and prejudices; in contrast, Jane and
Bingley have remained static characters.

CHAPTER 59

Summary
On the same night, Elizabeth confides to Jane about her engagement. Jane is initially shocked because she was
under the impression that Elizabeth still disliked Darcy. Elizabeth assures her sister that her feelings have
changed, her prejudices have vanished, and she is very much in love with him. Jane is genuinely happy for her
sister.

The next evening Darcy asks Mr. Bennets consent to marry Elizabeth. Mr. Bennet grants him the permission
grudgingly, for he believes Darcy to be an insolent, proud man. To improve her fathers opinion, Elizabeth
reveals Darcys kind intervention in getting Lydia married. On hearing the news of Darcys basic goodness, Mr.
Bennet becomes happy for his favorite child. Mrs. Bennet, on hearing the news, is overjoyed. She quickly
forgets that she has hated Darcy in the past; she now shows an admirable awe for her future son-in-law. Mr.
Bennet says that he likes all his three sons-in-law; ironically, he says he probably likes Wickham the most.

Notes
Elizabeths engagement to Darcy is a surprise to many people. Jane is shocked because she is still of the belief
that Elizabeth cannot stand Darcy. Mr. Bennet, unsure of Darcys character, questions whether he is the right
choice for his favorite daughter; for once, he seems to genuinely care about one of his childrens welfare when
he says, "Let me not have the grief of seeing you unable to respect your partner in life." Ironically, his words
reflect the sad truth of his own marital situation. He does not want his sensible daughter to be trapped in an
unsuited marriage. Mrs. Bennet immediately changes her opinion about "the most disagreeable man;" she is
overjoyed that another of her daughters is about to be married.

CHAPTERS 60 - 61

Summary
Elizabeth writes to Mrs. Gardiner informing her about her engagement and thanking her for giving the details
about Lydias affair. Mr. Bennet writes to Mr. Collins asking him to console Lady Catherine since Elizabeth is
going to marry Darcy; the woman is outraged at the news. Miss Bingley writes a phony letter to Jane on how
elated she is at the news of the engagements of both Jane and Elizabeth. In contrast, Darcys sister writes a long
loving letter to Elizabeth; her happiness is heartfelt.

Even though Mrs. Bennett is delighted to have her oldest three daughters married, she still does not become
sensible. Jane and Bingley decide to live in Derbyshire, rather than Netherfield, in order to avoid being too
close to Mrs. Bennet. Kitty spends time a lot of time with her two oldest sisters and their husbands. Mary is
content to sit at home. Elizabeth and Georgiana get along very well, and the latter improves under the care of
her devoted and sensible sister-in-law.

Wickham and Lydia are incorrigible; they beg Elizabeth for favors, but she politely refuses. Miss Bingley is
totally crushed that Darcy has not married her; in order not to lose contact with him, she visits Pemberley and
dons a pseudo-affection for the couple. Lady Catherine is bitter about the marriage and writes an abusive letter
to Darcy. For some time after this there is no communication between them, until Elizabeth prevails on Darcy to
forgive his aunt. They are on very intimate terms with the Gardiners. Both Darcy and Elizabeth are fond of the
couple who were accidentally instrumental in uniting them.

Notes
The final chapter shows ties up the plot with Jane Austen making sure that there are no loose ends in the novel.
The reader is provided with information about all the key characters, with the relationship of Elizabeth and
Darcy being highlighted. Elizabeth, established at Pemberley, gets along well with her sister-in-law. Kitty is
delighted to visit with her older two married sisters; it is a welcome break from the Bennet household. Even
though Mrs. Bennet wish has come true, with her three oldest daughters married, she is still the crude and
insensible character she was at the beginning of the novel. In contrast, Elizabeth is greatly changed, having lost
her pride and her prejudice.

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: ONLINE PLOT ANALYSIS

OVERALL ANALYSIS

CHARACTER ANALYSIS

Elizabeth Bennet
Elizabeth is a spontaneous, high-spirited, vivacious, witty, and warm young lady. She is also a bright, complex,
and intriguing individual who is realistic about life. Unlike her sister Jane, she is not ready to believe that
everyone is flawless. She knows the impropriety of her father and is aware that it springs from the
unhappiness of his life with his wife. She also perceives the fickleness of her mothers temper and her crass
social behavior. Even to the point of being saucy and blunt at times, Elizabeth is not afraid to speak her mind.

