Pride and Prejudice LitChart

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Pride and Prejudice

KEY FACTS
INTR
INTRO
O
• Full Title: Pride and Prejudice
BRIEF BIOGRAPHY OF JANE AUSTEN • When Written: 1797-1812
Jane Austen was the seventh child of the parish rector in the • Where Written: Bath, Somerset, England
town of Steventon, where she and her family resided until
• When Published: 1813
moving to Bath in 1801. Though her parents were members of
the English gentry, they remained relatively poor. Modest to a • Literary Period: Classicism/Romanticism
fault about the value of her work, Jane Austen nevertheless • Genre: Novel of manners
produced some of the enduring masterpieces of English • Setting: Hertfordshire, London, and Pemberley, all in England
literature, including the novels Pride and Prejudice, Sense and at some time during the Napoleonic Wars (1797–1815)
Sensibility, Emma, and Persuasion. Her novels were published • Climax: The search for Lydia and Wickham
anonymously until after her death, when her authorship • Antagonist: There is no single antagonist. The sins of pride and
became known. While it was not unheard of for women to prejudice function as the main antagonizing force
publish under their own names in Austen's lifetime, it was still a
• Point of View: Third person omniscient
rarity. Despite the fact that her books focus on the intricate
rituals of courtship and marriage among the British middle EXTRA CREDIT
class, Austen herself remained single throughout her life, Pride and Silver Screen? Pride and Prejudice was first adapted
preferring the life of a writer over that of a wife and hostess. for movies in a 1940 production starring Greer Garson and
Laurence Olivier. It was again filmed in 1995, as a mini-series
HISTORICAL CONTEXT for A&E Television, featuring Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth Bennet
Austen's novels are famous for the way they seem to exist in a and Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy. The most recent production stars
small, self-contained universe. There are almost no references Keira Knightley as Elizabeth and was filmed in 2005.
in her work to the events of the larger world. Nevertheless, it is
worth noting that Austen's depiction of life in the tranquil First Impressions: Austen's initial title for her manuscript was
English countryside takes place at the same time when England "First Impressions." Though the book was eventually published
was fighting for its life against the threat of Napoleon, and all of as Pride and Prejudice, the initial title hints at the story's concern
Europe was embroiled in war and political chaos. No mention is for social appearances and the necessity of finding people's
ever made of the imminence of a French invasion in her novels. true qualities beneath the surface.
Napoleon was finally defeated by the British at Waterloo in
1815, two years before Austen's death.
PL
PLO
OT SUMMARY
RELATED LITERARY WORKS The arrival of the wealthy Mr. Bingley to the estate of
Between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, English Netherfield Park causes a commotion in the nearby village of
literature underwent a dramatic transition. The 18th century Longbourn. In the Bennet household, Mrs. Bennet is desperate
had seen the rise of the novel in the works of writers like Daniel to marry Bingley to one of her five daughters—Jane, Elizabeth,
Defoe (Moll Flanders) and Samuel Richardson (Pamela). These Mary, Kitty, or Lydia. When Bingley meets Jane at a ball, he
novels focused on broad social issues of morality and domestic seems immediately smitten with her. Yet Bingley's snobby
manners. With the turn of the century and the rise of friend Darcy is rude to Elizabeth. Through the next few social
Romanticism, however, the novel began to explore human gatherings, Jane and Bingley grow closer, while Darcy, despite
relationships with a greater degree of emotional complexity. himself, finds himself becoming attracted to Elizabeth's beauty
Neither a Classicist nor a Romantic, Jane Austen is perhaps and intelligence.
best thought of as a pioneering figure in the development of the When Jane is caught in the rain while traveling to visit Bingley,
novel, providing the bridge from the often didactic novels of an she falls ill and must stay at Netherfield. Elizabeth comes to
earlier era to the great works of psychological realism of the Netherfield to care for Jane, and though Bingley's sisters are
Victorian period by writer such as George Eliot and Thomas rude and condescending to her (Caroline Bingley wants Darcy
Hardy. for herself), Darcy's attraction to her deepens. Elizabeth,
however, continues to consider him a snob. Meanwhile, Mr.
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Collins, a pompous clergyman and Mr. Bennet's cousin and heir, overjoyed Jane. While Darcy goes to London on business, Lady
visits the Bennets in search of a marriageable daughter. At Catherine visits Elizabeth, warning her not to marry Darcy.
about the same time, the Bennet sisters also meet Wickham, an Elizabeth refuses to promise. On his return, Darcy asks
army officer Elizabeth finds charming, and who claims Darcy Elizabeth again to marry him. This time she accepts, telling him
wronged him in the past. Elizabeth's prejudice against Darcy her prejudice against him had made her blind. Darcy
hardens. Soon after, at a ball at Netherfield, Mrs. Bennet, much acknowledges that his pride made him act rudely. Both couples
to Darcy's annoyance, comments that a wedding between Jane are married and the Bennet family rejoices in their daughters'
and Bingley is likely to soon take place. Collins, in the meantime, happiness.
proposes to Elizabeth, who declines, angering her mother, but
pleasing her father. Collins then proposes to Elizabeth's friend
Charlotte Lucas, who accepts out of a desire for security rather CHARA
CHARACTERS
CTERS
than a need for love.
Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy) Bennet — The novel's heroine and the
Bingley suddenly departs for London on business, and Caroline second oldest of the five Bennet sisters, Elizabeth is smart,
informs Jane by letter that not only will they not be returning, lively, and attractive. She prides herself on her ability to analyze
but moreover her brother is planning to wed Georgiana, other people, but she is very often mistaken in her conclusions
Darcy's sister. Jane is crushed. Elizabeth is sure Darcy and about their motivations. To her credit, though, she is eventually
Caroline are deliberately separating Bingley and Jane. The able to overcome her own prejudice. Elizabeth places little
sisters' aunt and uncle, Mr. Gardiner and Mrs. Gardiner, invite value on money and social position. Instead she prizes a
Jane to London hoping that she will get over her person's independence of character and personal virtue.
disappointment, but after she arrives Caroline snubs her and Although she is drawn to Darcy, she resists him based on her
she regrets ever marrying Bingley. Elizabeth visits Charlotte own mistaken preconceptions about him.
and Mr. Collins, where she encounters Collins' patron and
Fitzwilliam Darcy — Bingley's closest friend, the brother of
Darcy's relative, the wealthy and formidable Lady Catherine.
Georgiana, and the nephew of Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
Darcy arrives and surprises Elizabeth by joining her for long
Darcy is very wealthy and a person of great integrity, but his
intimate walks. She grows angry, however, when she learns that
extreme class-consciousness makes him appear vain and proud.
Darcy advised Bingley against marrying Jane. Oblivious, Darcy
He finds Elizabeth attractive, even ideal, but is clumsy in
announces his love for her and proposes marriage. Elizabeth
expressing his feelings and disdains her sometimes crass family.
refuses his proposal, accusing him of ruining Jane's marriage
Elizabeth's harsh appraisal of him compels him to reassess his
and mistreating Wickham. In a letter Darcy explains that he
behavior and attitudes. Her intelligence and her disregard for
intervened because he felt Jane did not truly love Bingley.
mere social rank teaches him to see people more for who they
Wickham, he writes, is a liar and a scoundrel. Elizabeth begins
are, rather than the status in to which they were born.
to feel she has misjudged Darcy and may have been rash in
turning him down. Returning home, Elizabeth finds that Lydia Jane Bennet — The oldest of the Bennet sisters, Jane seems
has become smitten with Wickham. She urges her father to almost too good to be true: beautiful, sweet-tempered, and
intervene, but he chooses to do nothing. Elizabeth soon modest. Her sole fault is that she refuses to think badly of
accompanies the Gardiners on a trip. During the trip, Elizabeth anyone. She always looks on the bright side and is quick to
visits Pemberley, Darcy's magnificent estate. She fantasizes defend someone when Elizabeth suspects them of having
about being his wife there and is further impressed when he shortcomings.
unexpectedly shows up and introduces her to his charming Charles Bingle
Bingleyy — Bingley is Darcy's best friend and the
sister, Georgiana. Bingley also arrives and reveals that he is still brother of Caroline Bingley and Mrs. Hurst. Unlike Darcy,
in love with Jane. however, Bingley is down to earth. Despite his huge wealth, he
Elizabeth's trip is cut short by a letter from Jane announcing is humble and modest, placing no great weight on social
that Lydia has eloped with Wickham. Fearing a scandal that will standing.
ruin all the daughters' futures, the Bennets search for Lydia in George Wickham — Wickham is an officer in the local military
London. When Mr. Gardiner tracks them down, Wickham regiment and appears to be the very model of a gentleman. In
demands his debts be paid off in return for marrying Lydia. The reality, he is a liar, hypocrite, and an opportunist. He thinks
Bennets assume that Gardiner gives in to the demand, since nothing of ruining a young woman's reputation, and is instead
Lydia and Wickham soon return, playing the happy newlyweds. much more concerned with paying off his massive gambling
(Mrs. Bennet is happy that at least one of her daughters is debts.
married.) Elizabeth soon discovers that Darcy, not Gardiner,
Mrs. Bennet — Mrs. Bennet is a giddy, frivolous woman whose
paid off Wickham's debts, out of love for her. Bingley and Darcy
only purpose in life seems to be gossiping and marrying off her
return to Netherfield and Bingley finally proposes to an
five daughters. She lacks any awareness of her vulgar conduct