Throughout the novel, Elizabeths encounters with Darcy are a battle of adult minds. Elizabeths speeches,
crackling with irony, filled with pep, and displaying vibrant humor, exert a magnetic pull on Darcy. He
recognizes that she is a woman endowed with sense and sensibility, radically different from most young females
that he knows. He is particularly impressed with her poise; she is not intimidated by the upper class or overawed
by the arrogant Darcy.

Elizabeths main flaw is an exaggerated prejudice. Her first negative impression of Darcy at the Netherfield
ball, Wickhams tall story about him, and Darcys influencing Bingley against Jane fuel her prejudice. She
spends most of the novel truly disliking her future husband. When Darcy proposes to her the first time, she does
not even give the offer serious thought before turning the man down. Fortunately, Darcy is determined and does
not give up on Elizabeth.

Elizabeth is an honest individual, both to others and to herself. Once she realizes the truth about Darcy, she
admits her incorrect prejudice against him and regrets her previous rejection of him. In fact, she even admits to
herself that she is in love with Darcy, but she is realistic enough to think that she no longer stands a chance with
him. When she learns that Darcy has saved Lydia from disgrace, she swallows her remaining pride and states
her appreciation to Darcy. His response is to ask for her hand in marriage once again. This time, a much wiser
Elizabeth eagerly accepts.

In the novel, Elizabeth Bennet proves that she is a woman both particular to her age and society and yet
different from it. Like her mother, Elizabeth is sometimes prone to outspoken speeches and impulsive actions;
yet, she never disregards the propriety which the age insisted upon for women. Her keen intelligence, her good
sense, and her unconventional charm make Elizabeth an unforgettable character.

Fitzwilliam Darcy
While Elizabeth is the symbol of prejudice in the novel, Darcy embodies the element of pride, which is clearly
established in him from the very beginning of the book. His arrogant ways make him unpopular and
misunderstood, even though he is envied for his good looks and wealth. Elizabeth takes a particular disliking to
him for his haughty rudeness when he initially says that he is not interested in her at the ball. When she learns
that he has advised Bingley not to pursue a relationship with Jane, she is further incensed at the man. It is not
surprising, therefore, that when Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, he is turned down, especially since his offer was
made in a haughty and condescending manner. Elizabeths refusal jolts his pride and sets him on a course of self
realization.
When Elizabeth visits Pemberley, she discovers a different side of Darcy. She is impressed with the taste and
refinement of his home. He is obviously a cultured and intelligent man. From the housekeeper, she also learns
that he is a generous landlord, a kind master, and a devoted brother. Later in the novel, it is revealed that he is
the only son of aristocratic parents and that at a very early age he had to take up family responsibilities which
made him independent and conceited.

Darcys love for Elizabeth is clearly a conflict for him between head and heart. He thinks he should not love her
because of her lower social position and her crass family; but his heart is attracted to her beauty, her sensibility,
her independence, and her vivacity. When he proposes to her the first time, he is sure that she will accept.
Because of her rejection, Darcy undergoes a metamorphosis from an insolvent aristocrat to a kind, down-to-
earth soul. Out of his love for Elizabeth, he silently rescues Lydia by "buying" her marriage to Wickham. Later,
he is even kind and courteous to her parents. In summary, Darcy becomes the perfect picture of a thoroughbred
gentleman and the ideal husband for Elizabeth.

Mr. Bennet
Although Mr. Bennet is basically a sensible man, he behaves strangely because of his disillusionment with his
wife. Living with Mrs. Bennet has made him somewhat bitter and cynical. Trapped in a bad marriage, he makes
life endurable for himself by assuming a pose of an ironic passive spectator of life, who has long ago abdicated
his roles as a husband and a father. Once in awhile, he comes out of his ivory tower to amuse himself by
pestering his foolish wife or making callous remarks about his daughters. He reality, he is quite fond of his
children, particularly Elizabeth, who he finds sensible and witty.

Throughout the novel, Mr. Bennet proves he is an insensitive father. His wit, though enlivening, is disturbing
because of its cynicism; unfortunately, it is often turned on his daughters. When Jane is jilted in love, he speaks
of it in a very light manner, saying it is an unavoidable occurrence, which distresses Jane even more. He is not
concerned about Lydias inappropriate behavior and allows her to go off to Brighton, in spite of Elizabeths
warnings to him; his negligence on this account leads to Lydias elopement. This incident shocks him out of his
complacency, and for once he seems genuinely worried about one of his children. He even goes to London to
search for his daughter; unfortunately, he soon allows Mr. Gardiner to replace him. When Elizabeth announces
her engagement to Darcy, Mr. Bennet seems genuinely concerned, for he still believes Darcy to be arrogant and
rude; he does not want his daughter to enter into a miserable marriage like his own. When he learns of Darcys
goodness and Elizabeths true love for him, Mr. Bennet blesses the union. At the end of the novel, however, he
is not a greatly changed man; he is still in his ivory tower, trying to escape the inanity of his wife.

Mrs. Bennet
Mrs. Bennet is described by the author as "a woman of mean understanding, little information, and uncertain
temper." In her youth, her beauty won her a husband, but she could not sustain Mr. Bennets interest for long
because of her crude behavior. As the novel opens, she has one purpose in life - to find acceptable husbands for
her oldest three daughters.

Mrs. Bennet is loud and gauche as is illustrated in her behavior at Netherfield. Whenever she opens her mouth,
she seems to make a fool of herself. Her vulgar social behavior becomes a major deterrent for Bingley and
Darcy in the pursuit of her daughters. In addition to her crass behavior, Mrs. Bennet is not very intelligent or
sensible. She is given to hasty judgments and fluctuating opinions. Throughout the book, her opinions of people
swing between abhorrence and admiration, as seen in her changing feelings for Mr. Collins, Wickham, Bingley,
and Darcy. Of course, much of how she judges them is based on whether or not she believes they will become
her sons-in-law.

Like her husband, Mrs. Bennet fails miserably in her role as a parent. She fails to understand the sensibilities of
Jane and Elizabeth, and often embarrasses the two girls with her indiscreet behavior and hurtful remarks. She
ridicules Jane for her love for Bingley and wants Elizabeth to marry the horrid Mr. Collins. Her permissiveness
with Lydia leads to her living with Wickham outside of marriage. Mrs. Bennets reaction to the elopement is to
go into hysterics and hide herself in her room. She is incapable of holding the family together in a moment of
crisis; in fact, she just makes matters worse.

In the end, Mrs. Bennet gets exactly what she has desired; her three eldest daughters are married. She, however,
remains the same gawking, vulgar and foolish woman.

Jane Bennet
Jane is the beautiful, charming, and subdued sister of Elizabeth. In fact, she is so gentle and kind that she
genuinely and naively believes that everyone else in the world is the same. Elizabeth even tells her that "you
never see a fault in anybody. All the world is good and agreeable in your eyes. I have never heard you speak ill
of any human being." Her attraction for Bingley is instant, for she sees him as a simple, unassuming man and a
perfect mate. She is greatly disappointed when Bingley seems to lose interest in her, but she patiently waits for
him. At the end of the novel, the good Jane is rewarded for her patient endurance when Bingley proposes to her.

Bingley
A promising young man endowed with wealth and social ease, Bingley is the owner of Netherfield. Unlike
Darcy, he is very popular with everyone because he is gentle, kind, and amiable, and his manners are socially
pleasing. His love for Jane is instant and pure; unfortunately, he is at first discouraged from pursuing a
relationship with her.