and embarrasses Elizabeth and Jane to no end. Her behavior lacks any inheritance and so must seek out money through
depicts what can happen to women when they lack an marriage.
education and the ability to think for themselves. Mrs. Philips — Mrs. Bennet's shallow silly sister. The gossip
Mr
Mr.. Bennet — Though a discerning, well-educated man, Mr. queen of Meryton.
Bennet has made a bad marriage and is resigned to endure it. Colonel F
Forster
orster — The leader of Wickham's regiment.
He is a good-hearted person, but fails his family by remaining
Mrs. F
Forster
orster — Colonel Forster's wife. She irresponsibly aids
sarcastically detached: everything is a joke to him. This leads to
Lydia in her elopement with Wickham.
poor judgment, as when he does not interfere between Lydia
and Wickham.
Lydia Bennet — The youngest of the Bennet sisters, Lydia is a THEMES
vain, empty-headed flirt who has never had to deal with the
consequences of her actions. She is her mother's favorite. In LitCharts each theme gets its own color and number. Our
color-coded theme boxes make it easy to track where the
Catherine (Kitty) Bennet — The second youngest of the
themes occur throughout the work. If you don't have a color
Bennet sisters. A bit of a whiner, she tends to follow Lydia.
printer, use the numbers instead.
Mary Bennet — The middle child of the five Bennet sisters.
Mary is plain looking and a recluse who enjoys lecturing others
1 PRIDE
about morality, which she learns from books.
Pride is a constant presence in the characters' attitudes and
Mr
Mr.. Collins — Mr. Bennet's cousin and heir to the Bennet
treatment of each other, coloring their judgments and leading
estate (in Austen's time, only men could inherit). His patroness
them to make rash mistakes. Pride blinds Elizabeth and Darcy
is Lady Catherine. He is a ridiculous pompous clergyman
to their true feelings about each other. Darcy's pride about his
concerned only with impressing others.
social rank makes him look down on anyone not in his
Charlotte Lucas — A close friend of Elizabeth's. She weds Mr. immediate circle. Elizabeth, on the other hand, takes so much
Collins for security, not love, but nevertheless finds happiness pride in her ability to judge others that she refuses to revise her
in her situation. opinion even in the face of clearly contradictory evidence. This
Sir William Lucas — Charlotte's father, foolishly obsessed with is why she despises the good-hearted Darcy for so long, but
rank. initially admires the lying Wickham. Yet while Pride and
Lady Lucas — Charlotte's mother. Prejudice implies that no one is ever completely free of pride, it
makes it clear that with the proper moral upbringing one may
Mrs. Gardiner — Mrs. Bennet's sister-in-law. Intelligent and overcome it to lead a life of decency and kindness. In the end,
caring, she is the mother that Elizabeth and Jane cannot find in the two lovers are able to overcome their pride by helping each
Mrs. Bennet. other see their respective blind spots. Darcy sheds his
Mr
Mr.. Gardiner — Mrs. Bennet's brother and a successful, warm- snobbery, while Elizabeth learns not to place too much weight
hearted, cultivated merchant. on her own judgments.
Caroline Bingle
Bingleyy — Charles Bingley's sister. She cares only
about social status and tries to undermine Elizabeth because 2 PREJUDICE
she wants Darcy for herself. Prejudice in Pride and Prejudice refers to the tendency of the
Mrs. Hurst — Bingley's other sister. Though married, her views characters to judge one another based on preconceptions,
and temperament mirror her sister Caroline's. rather than on who they really are and what they actually do. As
Georgiana Darcy — Darcy's younger sister. Georgiana is a shy, the book's title implies, prejudice goes hand in hand with pride,
good-spirited person whom Elizabeth wrongly dislikes until often leading its heroine and hero into making wrong
they meet and become friends. Georgiana has her own assumptions about motives and behavior. Austen's gentle way
scandalous history with Wickham. of mocking Elizabeth's and Darcy's biases gives the impression
that such mistakes could, and indeed do, happen to anyone;
Lady Catherine de Bourgh — Domineering and rich, Lady
that faulting someone else for prejudice is easy while
Catherine meddles in everyone's affairs and cannot tolerate
recognizing it in yourself is hard. Prejudice in the novel is
any breach of class rank.
presented as a stage in a person's moral development,
Miss de Bourgh — Lady Catherine's sickly daughter. Her something that can be overcome through reason and
mother intends for Darcy to marry her. compassion. Austen only condemns those people who refuse to
Colonel Fitzwilliam — Darcy's cousin and Georgiana's set aside their prejudices, like the class-obsessed Lady
guardian. He's a model gentleman, though as a second son he Catherine and the scheming social climber Caroline. Though

Pride and Prejudice is a social comedy, it offers a powerful thoroughly empty, their opinions and motivations completely
illustration of the damaging effects to people and to society defined by the dictates of the class system. To contrast them,
that prejudice can inflict. Austen offers more positive examples in Bingley and the
Gardiners. Bingley is someone from the upper class who wears
3 FAMILY his position lightly and gallantly. The Gardiners represent the
honest, generous, and industrious middle class and are
The family is the predominant unit of social life in Pride and
examples of how to be wealthy without being pretentious.
Prejudice and forms the emotional center of the novel. Not only
does it provide (or fail to provide, as in the case of Lydia) the Austen does seem to respect the class system in a few ways,
Bennet daughters with their education and manners, but the especially when it operates not as a dividing power in society,
social ranking of the family determines how successful they but as a force for virtue and decency. Darcy is the primary
may reasonably expect to be in later life. Austen skillfully example of Austen's ideal high-class gentleman. Though
reveals how individual character is molded within the family by originally he seems to be an arrogant and selfish snob, as the
presenting Jane and Elizabeth as mature, intelligent adults, and novel progresses it becomes clear that he is capable of change.
Lydia as a hapless fool. The friction between Elizabeth and her Eventually, thanks to Elizabeth's influence and criticism, he
mother on the one hand and the sympathy she shares with Mr. combines his natural generosity with the integrity that he
Bennet on the other illustrate the emotional spectrum that considers a crucial attribute of all upper-class people. He
colors the family's overall character. The influence of befriends the Gardiners and plays a key role in helping the
Elizabeth's aunt and uncle shows how the family works in an ungrateful Lydia out of her crisis. The marriage of Darcy and
extended sense, with the Gardiners acting as substitute Elizabeth shows that class restrictions, while rigid, do not
parents, providing much needed emotional support at key determine one's character, and that love can overcome all
moments of stress. obstacles, including class.
4 MARRIAGE SYMBOLS
Pride and Prejudice is a love story, but its author is also
concerned with pointing out the inequality that governs the Symbols appear in red text throughout the Summary and
relationships between men and women and how it affects Analysis sections of this LitChart.
women's choices and options regarding marriage. Austen
portrays a world in which choices for individuals are very HOUSES
limited, based almost exclusively on a family's social rank and Throughout Pride and Prejudice, Austen pays particular
connections. To be born a woman into such a world means attention to the manner and style of many of the characters'
having even less choice about whom to marry or how to homes or estates. A small-scale home like the Bennets' is
determine the shape of one's life. The way that society controls presented as a suitable, if modest, dwelling place in which to
and weakens women helps to explain in part Mrs. Bennet's raise five daughters. Though it's somewhat plain, it's still
hysteria about marrying off her daughters, and why such respectable. In contrast, larger manors like Bingley's at
marriages must always involve practical, financial Netherfield Park, Lady Catherine's estate of Rosings, or
considerations. As members of the upper class, the Bennet
Darcy's palatial home of Pemberley are showcases for their
sisters are not expected to work or make a career for
owner's enormous wealth and are conspicuous symbols of
themselves. Yet as women they are not allowed to inherit
social prestige. Elizabeth's reaction on first seeing Pemberley
anything. As a result, marriage is basically their only option for
and her imagining how it would be to live there illustrates that
attaining wealth and social standing. Yet Austen is also critical
even her calm, cool sense of detachment is awed by the beauty
of women who marry solely for security, like Charlotte. The and size of the estate. In a way, houses and estates function as
ideal for her is represented by Elizabeth, who refuses to trade the outward signs of their owner's inward character. They carry
her independence for financial comfort and in the end marries an almost spiritual significance. Rosings may be grand, but it
for love. does not possess the tasteful elegance of Pemberley.
Elizabeth's elevation from Longbourn to Pemberley marks not
5 CLASS only a rise in her social position, but an advance in her moral
Class is the target of much of the novel's criticism of society in growth as well.
general. Austen makes it clear that people like Lady Catherine,
who are overly invested in their social position, are guilty of
mistreating other people. Other characters, like the suck-up
Mr. Collins and the scheming Caroline, are depicted as

•Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy)
QUO
QUOTES
TES Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy
The color-coded and numbered boxes under each quote below •Related themes
themes: Pride, Marriage, Class
make it easy to track the themes related to each quote. Each •Theme T
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in the Themes section of this LitChart. 1 4 5
CHAPTER 1 QUOTES CHAPTER 15 QUOTES

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in Having now a good house and a very sufficient income, [Mr.
possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. Collins] intended to marry ... he meant to choose one of the
daughters, if he found them as handsome and amiable as they
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and he thought it an excellent one, full of eligibility and
4 5 suitableness, and excessively generous and disinterested on his
own part.
CHAPTER 3 QUOTES •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Mr. Collins
His character was decided. He was the proudest, most
•Related themes
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disagreeable man in the world, and everybody hoped that he
would never come there again. •Theme T
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When Mr. Wickham walked into the room, Elizabeth felt that
1 2 she had neither been seeing him before, nor thinking of him
since, with the smallest degree of unreasonable admiration.
CHAPTER 4 QUOTES The officers of the —shire were in general a very creditable,
gentlemanlike set, and the best of them were of the present
Oh! you are a great deal too apt, you know, to like people in
party; but Mr. Wickham was as far beyond them all in person,
general. You never see a fault in anybody. All the world are good
countenance, air, and walk.
and agreeable in your eyes. I never heard you speak ill of a
human being in your life. •Mentioned or related char
characters
Bennet, George Wickham
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themes: Prejudice
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acters: Jane Bennet
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2 3
CHAPTER 19 QUOTES
CHAPTER 7 QUOTES Your portion is unhappily so small that it will in all likelihood
undo the effects of your loveliness and amiable qualifications.
Darcy had at first scarcely allowed her to be pretty ... But no As I must therefore conclude that you are not serious in your
sooner had he made it clear to himself and his friends that she rejection of me, I shall choose to attribute it to your wish of
hardly had a good feature in her face, than he began to find it increasing my love by suspense, according to the usual practice
was rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful of elegant females.
expression of her dark eyes ... he was forced to acknowledge
her figure to be light and pleasing; and in spite of his asserting •Speak
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that her manners were not those of the fashionable world, he •Mentioned or related char
characters
was caught by their easy playfulness. Bennet
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on the subject of tenderness than of pride. His sense of her
4 5 inferiority—of its being a degradation—of the family obstacles
which had always opposed to inclination, were dwelt on with a
CHAPTER 22 QUOTES warmth which seemed due to the consequence he was
wounding
Mr. Collins, to be sure, was neither sensible nor agreeable; his
society was irksome, and his attachment to her must be •Speak
•Speaker
er: Fitzwilliam Darcy
imaginary. But still he would be her husband. Without thinking •Mentioned or related char
characters
highly either of men or matrimony, marriage had always been Bennet
her object; it was the only provision for well-educated young
women of small fortune, and however uncertain of giving •Related themes
themes: Pride, Marriage, Class
happiness, must be their pleasantest preservative from want. •Theme T
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acters: Mr. Collins 1 4 5
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I, who have prided myself on my discernment!—I, who have
4 5
valued myself on my abilities! who have often disdained the
generous candour of my sister, and gratified my vanity in
CHAPTER 29 QUOTES useless or blameable mistrust.—How humiliating is this
Her air was not conciliating, nor was her manner of receiving discovery!—Yet, how just a humiliation! ... Pleased with the
them such as to make her visitors forget their inferior rank. She preference of one, and offended by the neglect of the other, on
was not rendered formidable by silence; but whatever she said the very beginning of our acquaintance, I have courted
was spoken in so authoritative a tone, as marked her self- prepossession and ignorance, and driven reason away, where
importance either were concerned. Till this moment, I never knew myself.