At times, Bingley seems a bit weak, lacking self-confidence. He lets himself be manipulated by his friends and
his sisters. Darcy acts like an adviser, philosopher, and guide to him, leading him away from his attraction to
Jane. Unfortunately, Bingley always places a great premium on Darcys sense of judgement and follows his
advice, almost without questions. On the whole, Bingley is a very simple, uncomplicated character. Elizabeth
Bennet correctly depicts him as a man who is very easy to understand.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: Free BookNotes Summary

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: FREE NOTES

PLOT STRUCTURE ANALYSIS

In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen creates a picture of the small, cocooned world of the middle class gentry --
with their commonplace joys and their commonplace sorrows. The central concern of this "comedy of manners"
is Mrs. Bennets dogged efforts to find suitable husbands for her eldest daughters. Of course, Mrs. Bennets
judgements cannot be trusted, for she is a nagging wife, an ineffectual mother, and a social misfit throughout
the novel. Her repeated and continued foolishness is one of the things that holds the plot together into a unified
whole.
The plots focus on marriage is seen from the very beginning of the story. The arrival of Mr. Bingley, a single
man of large fortune at near-by Netherfield immediately fires the imagination of Mrs. Bennet. An acquaintance
is struck and what follows is a series of parties, balls, and teas, which are very essential to the plot; it is at these
social gatherings that the four main characters -Bingley and Jane and Darcy and Elizabeth - are brought
together. They also serve to illustrate the culture, manners, fashions, pretensions, and snobberies of the English
gentry at the time.
The first ball at Netherfield hints at the course of things to follow. The amiable Jane and the gentle Bingley are
almost instantly drawn to each other. In contrast, the proud Darcy and the prejudiced Elizabeth have great
difficulty in communicating; Elizabeth is infuriated that the arrogant man has slighted her. Much of the
remaining plot is centered on the unfolding of the pride and prejudices of this pair, which Jane Austen carefully
develops. Janes illness at Netherfield Park is deftly contrived by the author to get the two pairs of lovers into
closer contact, where they can observe each others natures and evaluate their own feelings. In contrast to his
reaction at the ball, Darcy is attracted by Elizabeths fine eyes, her frankness, and her ready wit. Unfortunately,
Elizabeths prejudice against Darcy makes her misinterpret anything he says or does. Wickham, serving as a
contrast to Darcy, diversifies the plot. By telling falsehoods about Darcy, he strengthens Elizabeths dislike of
the man. When Elizabeth spurns his advances, he preys upon the coquetry and caprice of Lydia, finally eloping
with her. This event lets Darcy prove his true worth to Elizabeth.

Mr. Collins is introduced into the plot to reveal the negative side of marriage. He is a sycophant, a pompous
clergyman, and an odd combination of servility and self importance. He is a deliberately constructed,
grotesque figure, who is desperate to marry for any reason. Unfortunately, Charlotte Lucas, compelled by
economic and social pressures, accepts his proposal. The picture of their married life is a bleak one. The noble
Charlotte, however, tries to make her life as pleasant as possible, tolerating Collins as a payment for her sense
of security offered by marriage.

Lady Catherine de Bourgh is introduced into the plot as a very wealthy member of the upper class society and
as Collins patroness. She also happens to be Darcys aunt, and it is speculated that her nephew will marry her
unacceptable daughter. In each encounter with Lady Catherine, she shows herself to be rude, authoritative, and
domineering woman, who would like to run the lives of everyone she knows. Through her, Jane Austen clearly
shows that superiority of social class does not necessarily imply superiority of intellect, ethics, or morality. For
all her purported sophistication and snobbery, Lady Catherine, in her own way, is as coarse and vulgar as Mrs.
Bennet.

The plot is further advance by another meeting of Darcy and Elizabeth, which leads him to know that he is in
love with this vivacious young lady. Against his better judgement and sure that she will accept, Darcy proposes
to Elizabeth. Her stormy refusal jolts his prides and results in an explanatory letter, which seeks to clarify the
two allegations leveled against him. Although angered by the letter, from this point forward, Elizabeth begins to
change her opinion of Darcy, moving away from her prejudice to a more realistic and uncritical viewpoint. At
the same time, Darcy is forced to look at himself and lose some of his arrogance.

Elizabeths visit to Derbyshire with the Gardiners brings her into contact with Darcy once again. Elizabeths
prejudice really begins to thaw under the warmth he emits during the visit; but just as the two are about to be
reconciled, tragedy strikes. Lydia has eloped with Wickham, and Elizabeth is summoned to Longbourn.
Ironically, Lydias crass behavior threatens to fatally injure the chances of her two admirable sisters to attract
Bingley and Darcy.