characters
acters: Lady Catherine de Bourgh •Mentioned or related char
characters
Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy, George Wickham
•Related themes
themes: Pride, Class
•Related themes
themes: Pride, Prejudice
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CHAPTER 33 QUOTES
CHAPTER 40 QUOTES
If his own vanity, however, did not mislead him, he was the
cause, his pride and caprice were the cause, of all that Jane had There certainly was some great mismanagement in the
suffered, and still continued to suffer. He had ruined for a while education of those two young men. One has got all the
every hope of happiness for the most affectionate, generous goodness, and the other all the appearance of it.
heart in the world; and no one could say how lasting an evil he •Speak
•Speaker
might have inflicted.
characters
acters: Fitzwilliam Darcy, George
characters
acters: Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy) Wickham
Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy, Jane Bennet •Related themes
themes: Prejudice
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CHAPTER 41 QUOTES
CHAPTER 34 QUOTES Our importance, our respectability in the world must be
"In vain I have struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be affected by the wild volatility, the assurance and disdain of all
repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire restraint which mark Lydia's character. Excuse me—for I must
and love you." ... He spoke well; but there were feelings besides speak plainly. If you, my dear father, will not take the trouble of

checking her exuberant spirits, and of teaching her that her •Related themes
themes: Family, Marriage
present pursuits are not to be the business of her life, she will •Theme T
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soon be beyond the reach of amendment.
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acters: Mr. Bennet, Lydia Bennet
CHAPTER 48 QUOTES
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The death of your daughter would have been a blessing in
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2 3 this false step in one daughter will be injurious to the fortunes
of all the others; for who, as Lady Catherine herself
condescendingly says, will connect themselves with such a
CHAPTER 43 QUOTES family?
Elizabeth was delighted. She had never seen a place for which
•Speak
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er: Mr. Collins
nature had done more, or where natural beauty had been so
little counteracted by an awkward taste. They were all of them •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Mr. Bennet, Lydia Bennet,
warm in their admiration; and at that moment she felt that to Lady Catherine de Bourgh
be mistress of Pemberley might be something! •Related themes
themes: Pride, Prejudice, Family, Marriage, Class
characters
acters: Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy) •Theme T
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4 5 It is all very right; who should do it but her own uncle? If he had
not had a family of his own, I and my children must have had all
his money, you know; and it is the first time we have ever had
CHAPTER 44 QUOTES anything from him, except a few presents. Well! I am so happy!
When she saw him thus seeking the acquaintance and courting In a short time I shall have a daughter married. Mrs. Wickham!
the good opinion of people with whom any intercourse a few How well it sounds!
months ago would have been a disgrace—when she saw him
thus civil, not only to herself, but to the very relations whom he •Speak
•Speaker
er: Mrs. Bennet
had openly disdained ... the difference, the change was so great, •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: George Wickham, Lydia
and struck so forcibly on her mind, that she could hardly Bennet, Mr. Gardiner
restrain her astonishment from being visible. •Related themes
themes: Family, Marriage
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acters: Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy) •Theme T
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CHAPTER 52 QUOTES
1 2 4 5 They owed the restoration of Lydia, her character, every thing,
to him. Oh! how heartily did she grieve over every ungracious
CHAPTER 47 QUOTES sensation she had ever encouraged, every saucy speech she
had ever directed towards him. For herself she was humbled;
Unhappy as the event must be for Lydia, we may draw from it
but she was proud of him. Proud that in a cause of compassion
this useful lesson: that loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable;
and honour, he had been able to get the better of himself.
that one false step involves her in endless ruin; that her
reputation is no less brittle than it is beautiful; and that she •Mentioned or related char
characters
cannot be too much guarded in her behaviour towards the Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy, Lydia Bennet
undeserving of the other sex. •Related themes
themes: Pride, Prejudice, Class
•Speak
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characters
acters: Lydia Bennet

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CHAPTER 55 QUOTES
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in spite of his being a lover, Elizabeth really believed all his
expectations of felicity to be rationally founded, because they 1 4
had for basis the excellent understanding, and super-excellent
disposition of Jane, and a general similarity of feeling and taste
between her and himself.
CHAPTER 59 QUOTES
I know that you could be neither happy nor respectable, unless
characters
acters: Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy) you truly esteemed your husband; unless you looked up to him
Bennet, Jane Bennet, Charles Bingley as a superior. Your lively talents would place you in the greatest
•Related themes
themes: Family, Marriage danger in an unequal marriage ... My child, let me not have the
•Theme T
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•Speak
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3 4
characters
Bennet
CHAPTER 56 QUOTES
•Related themes
themes: Pride, Prejudice, Family, Marriage
I have said no such thing. I am only resolved to act in that
manner, which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, •Theme T
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without reference to you, or to any person so wholly
1 2 3 4
unconnected with me.
•Speak
•Speaker
er: Elizabeth (Eliza, Lizzy) Bennet CHAPTER 60 QUOTES
characters
acters: Lady Catherine de Bourgh The fact is, that you were sick of civility, of deference, of
•Related themes
themes: Pride, Marriage, Class officious attention. You were disgusted with the women who
•Theme T
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code: were always speaking, and looking, and thinking for your
approbation alone. I roused, and interested you, because I was
1 4 5 so unlike them.
•Speak
•Speaker
CHAPTER 57 QUOTES •Mentioned or related char
characters
acters: Fitzwilliam Darcy
That is what makes it amusing. Had they fixed on any other man
•Related themes
themes: Prejudice, Marriage
it would have been nothing; but his perfect indifference, and
your pointed dislike, make it so delightfully absurd! •Theme T
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characters
SUMMARY AND ANAL
ANALYSIS
YSIS
•Related themes
themes: Prejudice
•Theme T
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code: The color-coded and numbered boxes under each row of
Summary and Analysis below make it easy to track the themes
2 throughout the work. Each color and number corresponds to
one of the themes explained in the Themes section of this
LitChart.
CHAPTER 58 QUOTES
What do I not owe you! You taught me a lesson, hard indeed at
first, but most advantageous. By you, I was properly humbled. I
came to you without a doubt of my reception. You showed me
how insufficient were all my pretensions to please a woman
worthy of being pleased.

CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 3
The narrator begins with the One of the most famous lines in Mr. Bingley pays a return visit Austen focuses on just a few
statement: "It is a truth literature, the opening to Mr. Bennet and is families of different status—the
universally acknowledged, that establishes the pursuit of subsequently invited to dinner extremely wealthy upper class
a single man in possession of a marriage as central to the social at Longbourn. Elaborate plans (Bingley and Darcy) and the less
good fortune, must be in want world of the English gentry. In are made, but Bingley breaks wealthy country gentry (the
of a wife." Then the narrator addition, the claim that a them because of urgent Bennets)—in order to reveal the
begins the story. One day in wealthy man must be looking for business in London. He soon class dynamics of her society on
their modest house in a wife shows how desperately returns, however, along with a small scale.
Longbourn, Mrs. Bennet important it was for women to his sister Mrs. Hurst and her
shares some news with her marry wealthy men. In Austen's husband, his youngest sister 3 5
husband, Mr. Bennet. A time, they had no other means of Caroline, and his friend Darcy
wealthy young gentleman, support. for the upcoming ball.
Charles Bingley, has just
3 4 5 The ball takes place at Balls were among the few
rented the nearby estate of
Meryton, where the locals socially acceptable venues for
Netherfield. Mrs. Bennet
gossip about the newcomers. mingling between the sexes. Here
twitters with excitement
Darcy is handsome but proud the locals make character
because she wants him to
and aloof. Bingley makes judgments based on appearances
meet her daughters and
friends with everyone, dancing and first impressions.
hopefully marry one.
every dance, including several
Mrs. Bennet asks her husband In terms of taking an interest in with Jane, which makes the 1 2 4
to get them an introduction. their daughters' futures, Mr. Bennets very happy.
Mr. Bennet purposely Bennet and Mrs. Bennet are
Elizabeth overhears Bingley Initially prideful, Darcy doesn't
frustrates his wife by polar opposites: she gets involved
tell Darcy that Jane is the think these country people are
sarcastically replying that he'll while he remains distant and
most beautiful girl he's ever good enough for him. Elizabeth
write to give his consent for makes jokes.
seen. Bingley demands that has pride, too: though looks
Bingley to marry any of his
3 4 Darcy find someone to dance aren't everything to her, Darcy's
daughters, especially
with, and suggests Elizabeth. insult still stings.
Elizabeth, whom he considers
Darcy says she isn't pretty
especially bright. 1 5
enough for him. Elizabeth
overhears, and is annoyed.
CHAPTER 2
Returning home, Mrs. Bennet Mrs. Bennet's attitude toward
Without telling his family, Mr. It was inappropriate for women regales her husband with an Darcy and Bingley is already
Bennet visits Bingley. Back at to seek a direct introduction to abundance of details. She is fixed, showing how strong
home, Mr. Bennet teases his men, so Mr. Bennet must initially excited for Jane and convinced prejudices can be once formed.
family by pretending to be act as the mediator. Mr. Bennet's of Bingley's interest in her, and
uninterested in Bingley's visit shows that even he detests Darcy for his attitude 2 3 4
arrival, only to then reveal his recognizes the importance of about Elizabeth.
visit by asking Elizabeth when making a match.
the next ball is scheduled and
promising to introduce her to 3 4 CHAPTER 4
Bingley beforehand. Upstairs, Jane and Elizabeth Elizabeth is quick to judge and is
talk more openly about their unimpressed by the higher class.
Mrs. Bennet is delighted and An early sign of Mrs. Bennet's
admiration for Bingley's looks, On the other hand, Jane refuses
praises her husband and his fickle character. She can snap
humor, and manners. Jane is to judge anyone badly, which
little joke. She promises all the from disapproval to approval.
reluctant to say anything bad makes her seem angelic but also
girls that they'll get a chance to
3 4 about Bingley's sisters, but naÏve.
dance with Bingley.
Elizabeth is skeptical of them.
She thinks they are educated 1 2 3 4 5
and polished, but conceited.

The narrator explains £100,000 is a lot of money, Mary pompously lectures the Mary represents a very strict by-
Bingley's background: he has a making Bingley very high class. group about human nature. the-book type of morality that,
respectable family; he At the same time, Bingley's lack She clarifies that pride is self- Austen makes clear, needs to be
inherited £100,000 and may of a home reflects his immaturity regard while vanity concerns tempered with experience.
be looking to buy an estate; and lack of confidence in his what others think of you.
and he's renting Netherfield in decisions. 1 3
the meantime. His sisters, Mrs.
Hurst and Caroline, are very 4 5 CHAPTER 6
happy to follow him around.
Bingley's sisters soon start Social interaction among gentry
Bingley and Darcy's friendship Novels about marriages are exchanging visits with Jane had to follow precise guidelines,
is explained as a meeting of frequently concerned with and Elizabeth. Elizabeth making it difficult to discern how
opposites: Bingley's easy bringing two parties with suspects they are only nice to people really felt. Elizabeth must
manner and Darcy's more different characteristics into Jane because of Bingley, read between the lines.
stringent personality. Bingley harmony. Friends like Bingley whose admiration for Jane
deeply respects Darcy's and Darcy are also opposites: seems to grow with every 2 4 5
judgment. But their each has some admirable and meeting.
demeanors are different. some weak traits that the other
Suspecting that Jane is falling Elizabeth believes that an
Anywhere they go, Bingley is helps to expose and resolve.
in love, Elizabeth admires her individual should act with dignity
sociable and well-liked, while
2 sister's composure. She and follow his or her feelings. In
Darcy is always so aloof that
privately mentions it to Charlotte's view, one's dignity
he offends people. After the
Charlotte Lucas, who warns and emotions must come second
ball, Bingley was delighted
that women who don't show to the pragmatic concerns of
with the locals (especially
their affection risk losing the finding financial security through
Jane) but Darcy considered
objects of it. Elizabeth marriage.
them plain and uninteresting.
considers this attitude too
businesslike; besides, Jane 3 4
CHAPTER 5 can't know her true feelings
The next morning, the Bennet The Lucas family can sympathize yet. Charlotte replies that
women walk over to discuss with the Bennets because their happiness in marriage happens
the ball with their neighbors: daughters will also need only by chance.
Sir William Lucas, Lady Lucas, husbands. Meanwhile, as he spends more Darcy was prejudiced against
and Charlotte, who is their time with her, Darcy begins to Elizabeth because of her lower
eldest daughter and is 3 4
notice Elizabeth's beauty and social standing, but time and
Elizabeth's close friend. verve. At a party, Sir William exposure starts to change his first
Everyone agrees that Bingley Here Charlotte suggests that Lucas tries to set up Darcy and impressions. This shift shows
liked Jane. The conversation pride isn't always bad. Indeed, Elizabeth to dance, but she Darcy's capacity to change. Even
quickly shifts to Darcy. pride can help protect a family refuses. Later, Darcy tells so, he still deplores Elizabeth's
Apparently he offended reputation, or can provide the Caroline that Elizabeth has family's behavior and can't
everyone who tried to speak motivation to help people. captured his admiration, imagine joining their family
with him. Charlotte consoles Charlotte also implies that though to Caroline's relief he through marriage.
Elizabeth about Darcy's insult sometimes men's faults have to seems to show no interest in
be overlooked when you're on marrying Elizabeth and gaining 1 2
and wishes he would have
agreed to a dance, but she the hunt for a husband. Mrs. Bennet as a mother-in-
adds that Darcy's pride may be law.
forgiven because of his high 1 2 4 5
standing and fortune.
Elizabeth responds that she
could forgive his pride if he
hadn't insulted her own.

CHAPTER 7 Elizabeth returns downstairs By choosing books over the
in the evening, choosing to social fluff of cards, Elizabeth
Soon after, Kitty and Lydia Compared to gentlemen like
look through some books shows her inner substance. Plus
Bennet are thrilled to learn Bingley and Darcy, military
instead of joining in cards. she has the common sense to
that a military regiment is officers offered a slightly less but
Caroline, who has been recognize the foolishness of
being stationed in Meryton. still respectable option for
absorbed with Darcy, asks him society's unreasonable ideals
They make frequent visits to marrying.
about his estate, Pemberley, about women. And she has the
Mrs. Philips to learn all they courage to say so in company.
3 4 5 and about his sister, who she
can about the officers. Mr. These characteristics distinguish
deems a very accomplished
Bennet dismisses the girls as her more than useless
woman. Darcy says he knows
incredibly silly. accomplishments would.
few women who are really
A letter arrives to Jane from Mrs. Bennet is so desperate to accomplished. Elizabeth asks
Caroline Bingley inviting her get Jane married to a wealthy his definition of the term and, 1 3 5
to visit. Mrs. Bennet schemes man that she's willing to risk her stunned by the long list of
to send Jane on horseback, daughter's health by denying her qualifications, expresses witty
even though it will rain, so that shelter from the storm. surprise that Darcy could
she will have to spend the know anyone who with all of
night at Netherfield. 3 4 those characteristics.
The next morning, Jane sends While Elizabeth displays great When Elizabeth leaves again, Ironic, because that's actually
Elizabeth a letter explaining loyalty to her sister, her Caroline accuses her of using what Caroline is doing. Caroline
that she caught a bad cold in appearance strikes Bingley's mean tactics to raise her own wants Darcy, and puts down
the storm. Elizabeth walks the sisters as undignified. Darcy status. others to elevate herself in his
three miles to Netherfield to might have thought the same eyes.
care for Jane, arriving dirty thing before, but now his view of
and tired. Caroline later mocks Elizabeth is influenced by his 2 5
Elizabeth's appearance, but growing feelings for her.
Darcy is moved by the glow of CHAPTER 9
exercise on Elizabeth's face. 1 2 3 5
Elizabeth sends home a note Mrs. Bennet continues her
Jane's condition soon worsens
requesting that her mother ridiculous and manipulative
and Elizabeth is invited to stay
come and visit Jane. Mrs. campaign to "win" Bingley for
at Netherfield too.
Bennet arrives with Lydia and, Jane.
not wishing Jane to leave
CHAPTER 8 Bingley's company, declares 3 4
During the conversation at Elizabeth continues to value that Jane seems worse than
dinner, Elizabeth accepts, but character over class. She seems ever.
sees through, the empty to have good intuition about In conversation, Mrs. Bennet, By talking up the Bennets' status,
concern that Mrs. Hurst and people's true character. seeking to raise Jane's status, Mrs. Bennet actually degrades it
Caroline show for Jane. Still, tries to impress Bingley about by seeming crass, foolishly proud,
she is grateful to Bingley for 2 3 5
her family and their situation and clearly not of the best class
his sincere interest in Jane. in the country. Darcy suggests or character. If you're high class,
When Elizabeth returns The high class women show their that one finds more variety of you don't need to tell others
upstairs, Mrs. Hurst and prejudice. Though Mrs. Hurst character in town than in the about it—they just know.
Caroline criticize her looks, speaks as if in sympathy with country, but Mrs. Bennet
loudly objects. Everyone is 1 2 3 5
manners, and judgment. Mrs. Jane, she's deviously trying to
Hurst says she does really like ruin the chances of either Bennet surprised. Elizabeth is
Jane, but that her family sister by mentioning their "family mortified and tries her best to
situation—having few situation." fill the awkward silence.
connections and no
money—will block her hopes of 1 2 3 4 5
making a good match. Darcy
agrees.

Lydia jumps in to remind Lydia's insistence is impolite. CHAPTER 11
Bingley of his promise to give a Bingley, with his better breeding,
That evening, Jane is well Conversation, books, walks:
ball at Netherfield. Bingley turns it into a compliment to
enough to join the group. these are the few tools of
says he hasn't forgotten but Jane.
Bingley dotes on her and talks seduction in Austen's world.
will wait until Jane recovers.
4 to no one else. Caroline, Caroline has to work to get
watching Darcy read, pretends Darcy's attention. But by doing
to be absorbed in reading a what comes natural to her,
CHAPTER 10 book. But she's soon bored and Elizabeth gets it anyway.
The next day, Elizabeth joins Whenever a character in P&P suggests to Elizabeth that they
the evening party in the tries to scheme their way to walk around the room 4
drawing room. Caroline looks social advantage, they invariably together. This gets Darcy's
on as Darcy tries to write a end up with the opposite result. attention.
letter. Trying to flatter him, she
4 Caroline invites Darcy to join Sexual attraction in the novel are
offers empty compliments
them, but he says he doesn't expressed only in little comments
about his writing, but only
want to interfere: they must like these. But it's definitely there.
manages to interrupt him.
either be sharing secrets or
Elizabeth and Darcy get into Darcy reiterates his pride in his showing off—in which case 4
an argument about Bingley's own beliefs. Elizabeth pridefully he's happy to watch.
character. Darcy says that believes that she considers other
Elizabeth advises Caroline Darcy incorrectly identifies his
people should always follow people's views, but events will
that the best response is to own flaw, which is the immense
their convictions. Elizabeth show that she really just follows
laugh at what is ridiculous, pride he takes in himself and his
counters that sometimes her own prejudices.
which leads to a discussion of social standing. But he correctly
regard for others must modify
1 2 the aspects of Darcy's diagnoses Elizabeth's: she
one's conduct. But Bingley,
character that might be believes so fully in her own ability
hating conflict, stops them.
ridiculed. Darcy claims that his to see to the heart of things that
As Bingley's sisters sing at the Elizabeth attracts Darcy by main fault is that "my good she becomes subject to her
piano, Elizabeth notices that standing up to him. Yet class and opinion once lost is lost prejudices and blinds herself to
she seems to fascinate Darcy. pride are so important for Darcy forever." When Elizabeth the truth.
He asks her to dance and she that attraction alone won't retorts that it is difficult to
playfully refuses. Still, Darcy is suffice. laugh at a "propensity to hate 1 2
bewitched: he thinks that if it every body," Darcy says that if
wasn't for her lowly 1 4 5 his defect is holding grudges,
connections, he might fall in Elizabeth's is
love. misunderstanding people.
Caroline is increasingly Caroline tries to exploit Darcy's
jealous. The next day, she takes pride in the integrity of his family CHAPTER 12
Darcy on a walk to tease him to protect her chances with him. Elizabeth and Jane write to Mrs. Bennet's schemes to get
about marrying Elizabeth and Mrs. Bennet to send their Jane married to Bingley force her
about the awful family he 1 2 3 4 5
carriage to take them home. daughters to be beggars, making
would join. Mrs. Bennet, still scheming to the Bennet family as a whole
have them stay, replies that it look bad.
isn't available. So Elizabeth and
Jane have to borrow Bingley's 3 4 5
carriage instead.
Darcy is relieved: he is starting Darcy has not overcome his
to worry that his attraction to prejudice against the Bennet's
Elizabeth might show, so he low connections.
remains distant for the short
remainder of her stay. 2

Though Mrs. Bennet is Mr. Bennet wants to ignore his CHAPTER 14
disappointed that Jane and younger daughters' interest in
After dinner, Mr. Bennet gets Although a clergyman, Mr.
Elizabeth didn't stay, Mr. the regiment, to remain detached
Mr. Collins talking about his Collins is obsessed with the
Bennet is glad to have them from anything that strikes him as
favorite subjects: his worldly glories of wealth and
back. He had missed their ridiculous. This will come back to
benefactress, Lady Catherine rank. Mr. Collins himself seems to
conversation amid Kitty and haunt him.
De Bourgh; her lavish estate, have no center. He lives only to
Lydia's infatuation with
3 Rosings; and the invalid please Lady De Bourgh.
anything related to the
daughter who will inherit it all.
regiment. 1 3 5
Mr. Bennet sits back to enjoy
the absurdity of Mr. Collins's
CHAPTER 13 hollow praise and self-
The next morning, Mr. Bennet Collins is Mr. Bennet's heir importance.
reveals to his family that they because women weren't allowed Mr. Bennet invites Mr. Collins Austen uses Mr. Collin's distaste
will have a surprise guest: Mr. to inherit. This explains Mrs. to read to the ladies. Offered a for novels to poke fun at the
Collins, the relative who will Bennet's obsession about getting novel, Mr. Collins flinches in then-common prejudice against
inherit Mr. Bennet's estate. her daughters married. It was the disgust and chooses instead a the immorality of novels. But Mr.
The news upsets Mrs. Bennet only way to ensure their financial book of sermons. Lydia, Collins' readiness to play a board
because Mr. Collins can legally security, and her own if her refusing to listen to this, game instead of reading the
kick Mrs. Bennet and her husband died before she did. interrupts with bits of news scripture shows his shallow
daughters out of the house about Colonel Forster. Mr. commitment to the gospel.
when Mr. Bennet dies. But the 3 5
Collins seems insulted, but
tone of reconciliation in Mr. accepts the family's apologies 2 3
Collins' letter consoles her. and joins Mr. Bennet in a game
The letter explains that Mr. Mr. Collins gets ahead in the of backgammon.
Collins is now a parish rector world not through his own
and enjoys the patronage of virtues, but by sucking up to the CHAPTER 15
Lady Catherine De rich and by his almost arbitrary
Mr. Collins has come to Mr. Collins' plan falls far short of
Bourgh—whose wealth and future inheritance of the
Longbourn with a plan to providing the Bennet girls with
generosity Mr. Collins Bennet's property.
marry one of the Bennet any kind of self-determination. In
tirelessly compliments. He
1 3 5 sisters. He believes that doing addition, though he poses as a
now seeks to make peace in
so will atone for the injustice of man of convictions, his love
the family by some unspecified
his taking over their interest can change in the blink
plan.
inheritance. He privately tells of an eye.
When Mr. Collins arrives, he is Austen makes Mr. Collins a Mrs. Bennet his intentions,
heavy, pompous, and dull. His ridiculous comic figure, in the and she redirects his target 1 3 4
conversation is weighted with process mocking all suck-ups. from Jane, whom she hopes
overwrought compliments and will marry Bingley, to
vague hints about making 1 3 Elizabeth. Mr. Collins
amends to the Bennet obligingly agrees to shift his
daughters. focus.
Mr. Collins joins the Bennet Wickham is a master of first
sisters in a walk to Meryton. impressions. As such, he tests
There, everyone's attention is Elizabeth's belief that she can
captured by a striking and see through lies and falseness to
unfamiliar young man: Mr. uncover the truth in things.
Wickham, who just accepted a
post in the regiment. 1 2
Wickham's conversation is
friendly and lively.