In the end, Lydias elopement provides an opportunity for Darcy to prove his worth to Elizabeth. He convinces
Wickham to marry Lydia, by offering him a large sum of money. When Elizabeth learns of his noble deed, she
realizes how wrong she his been in her judgement of him and hopes for a chance to make things right. When
she sees Darcy again, she apologizes and expresses her appreciation. Darcys response to Elizabeths humility is
to propose to her once again. This time Elizabeth eagerly accepts, bringing the plot to its natural climax.
The fully developed and tightly constructed plot clearly centers on marriage in its various forms. It is the central
theme that binds the plot together. Therefore, the natural end of the novel comes with Janes marriage to
Bingley and Elizabeths marriage to Darcy. Love has conquered all - both pride and prejudice.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: Free BookNotes Summary

Page 27
Free Study Guide: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - Free BookNotes

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE: LITERARY CRITICISM / FREE BOOK

SUMMARY

THEMES - THEME ANALYSIS

The central theme of the novel concerns itself with marriage, as indicated in the ironic opening line of the book:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a
wife." Throughout the novel, it is not the man who is seeking a spouse so much as it is Mrs. Bennet seeking
suitable husbands for her older daughters.

The entire novel explores the various types of love and marriage. The Bennets marriage is shown to be a
disaster, with the wife playing the part of a fool and the husband retreating to live an uninvolved life in his ivory
tower. In contrast to the marriage of the Bennets is the pleasant conjugal life of the Gardiners, who are mutually
compatible and supportive. Charlotte Lucas marriage to Mr. Collins is a compromise, one of economic
necessity, so she will have a means of support. Lydias love, largely sensual, is pictured as a hollow kind of love
between a senseless, vulgar flirt and a mean, unscrupulous man. In contrast, the love of Jane and Bingley is
straightforward, simple, pure, and innocent. The relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth is a perfect match
between two animated and intelligent adults who truly love, support, and respect one another. It is Jane
Austens picture of the ideal marriage.

Pride and prejudice are additional central concerns of Jane Austen in this novel. Early in the book, she
defines pride, via Mary Bennet, as the opinion one has of himself and distinguishes it from vanity which is
"what we would have others to think of us". Although several of Austens characters, including Elizabeth,
display some measure of destructive pride, it is Darcy who is the fully embodiment of a totally proud and
arrogant man. Although pride is a natural adjunct to an aristocrat, in Darcys case it becomes his worst foe.
Initially, it binds him within the narrow confines of the upper crust of society and gives him a distaste for the
world which lies outside. Although he is attracted to Elizabeth, he is condescending towards her because of her
inferior social level and her crass family. Even when he realizes his love for her and proposes, he is insulting
and proud in his manner, causing Elizabeth to immediately reject his offer. Of course, she already holds a
blind prejudice against him for the way in which he has earlier treated her and because of Wickhams lies
about him. Elizabeths rejection hurts Darcys pride and causes him to do some self analysis. Darcys later
kindnesses to her and her family case Elizabeth to do a similar self analysis.
In the end, the couple rises above their pride and prejudice, finding true love for and admiration of one another.
Through Darcy and Elizabeth, Jane Austen clearly shows the harm that can be done when people do not see the
truth about themselves or others.
STUDY QUESTIONS - BOOK REPORT IDEAS
1.) Discuss the social background of Pride and Prejudice. Explain how this background is important to the
novel.Who is the main protagonist of Pride and Prejudice and what/who is the antagonist. How is the conflict
between them resolved?
2.) Comment on the opening statement of the novel and elucidate on how it reveals the theme of the book.

3.) Analyze the plot for its structure.

4.) Explain how the title relates to the book.

5.) Compare and contrast Jane and Elizabeth.

6.) Compare and contrast Bingley and Darcy.

7.) How does Austen develop the misunderstanding between Darcy and Elizabeth and how is it resolved?

8.) Discuss Pride and Prejudice as an exposition of the life and manners of a microcosm of nineteenth -century
English society.
9.) Several characters in the plot are responsible for the Elizabeth-Darcy union. Who are they and what have
they done, intentionally or unintentionally, to bring the couple together.

10.)Explain all the different kinds of marriages that are seen in the novel. Which marriage does Austen seem to
consider the most effective and why?

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