Just then, Bingley and Darcy Austen creates tension here: the Wickham, hearing Mr. Collins Such an arranged marriage
come up the street and stop to details Elizabeth most wants to go on about Lady Catherine, would have been no surprise to
chat. When Darcy and know are the one she can't ask informs Elizabeth that Lady Elizabeth. Lady Catherine seems
Wickham see each other, each about, out of politeness. At this Catherine is actually Darcy's to share Darcy's pride in their
man recoils in shock. Elizabeth point, Elizabeth seems to like aunt. He adds that Lady extreme high class status.
wonders how they know each Wickham in part because he Catherine apparently hopes to
other. Mr. Collins and the causes Darcy discomfort. marry Darcy to her daughter. 1 4 5
Bennet sisters then go to visit
Mrs. Philips who invites them 2
CHAPTER 17
to dinner the next night. The
girls convince her to invite The next day, Elizabeth tells Elizabeth dismisses Jane for only
Wickham too. Jane what she learned. Jane seeing the good in people. Yet at
cannot believe that Darcy the same time, Elizabeth bases
could be so blameworthy and her own preference for Wickham
CHAPTER 16 that there must be other parts entirely on his looks and on her
At dinner the next evening, On the surface, Wickham is to the story. But Elizabeth own pride in her ability to read
Elizabeth is fascinated by pleasant and well-mannered. believes Wickham, saying people.
Wickham's pleasant Elizabeth will remember later "there was truth in his looks."
demeanor. The two of them that while Wickham says he She wonders how Bingley 1 2
easily fall into conversation withholds an opinion on Darcy, could actually be Darcy's
and Wickham soon asks about he soon goes ahead and gives friend.
Darcy. Elizabeth says he is one. But Elizabeth is under his
Bingley and his sisters visit Dancing is the closest thing to
widely disliked for his pride. spell and does not notice now.
Longbourn with an invitation intimate physical contact
Wickham withholds an opinion
2 3 to a ball at Netherfield. Lydia allowed between unmarried
out of respect for Darcy's
and Kitty are overjoyed. Jane people. It's a thrill.
father, who Wickham reveals
is excited to see Bingley, while
was his godfather and dear 4
Elizabeth looks forward to
friend.
dancing with Wickham, though
Wickham explains that he was With close relations to her own Mr. Collins requests that she
the son of one of Darcy's siblings and a keen sense of give him the first two dances,
father's employees, and that justice, Elizabeth is predisposed which she must do out of
he and Darcy grew up to believe Wickham's story. The politeness.
together. Darcy's father died story also fits perfectly with her
and left Wickham money to own existing prejudices about
CHAPTER 18
pursue a career in the ministry, Darcy.
but Darcy, who was jealous of Arriving at the ball at Because Elizabeth is set in her
his father's love for Wickham, 2 3 Netherfield, Elizabeth is own prejudice, she interprets
found a loophole and refused disappointed to realize that everything against Darcy and
to give Wickham the money. Wickham is not at the party. blames him for everything.
Elizabeth is shocked and Elizabeth blames Darcy for
Wickham's absence. She 2
appalled.
endures two dreadful dances
Elizabeth asks about Darcy's This is a lie, but Wickham is on a with Mr. Collins.
sister, Georgiana. Wickham roll. He's trying to separate
says that she is an himself from his former victim Darcy then asks Elizabeth for Darcy's dance invite shows his
accomplished young woman and degrade her, too. a dance. Caught by surprise, growing feelings for Elizabeth.
living in London but that she is, she accepts. Their But now Elizabeth's prejudice
like her brother, distastefully 1 3 conversation is short and against him is in full effect.
proud. abrupt. Darcy is
uncomfortable when she 2
brings up Wickham.

Afterwards, Caroline Elizabeth now has evidence, Elizabeth interrupts to decline, Mr. Collins makes a valid point:
approaches Elizabeth about from various sources, that it was but Mr. Collins responds that based on her family and
Wickham. He wasn't wronged Wickham, not Darcy, in the women will typically reject an situation, Elizabeth isn't likely to
by Darcy, she says. On the wrong. But Elizabeth pridefully offer two or three times. He get a better offer. By declining his
contrary, Wickham treated chooses to go with her prejudices goes on to say that Elizabeth offer, she is giving up her family's
Darcy terribly and now Darcy against Darcy and for Wickham. should accept him because best hope to hold on to their
has nothing to do with him. she's not likely ever to get a home. Even so, Elizabeth believes
Jane, who has been speaking 1 2 better offer. Elizabeth insists too strongly in love to agree to
to Bingley, tells Elizabeth the that she's serious, that she and marry a man whom she doesn't
same story: the fault, whatever Mr. Collins could not make even like.
it is, was Wickham's. But each other happy. He doesn't
Elizabeth refuses to believe it. understand. In exasperation, 1 3 4 5
she leaves the room.
The rest of the evening is a Elizabeth and Jane have a social
disaster. Mr. Collins rudely grace that their family members
introduces himself to Darcy sorely lack. If Darcy's major CHAPTER 20
and later pontificates to the concern about Elizabeth was her Mrs. Bennet rushes in to Although women could refuse a
whole assembly. Darcy family, the Bennets do everything congratulate Mr. Collins but is proposal, they were not expected
overhears Mrs. Bennet talking to prove that his prejudice shocked to hear that Elizabeth to. Elizabeth shows her
about Jane and Bingley like against them is accurate. refused him. She runs to Mr. dedication to her happiness.
they're already married. Mary Bennet and demands that he
insists on playing the piano, 1 2 3 4 5 3 4
convince his daughter to
and does so awfully. And Mrs. accept.
Bennet conspires to be the last
to leave. Realizing that her Mr. Bennet calmly calls in Mr. Bennet deeply respects his
family's reputation is falling Elizabeth and, relishing the daughter's intelligence. They
moment, tells her: "Your share an ability to perceive the
lower than ever, Elizabeth is
mother will never see you absurdity in the world.
mortified.
again if you do not marry Mr.
Collins, and I will never you 1 3 4
CHAPTER 19 see you again if you do."
The next morning, Mr. Collins Mr. Collins wants to marry
Outraged, Mrs. Bennet tries to In contrast, Mrs. Bennet doesn't
asks for a private meeting with because of outside pressures. As
find support from anyone else: really care about Elizabeth's
Elizabeth. The rest of the he explains his reason for
Jane, who keeps out of it, and happiness. She treats her
family scrambles out of the marrying, it becomes clear that
then Charlotte Lucas, who has daughters like chess pieces in a
room. When they are alone, his wife will be merely an
just arrived to visit. But it's too match-making game. Only
Mr. Collins explains in detail ornament in the "respectable" life
late. Mr. Collins soon explains marriage matters to her.
his two main reasons for he's creating for himself.
to Mrs. Bennet that, though
seeking marriage: all 1 2 3 4
1 3 4 5 he's not insulted, he has
clergymen should marry, and
changed his mind about
Lady Catherine told him to do
wanting to marry Elizabeth.
it. He details his income and
stresses his future wife's
association with Lady CHAPTER 21
Catherine. Mr. Collins prolongs his stay, Mr. Collins wastes no time in
acting coldly to Elizabeth and changing the object of his
transferring his attention to shallow affection yet again.
Charlotte Lucas.
1

One morning, the Bennet Since she's interested in Charlotte privately tells Elizabeth thinks she could never
sisters walk to Meryton and Wickham, Elizabeth believes Elizabeth that she's engaged, marry just for financial
meet Wickham who confirms everything he says. An and that all she wants is a advantage. But the reasons to
to Elizabeth that he was introduction to her parents is comfortable home. Elizabeth is marry are complicated. Even
avoiding Darcy at the ball. He significant: it sets the stage for stunned but wishes Charlotte Elizabeth will later have a strong
walks them home and courtship. happiness. Afterwards, attraction to Darcy's magnificent
Elizabeth introduces him to Elizabeth is disappointed that estate.
her parents. 2 3 her friend is humiliating
herself, having "sacrificed 2 3 4
A letter from Caroline Bingley Elizabeth can read between the
every better feeling to worldly
arrives for Jane, who reads it lines to discern what's really
advantage."
in distress. Upstairs, Jane going on. Caroline wants to
shares the contents of the prevent Jane from going any
letter with Elizabeth. further with her brother because CHAPTER 23
Everyone at Netherfield has she does not want her own Sir William Lucas arrives to Lydia and Mrs. Bennet are
left for London, not to return family associated with the share his happy news. Mrs. ignorant of social graces.
for at least six months, if ever. Bennets for two reasons: she Bennet and Lydia rudely Elizabeth constantly has to set
Caroline ends the letter by disdains them; and she believes exclaim that they cannot the example for her family.
saying that she will be that by marrying her brother to believe it, but Elizabeth
delighted to see Georgiana Georgiana she will improve her intervenes to congratulate him 1 3 4
Darcy again, who she hopes own chances with Georgiana's on the match.
will become Bingley's wife. brother, Darcy.
Jane is despondent and Mrs. Bennet fumes for days. Mrs. Bennet is so angry because
refuses to believe that, as 1 2 3 4 5 She is angry with Elizabeth, Elizabeth's rejection of Collins
Elizabeth explains, Caroline is the Lucases, and Charlotte, eliminates her only guarantee
trying to break her and Bingley who will someday displace that she would be able to stay in
up while also gaining better them at Longbourn. Her mood her house if Mr. Bennet should
worsens when Mr. Collins die.
footing with Darcy for herself.
Elizabeth does manage to returns to make wedding
arrangements. 1 3 4
convince Jane that she
shouldn't doubt Bingley's Meanwhile, Jane and Elizabeth senses that Bingley is
affections. Elizabeth start to worry not completely confident and
because Bingley has not might be swayed by the
CHAPTER 22 written. Jane writes to prejudices of others.
Caroline. Elizabeth believes in
Charlotte Lucas has been Charlotte contrasts with 2
Bingley truly cares for Jane,
attentive and encouraging to Elizabeth in putting her future
but fears that his sisters,
Mr. Collins. One morning he financial security before love. She
Darcy, and London will prove
sneaks out to her house and knows that marriage is her only
stronger than his love for Jane.
delivers a long-winded option to guard against a hard
marriage proposal. Aware of life.
his shortcomings but wanting CHAPTER 24
stability in her future, 4 5 Caroline writes back: Bingley Jane again insists on seeing only
Charlotte accepts. Her will certainly be gone for the bright side, denying even her
parents, seeing her fortunes awhile and everyone is own hurt feelings. It's the
rise so quickly, are thrilled. delighted with Darcy's sister, opposite of prejudice, but it
Georgiana. Jane tries to put makes her just as blind as the
on a brave face, telling prejudiced Elizabeth.
Elizabeth that Bingley has not
wronged her and refusing to 2
believe that Caroline has
ulterior motives.

Elizabeth is disgusted that Elizabeth complains that Bingley CHAPTER 26
Bingley could be so weak as to can't direct his own true feelings.
Having noticed the warmth Mrs. Gardiner recognizes the
let his sisters and friend This is ironic since Elizabeth's
between Elizabeth and hard reality of needing to marry
determine his affections. She affections and prejudices are
Wickham, Mrs. Gardiner into a secure situation. Elizabeth
cites him and Charlotte as being guided by Wickham's
cautions Elizabeth about is not convinced, and still is
examples of human suave lies.
making an unpromising match, focused mainly on finding love.
inconsistency. But Jane tells
1 2 warning that Wickham has no
Elizabeth she judges them too 1 4 5
fortune. Elizabeth can only
harshly.
promise that she won't rush
Wickham occasionally visits Mr. Bennet continually fails to into anything.
and his pleasant company understand what will be good for
Mr. Collins returns for his Elizabeth thinks that anyone
helps to dispel the gloom. Mr. his daughters.
marriage to Charlotte. Before who gives up the hope of love in
Bennet encourages Elizabeth
3 4 they leave, Charlotte makes exchange for stability
in her pursuit of Wickham.
Elizabeth agree to come visit. (particularly with a fool like
Once she is gone, Charlotte Collins) can't be anything but
CHAPTER 25 writes to Elizabeth frequently miserable.
Mr. Collins leaves again and The Gardiners represent the about her excellent situation
established middle class. They with Mr. Collins, but Elizabeth 2 4
Mrs. Bennet's brother and
wife, Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner, are a "lowly" family connection has her doubts.
arrive for a visit. Mr. Gardiner that might hurt the Bennet Jane travels with the Caroline knows that Jane and
is a tradesman in London. Mrs. sisters' prospects of marrying Gardiners to London and Bingley, if they saw each other,
Gardiner is intelligent and well. writes a letter to Elizabeth. would rekindle the spark. So
extremely well-liked by Jane She says that she wrote to while being careful to conform to
and Elizabeth. 3 5
Caroline but received no reply, the niceties of high class social
After listening sympathetically Mrs. Gardiner takes the place of and then visited Caroline but interaction, she at the same time
to Mrs. Bennet's outpouring of Mrs. Bennet in soothing and was coldly received. Now four does everything she can to
complaints, Mrs. Gardiner restoring the family. She weeks have passed and Jane discourage and denigrate Jane.
speaks with Elizabeth about represents a stronger, has heard nothing from
Bingley, and when Caroline 1 2 5
Jane's situation. Elizabeth sympathetic, and more sensible
confirms that Jane was very mother figure for the girls. finally paid her a return visit
much in love and swears that she was again exceedingly cold.
Bingley's departure was no 3
Around the same time, A double standard: Elizabeth
accident. Wickham's interest shifts from judged Charlotte harshly for
Mrs. Gardiner proposes that Because of their class, the Elizabeth to a young woman marrying for money, but excuses
Jane come stay with them in Gardiners live in a very different who recently inherited Wickham for seeking a fortune in
London to help her recovery. part of town and travel in £10,000. Elizabeth finds she marriage.
While Mrs. Gardiner promises different social circles than isn't affected much by losing
Wickham's attention. She 4 5
that Jane and Bingley are not Bingley and his family and
likely to meet, Elizabeth friends. realizes she was never in love
secretly hopes that Jane's with him and wishes him well.
presence nearby will rekindle 3 5
Bingley's affections.

CHAPTER 27 The next day, the arrival of a Miss De Bourgh is the exact
carriage at Rosings containing opposite of Elizabeth. She has all
Sir William Lucas, his All the major characters in the
the young and sickly Miss De the class and wealth, but none of
youngest daughter, and novel grow and change: after her
Bourgh causes a great Elizabeth's beauty or intelligence.
Elizabeth go to visit Charlotte, experiences in London, Jane
commotion. Everyone is
stopping along the way in starts to admit that people can 1 4 5
invited to dinner at Rosings.
London to check up on Jane. have cruel and deceitful
Elizabeth smirks that the
Speaking privately with intentions.
sickly Miss De Bourgh will
Elizabeth, Mrs. Gardiner
2 make the perfect wife for
confirms that Jane feels
Darcy.
dejected, but she thinks that
Jane has finally given up the
illusion of Caroline's CHAPTER 29
friendship. Mr. Collins gloats as they Class rank is not about personal
Mrs. Gardiner also consoles Apparently it's okay—even prepare for the dinner. He substance: it is all about the
Elizabeth about losing necessary—to marry for money, condescendingly tells outward and arbitrary.
Wickham. She considers his but not okay to make it obvious. Elizabeth not to worry that
her best dress is simple, 1 5
shift in attention to a Elizabeth points out the
suddenly-rich woman to be contradiction in what is because Lady Catherine "likes
quite self-serving. But considered socially acceptable to have the distinction of rank
Elizabeth defends Wickham, behavior. preserved."
reminding her aunt that she At Rosings, they meet the Lady Catherine has more pride
had once advised Elizabeth to 3 4 5 haughty Lady Catherine, than anyone in the book. She is
think about money when whose conversation consists also friendless and can only
marrying. Mrs. Gardiner later entirely of commands and interact by commanding people.
invites Elizabeth to join her strong opinions. Mr. Collins
and Mr. Gardiner on a summer and Sir William Lucas suck up 1 5
tour of Derbyshire and the to her, agreeing with
Lake Country. Elizabeth is everything she says. Miss De
delighted to accept. Bourgh is uncommunicative
and dull.
CHAPTER 28 After lecturing Charlotte Lady Catherine, like Darcy,
Elizabeth, Sir William Lucas, A parsonage home is the home about how to run her believes in a set of
and his daughter arrive at the given to a parish clergyman. But household, Lady Catherine "accomplishments" for women.
parsonage home of Mr. Collins for a clergyman, Mr. Collins is asks Elizabeth a series of In contrast, Elizabeth is self-
and Charlotte. Mr. Collins obsessed with rank and riches. invasive questions about her made and proud of having
soon gives them a tour, taking He seems to have things only in family, property, and determined her own character.
pains to show off every order to show them off. upbringing. She disapproves of
architectural feature, garden the Bennets' 1 2 5
view, and piece of furniture in 1 4 5 choices—educating their own
the house. daughters, failing to provide
musical training—and is
If Charlotte is embarrassed by Elizabeth realizes that while
astonished that Elizabeth
her husband, she hides it well. Charlotte's choice may mean
answers so pointedly, offering
She takes Elizabeth on a tour that she doesn't have love, she
her own opinions to counter
of her neatly arranged home has found contentment.
Lady Catherine's.
and Elizabeth realizes that
Charlotte has made herself a 1 2 4 5
comfortable life here.

CHAPTER 30 Darcy tries to excuse his Here Darcy is trying to apologize
behavior at the ball by saying to Elizabeth. He suggests that
Completely satisfied with his Charlotte's contentment in
that he lacks the they share underlying
daughter's situation, Sir marriage is based on being as
conversational warmth to similarities. He has gotten past
William Lucas soon departs. separate from Mr. Collins as
introduce himself to strangers. his pride and can now perceive
Elizabeth and Charlotte pass possible. Lady Catherine believes
Elizabeth counters with an their fundamental compatibility.
the time in her drawing room, so strongly in her high-class
analogy: if she practiced piano,
conveniently separated from superiority that she thinks 1
she might become a tolerable
Mr. Collins's room. Their nothing of telling "lower class"
musician. Darcy smiles and
dinners at Rosings continue. people what to do.
says that neither of them
Lady Catherine also visits
1 4 5 performs for strangers.
them at the parsonage, though
seemingly only to dispense Lady Catherine demands to be Lady Catherine sees quality
advice about everything she included in the conversation, where it isn't there in her
notices. and praises her daughter's daughter. Pride and class
musical potential—if only she prejudice make her blind.
Lady Catherine has arranged a Lady Catherine wants nothing
were healthy. Elizabeth
visit from her nephews: Darcy but the best for Darcy, which of 1 2 4 5
notices that Darcy is totally
(her favorite) and Colonel course means her own high-class
uninterested in Miss De
Fitzwilliam, his cousin. Upon daughter. Elizabeth's prejudice
Bourgh.
their arrival, Mr. Collins brings toward Darcy for breaking up
them home for a visit. Darcy Jane and Bingley remains, and
meets Elizabeth with his usual Darcy's reaction shows her CHAPTER 32
reserve. Conversation is attack is on target. The next morning, Elizabeth is Elizabeth's barbed questions
sparse. Darcy seems surprised by a visit from show that she blames Darcy for
uncomfortable when Elizabeth 1 2 3 5 steering Bingley away from Jane.
Darcy. Conversation is
asks if he ever sees Jane in awkward, and they struggle to That Darcy doesn't quite
London, but the moment avoid awkward silences. understand her question implies
passes. Elizabeth asks Darcy about that she may not be entirely
suddenly departing right. In Charlotte's observation,
CHAPTER 31 Netherfield. Darcy suggests Elizabeth is once again presented
that Bingley is not likely to with evidence that she doesn't
Elizabeth and Colonel Colonel Fitzwilliam seems at first believe because of her prejudice
return there because of his
Fitzwilliam get along very well. like another potential love against Darcy.
connections in London. After
During one visit to Rosings, he interest for Elizabeth. While
Darcy leaves, Charlotte tells
asks Elizabeth to play the Elizabeth lacks the musical 2 4
Elizabeth that the only
piano. Darcy leaves his aunt to accomplishments to recommend
explanation for Darcy's odd
watch, and Elizabeth playfully her to Lady Catherine, her
behavior in calling on her is
accuses him of spreading her conversation is sharp and witty,
that he must be in love with
poor musical reputation. highlighting her independence of
her. Elizabeth finds this idea
Colonel Fitzwilliam asks spirit.
hard to believe.
Elizabeth about Darcy's
reputation. She relates how 1 2 Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam Yet Darcy is an intensely private
Darcy hardly danced at the continue their visits, but Darcy person, which makes him hard to
Meryton ball, even though is unreadable and Charlotte read.
some ladies wanted partners. comes to think that maybe it's
Fitzwilliam who loves 2 4
Elizabeth.

CHAPTER 33 Her surprise becomes shock It's not very romantic to reassure
when he passionately someone that you're no longer
When she goes on walks in the Darcy tries to figure out if
confesses his love for her and bothered by their inferiority.
countryside near Rosings, Elizabeth will accept him and
asks her to marry him. Darcy Darcy may love Elizabeth, but
Elizabeth keeps running into move to Pemberley, which is
then explains how his affection he's still prideful, and Elizabeth
Darcy by chance. During one nearby Rosings. But her prejudice
outgrew his concerns about responds harshly.
meeting, he questions her against him leads Elizabeth to an
Elizabeth and her family's
about Charlotte's happiness entirely different interpretation. 1 2 4 5
inferiority. Elizabeth grows
and about her own feelings for
2 4 angry, and firmly refuses his
the neighborhood, Elizabeth
offer of marriage.
suspects that he may actually
be trying to set her up with Darcy is astonished and Elizabeth unleashes the full force
Colonel Fitzwilliam. demands an explanation. of her prejudice against Darcy,
Elizabeth blasts him for finally letting him see what she
On another day, Elizabeth Unlike Wickham, Colonel
insulting her, for ruining Jane's truly thinks of him.
meets Colonel Fitzwilliam on Fitzwilliam is a good man. But
happiness forever, and for
a walk. As they talk, he tells her just like Wickham, Fitzwilliam 1 2
robbing Wickham of his
that as a younger son, he has must take into account financial
chances in life.
concerns that Darcy does not concerns when thinking about
have: for instance, about marriage. Darcy stands by his decision to Darcy, his pride insulted,
having to marry for money. break up Bingley and Jane. He responds with the same lack of
Elizabeth blushes. 4 5 is sarcastic about Wickham's composure. Although he isn't
misfortunes. And he tells smooth, he is at least honest.
During the same conversation, Predisposed to think of Darcy as
Elizabeth that he was only
Colonel Fitzwilliam relates a prideful, Elizabeth's opinion of 1 2 4
being honest about his
story about how Darcy him only gets worse when she
complicated feelings for her.
intervened before one of his hears the story. She can't imagine
friends made an "imprudent that Darcy may have had Elizabeth assures Darcy that Elizabeth's rejection of Darcy is
marriage." Elizabeth realizes legitimate concerns about Jane he's the last man she would the climax of her prejudice
that Fitzwilliam is unknowingly or the Bennets and sincerely ever marry. Darcy leaves against him. Yet her crying
referencing a story about wanted to protect his friend. angrily and Elizabeth breaks indicates that she still may have
Bingley and Jane, and is down crying, though she soon deeper feelings for him.
appalled to realize that Darcy 1 2 4 regains her confidence that
ruined Jane's chances with she was correct to reject 1 2 4
Bingley. Darcy, she thinks, Darcy.
must have selfishly wanted
Bingley to marry Georgiana
instead.
CHAPTER 34
One day, while Charlotte and In Austen's time, it would be
Mr. Collins go to visit Rosings, awkward and often
Elizabeth stays behind. The inappropriate for an unmarried
doorbell rings: expecting man and woman to be alone
Colonel Fitzwilliam, Elizabeth together.
is surprised to find Mr. Darcy.
4

CHAPTER 35 CHAPTER 36
The next day, Elizabeth takes a In Chapter 6, Charlotte warned Elizabeth is stunned. At first, At first, Elizabeth misreads the
walk. She finds Darcy waiting Elizabeth that Jane needed to she doesn't believe any of this letter just as she has misread
for her. He gives her a letter of show her affections for Bingley. It information because she Darcy. But then she realizes that
explanation. In the letter, turns out she was right, and that thinks that Darcy's tone in the her prejudice caused her to
Darcy answers Elizabeth's Darcy interpreted Jane's reserve letter seems unrepentant and misread Wickham without
charges of misconduct toward as a lack of love for Bingley. In haughty. But, upon rereading challenging his flimsy story or
Jane and Wickham. He knew conjunction with the Bennets' the letter, she starts to see motives, as she always had done
that Bingley was in love with tastelessness at the ball, he things in a different light. with Darcy.
Jane, but he detected no believed that the marriage was Elizabeth realizes Wickham
affection on her part and, given not in Bingley's interest. was inconsistent and that his 1 2
that, thought it unwise for However, he does not admit he history was never verified. She
Bingley to become attached to crossed the line by lying to realizes that Wickham tricked
Elizabeth's family, with its Bingley. her.
improprieties and lack of
1 2 3 4 5 Elizabeth is utterly ashamed. Elizabeth realizes her errors and
wealth. In London, he joined
She had considered herself to faults, and begins to rebuild her
with Caroline in convincing character. She doesn't realize it
be a discerning judge of
Bingley to give up the yet, but Darcy is undergoing a
character, but now she sees
attachment. Darcy also similar process.
that she was blind and
confesses, with regret, to
prejudiced. Until this moment,
keeping Bingley from finding 1 2
she thinks, she never really
out that Jane was in London,
knew herself.
too.
Elizabeth also rereads the part Everything looks different when
Regarding Wickham, Darcy Wickham turns out to be a
of the letter about Jane, and prejudices are removed. But at
says that after Darcy's father classic example of a corrupt,
realizes that she can't blame least Elizabeth has the strength
died, Wickham resigned his directionless opportunist. In this
Darcy for intervening: Jane to face and accept her failures.
opportunity with the church in case, Darcy's pride meant that
was reserved, as Charlotte had
exchange for money for law he refused to meet Wickham's 1 2 3 4
pointed out; and she must
school. Rather than using the demands. In other words, he
admit that the other Bennets
money to attend law school, wouldn't let Wickham use him.
were terribly crass.
though, he spent it on partying.
When the money ran out, he 1 2 3 On returning to the parsonage Elizabeth thinks she'll never see
asked Darcy for more money, house, Elizabeth learns that Darcy again because she had so
and was furious when Darcy Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam wrongly insulted him.
refused. had both visited to say good-
bye. 4
Years passed. Wickham saw an Wickham tried to seduce and
opportunity with Darcy's marry Georgiana merely for her
sister Georgiana, who was money. Darcy keeps it secret CHAPTER 37
both rich and, at age 15, naÏve. because even Georgiana's Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam Lady Catherine thinks that
Wickham charmed her into willingness to run off with leave the next morning. Lady because she is so high class she
eloping with him, but Darcy Wickham could ruin her Catherine, now bored, has the right to instruct other
discovered their plans and reputation and wreck her own requests to see Mr. Collins, people about even the most
sent Wickham away. To protect chance at a good marriage. Charlotte, and Elizabeth insignificant things, such as how
his sister's reputation, Darcy again. Lady Catherine to pack. Her intrusions on such
has kept everything a secret. 1 2 3 4 petty matters make her seem
supposes that Elizabeth is
He refers Elizabeth to Colonel melancholy for having to leave ridiculous.
Fitzwilliam to confirm the Rosings herself, but Elizabeth
story. declines the invitation to stay 1 5
any longer. So Lady Catherine
shows her how to pack.

Elizabeth keeps thinking about Elizabeth is too ashamed of When they arrive home, Mr. A portrait of the Bennet family's
Darcy's letter. She decides herself to want to see Darcy Bennet is glad to see Elizabeth different interests. Elizabeth's
that she respects Darcy but again. and Jane, Mrs. Bennet wants desire to avoid Wickham
hopes never to see him again. to hear about the latest highlights her own
3 fashions, and Kitty and Lydia embarrassment for being wrong
want to walk to Meryton to about him.
CHAPTER 38 see the officers. To avoid
seeing Wickham, Elizabeth 2 3
The next day, Mr. Collins Mr. Collins's delusion is
chooses not to accompany
delivers to Elizabeth his ludicrous: Charlotte's
them.
earnest and solemn farewell. contentment is based on
He wishes Elizabeth the same avoiding him. Elizabeth's
kind of perfect happiness in recognition that Charlotte has CHAPTER 40
marriage that he has found found comfort, despite her earlier Later, Elizabeth tells Jane how Elizabeth now realizes the
with Charlotte. Though belief that Charlotte would be Darcy proposed to her and immense challenge involved in
Elizabeth knows that Mr. miserable, shows Elizabeth's also shares the part of Darcy's trying to know people beyond
Collins assessment of his growth. letter about Wickham. their appearances.
marriage is totally wrong, she Elizabeth says that she can
must admit that Charlotte 1 4 5 1 2 4
hardly believe how Darcy got
does appear to be content. all the goodness while
Elizabeth arrives in London to Elizabeth is not immune to Wickham got all the
visit with the Gardiners before feeling flattered that someone of appearance of it.
returning to Longbourn with Darcy's stature would propose to Elizabeth asks for Jane's In a social world that so values
Jane. Though desperate to her. advice: should they publicize reputations, Jane and Elizabeth
share her news about Darcy, Wickham's faults? They agree make the same choice that Darcy
she is apprehensive that the 1 3
not to, for the sake of Darcy did to keep quiet about
news about Bingley will hurt and his sister. Besides, no one Wickham. It's ironic that their
Jane. She decides to wait until would believe that Darcy is silence about past scandal will
they get home. actually the good guy. Anyway, only create more scandal in the
they agree, he will soon leave future.
CHAPTER 39 along the regiment with no
harm done. 1 2
On their way to Longbourn, Lydia is completely blind to the
Elizabeth and Jane are met by reality of Wickham's situation.
Kitty and Lydia, who talk Like Elizabeth, she doesn't care CHAPTER 41
constantly about the soldiers. about marrying for money. But As the regiment prepares to Elizabeth is motivated by having
Lydia tells them the regiment she also doesn't seem to care depart Meryton, Lydia lost Bingley and Darcy to the
will soon leave for Brighton, about marrying for love. She just receives an invitation from the Bennet's foolishness. She urges
and that she hopes to convince seems to be "boy crazy." wife of Colonel Foster to come Mr. Bennet to act like the father
their parents to take everyone with the regiment to Brighton. he's never been. But Mr. Bennet
there for the summer. Lydia 3 4
Elizabeth secretly asks Mr. sits back and passes the job to
adds, with delight, that the girl Bennet to stop Lydia from someone else.
Wickham was pursuing has going. Elizabeth urges him to
left town, leaving Wickham realize how Lydia's flirty 1 3 5
available. foolishness will hurt the family.
But Mr. Bennet wants a quiet
house and thinks Lydia must
make her own mistakes. And
besides, Colonel Forster will
look after her.

In the days following, Elizabeth cannot be directly Elizabeth notices a portrait of Pemberley makes Elizabeth see
Elizabeth encounters insulting to Wickham, but she Darcy. As she stares at it, the Darcy differently.
Wickham at a social event. He lets him know that she knows housekeeper asks if she thinks
blushes when she asks if he about his sketchy past. She also Darcy is handsome. Elizabeth 2 4
knows Colonel Fitzwilliam. admits to realizing and says yes.
When Wickham asks how respecting why Darcy is the kind
As they walk, Darcy suddenly Elizabeth feels like a stalker who
Darcy is doing, Elizabeth of man he is.
appears—he came home a day just got caught. But Darcy steps
responds that she understands
1 2 earlier than scheduled. in and smooths out the awkward
Darcy better now. Wickham
Elizabeth is stunned and situation—a social skill Elizabeth
gets the point, and they part.
embarrassed, but Darcy is herself possesses. Pemberley
extremely polite to them all. brings out an entirely different
CHAPTER 42 He impresses Mr. and Mrs. side of Darcy.
Elizabeth reflects on her Elizabeth shares certain traits Gardiner with his courtesy,
offering to take Mr. Gardiner 1 2
disappointment regarding her with her father, especially humor
parents' marriage. After Mr. and intelligence, but she knows fishing in his streams.
Bennet realized he married a these won't suffice. She'll add a Elizabeth silently wonders if he
foolish woman, he sought sense of responsibility and might still love her.
comfort in his library and in compassion to them. Darcy says he is expecting It is now clear that Darcy is still
making fun of Mrs. Bennet. guests the next day: Bingley interested in Elizabeth; she's
Though Elizabeth hates to 3 4
and his sisters, and Georgiana. getting a second chance. Darcy's
admit it, Mr. Bennet has failed He asks Elizabeth if he can bad reputation had prejudiced
as a respectful spouse and introduce his sister to her. the Gardiners, but here his real
responsible father. Elizabeth accepts. The character shines.
In July, Elizabeth leaves on her Elizabeth's hesitation about Gardiners, having heard so
many negative things about 1 2 4
summer holiday with Mr. and visiting Pemberley reflects her
Mrs. Gardiner. They tour new concern for Darcy. She does Darcy, leave with an entirely
Derbyshire, which takes them not want her presence to revised opinion of him.
near Pemberley. Mrs. Gardiner embarrass him.
suggests they visit the estate. CHAPTER 44
Elizabeth consents to go only 1 5
The next day, Elizabeth and By bringing his sister to meet
when she learns that Darcy
the Gardiners are again Elizabeth and the Gardiners,
will not be there.
surprised when Darcy shows Darcy shows he sees them as
up with Georgiana and equals. He has overcome his
CHAPTER 43 Bingley for a visit. The pride.
At Pemberley, Elizabeth Rosings is showy, but Pemberley Gardiners note Darcy's
eagerness and realize he must 1 2 3 5
admires the estate's beauty. is tasteful. Pemberley and the
The house is lavish but high life it represents make be in love.
tasteful, and Elizabeth Elizabeth fantasize about Georgiana turns out to by shy Elizabeth learns much more from
imagines what it would have marriage. rather than proud. Bingley, her extended personal
been like to be mistress of the meanwhile, is delighted to see encounters than she ever did
place as Darcy's wife. 1 4 5
Elizabeth, and asks questions from reports, rumors, and her
Elizabeth and Mr. and Mrs. Darcy is Austen's ideal upper that lead Elizabeth to suspect own snap judgments based on
Gardiner are escorted around class man, balancing power and he might still love Jane. Darcy prejudice.
the rooms by a housekeeper compassion, community and Georgiana invite Elizabeth
involvement and dedication to and the Gardiners to 2
who praises Mr. Darcy as a
kind and generous man: good family. Pemberley for dinner the next
to his servants, his tenants, evening.
and especially his sister. 1 3 5

Elizabeth is amazed at the Darcy's attitude toward the CHAPTER 46
change in Darcy. His pride has Gardiners—an example of
At her inn, Elizabeth receives While Lydia's running off to
turned into tenderness. If he Elizabeth's "lowly"
two awful letters from Jane. marry without permission is a
was embarrassed by connections—indicates how
The first contains the shocking scandal, the major threat is to
Elizabeth's relations before, Darcy has grown. In his marriage
news that Lydia had run off Lydia herself: society placed a
Darcy shows nothing but good proposal, he said he could
with Wickham to get married huge importance on a woman's
will toward the Gardiners. overlook them. Now, he wants to
in Scotland. The second letter chastity before marriage. An
Above all, Elizabeth feels engage them as friends.
has much worse news: that unmarried couple living together
incredibly grateful that Darcy
1 2 3 5 Colonel Forster learned that for any length of time was
has forgiven her misjudgments
Wickham had no plans to considered immoral. Lydia's
and harsh rejection, and now
marry Lydia at all, and that the reputation would be ruined and
treats her with affectionate
two of them were now in would taint the rest of her
respect.
London. The colonel and Mr. family's reputation as well.
Bennet have gone there to
CHAPTER 45 search; Mrs. Bennet is a 3 4 5
The next morning, Mr. Darcy's growth is highlighted by nervous wreck. Jane asks
Gardiner joins Bingley and the Bingley women's lack of Elizabeth to come home
Darcy to fish, and Elizabeth growth—they still look down on immediately; she also requests
and Mrs. Gardiner visit the Elizabeth. that Mr. Gardiner help Mr.
women at Pemberley. Caroline Bennet in London.
Bingley and Mrs. Hurst do not 1 2 4
Elizabeth meets Darcy as she Because of pride, Elizabeth and
seem pleased to see Elizabeth. is running out the door and Darcy both tried to take the
When Darcy arrives, Caroline Caroline knows that she can't tells him the story. Elizabeth moral high ground with
tries to embarrass Elizabeth compete with Elizabeth on blames herself for not Wickham.
by bringing up her connection substance, so she once again revealing Wickham's
tries to drive a wedge between character to everyone, which 1 3 5
with Wickham. The plan
backfires: the name of them by exploiting Darcy's pride. would have prevented this.
Wickham mortifies Georgiana, But this effort only reveals her Looking serious, Darcy wishes Elizabeth mistakenly interprets
and only Elizabeth's cool selfish, nasty character. Like Mrs. he could offer help, and leaves. Darcy's seriousness as an
handling of the question saves Bennet's schemes, Caroline's Elizabeth worries that this attempt to distance himself from
the situation. After Elizabeth backfire because they are new disgrace to her family will her. She knows that if Lydia
leaves, Caroline mocks motivated by selfishness. put a final end to her rekindled brought shame to the Bennets,
Elizabeth's looks, but Darcy relationship with Darcy. Soon, Darcy would not marry into her
says he ranks her among the 1 2 4
Elizabeth and the Gardiners family.
most beautiful women he are on the road for Longbourn.
knows. 1 4 5
CHAPTER 47
In the carriage, Mr. Gardiner Elizabeth knows from Darcy's
wonders if Jane might be right story that Wickham has no
in hoping for the best: morals and is therefore capable
Wickham knows Lydia has no of anything. Only marrying him
money and stands to lose his can save Lydia's reputation, and
reputation with his regiment, that of her entire family.
so what else could he be after
but marriage? Elizabeth 3 4
assures them that Wickham is
an awful person, capable of
anything.

At Longbourn, Mrs. Bennet is Mrs. Bennet always tries to keep CHAPTER 49
holed up in her room, frantic herself in the right, so she blames
Two days later, a letter arrives Wickham is basically ransoming
with nervousness, and blames Colonel Foster rather than
from Mr. Gardiner: Lydia and Lydia. If marriage is always partly
Colonel Foster for not herself. And she's just as
Wickham have been found! a financial deal, Wickham has
watching over Lydia. She tells superficial and frivolous as ever:
They are not yet married, but taken it to an extreme.
Mr. Gardiner to make Lydia how can she worry about dresses
will be, provided that Mr.
and Wickham marry when at a time like this? 3 4
Bennet pay Wickham a small
they are found—and to make
1 3 4 amount every year.
Lydia consult her about finding
the best deals on wedding Mr. Bennet says he strongly Mr. Bennet has no choice. Since
dresses. suspects that Mr. Gardiner has Lydia and Wickham are already
already paid Wickham much living together, Lydia's reputation
Elizabeth and Jane dissect the If Lydia had not intended to
more. Wickham would be a is already tarnished. Marriage to
situation. They are relieved marry, and was just after a sexual
fool to take less for Lydia, he Wickham will salvage enough of
that apparently Lydia did think fling, she would be seen an
says. The Bennets all agree it to save the other Bennet girls
she was getting married, which indecent "fallen woman."
that Lydia and Wickham must from the stain.
they can tell from a note she
3 4 marry, but Jane and Elizabeth
left for Mrs. Forster signed 1 3 4 5
wonder how they can ever
"Lydia Wickham."
repay Mr. Gardiner.
CHAPTER 48 Jane and Elizabeth share the The last part of the novel
news with Mrs. Bennet, who is concerns gratitude, and Mrs.
Longbourn buzzes with the Everyone was duped by overjoyed, instantly forgetting Bennet is despicably ungrateful.
news. It comes out that Wickham's genial manners and Lydia's disgrace. Asked about With her fake physical ailments,
Wickham accrued serious handsome appearance. repaying Mr. Gardiner, Mrs. gossipy pride, and willingness to
debts in Meryton as well as Bennet dismisses the debt, overlook Lydia's recklessness,
gambling debts at Brighton. 2
saying that as an uncle he which almost took down the
Mr. Bennet and Mr. Gardiner Mr. Gardiner implies that should pay. Mrs. Bennet entire family, Mrs. Bennet is at
search hotels in London to no Elizabeth should ask Darcy for rushes out to make the news her shallowest.
avail. Mr. Gardiner suggests help, but she is too embarrassed. about her daughter's marriage
public. 1 3 4 5
that Elizabeth ask for help
from anyone related to 1 2
Wickham. CHAPTER 50
A letter arrives from Mr. Lydia's actions are an extreme As Mrs. Bennet makes plans Lydia and Wickham reinforce
Collins. He offers condolences, breach of rank and polite for Lydia's wedding, Elizabeth each other's bad qualities.
but spends most of the letter behavior, both of which are regrets having told Darcy Elizabeth and Darcy, on the
underlining how Lydia's extremely important to Mr. about the scandal. She expects other hand, would have
heinous offense will ruin the Collins and Lady Catherine. him to distance himself from complemented each other.
other Bennet girls' chances at her now that Wickham will be Elizabeth's realization of this
marriage. Mr. Collins adds that 1 2 3 4 5 joining the Bennet family. shows that she has really
Lady Catherine agrees with Elizabeth realizes that she and changed.
him. Darcy would have been
perfect together, each capable 1 2 3 4 5
More time passes, but all Mr. Bennet realizes his fault in
the matter, but tries to remain of improving the other.
attempts to find Wickham and
Lydia fail, and Mr. Bennet isolated from his family. He
returns home. He asks doesn't realize that everyone will
Elizabeth not to talk with him suffer, not just him.
about Lydia, saying that he
brought this on and only he 1 3
should suffer.

Mr. Gardiner sends a letter Refusing to allow Lydia and CHAPTER 52
saying that Wickham has Wickham to visit would only
Mrs. Gardiner sends a long Wickham is ready to abandon
changed regiments to one in advertise the scandal
reply detailing how Darcy Lydia. Darcy realizes that this
Northern England and that surrounding their marriage. Once
went to London, tracked down would wreck the Bennets'
Lydia hopes they can visit again. Elizabeth and Jane must
Wickham and stopped him reputation and totally prevent
Longbourn on their way. intervene to ensure that their
from abandoning Lydia and any future association he could
Elizabeth and Jane convince parents act in a socially
escaping to Europe, and then have with them. As Mrs.
Mr. Bennet, who wants respectable way
negotiated a deal with Gardiner realizes, Darcy bribes
nothing to do with Lydia or
1 3 4 Wickham and presented it to Wickham in order to preserve
Wickham, to let the new
Mr. Gardiner. Darcy would pay Elizabeth's reputation, not
couple come visit.
and Mr. Gardiner would take Lydia's. He then refuses the
all the credit. Mr. Gardiner credit out of pride and respect for
CHAPTER 51 resisted, but Darcy was firm, Elizabeth.
Lydia and Wickham arrive at Lydia is as shallow and senseless arguing that it was his silence
about Wickham's character 1 3 4 5
Longbourn. Lydia is giddy over as Mrs. Bennet. Wickham is just
her marriage, mocking her as crass, in his own way. that set all of these problems
older sisters for failing to get in motion. Mrs. Gardiner
married before she did. 3 4 5 writes that she suspects that
Wickham acts as if he did Darcy had another motivation,
nothing wrong. however.
Yet during their ten-day visit, This is a marriage founded not on Before Wickham leaves, Elizabeth will be neither fooled
Elizabeth observes that love, but on opportunity and Elizabeth encounters him on a by Wickham nor overly
Wickham doesn't entirely poor decisions. Since divorces walk. She reiterates that she prejudiced against him. She
return Lydia's infatuation. She were very uncommon, the knows his story but, resigned shows compassion in accepting
figures he ran away from relationship will only sour. to be his sister-in-law, requests Wickham into the family.
creditors in Brighton and, that they not argue about the
4 past. 1 2 3
preferring companionship,
took Lydia along.
While gloating about the Darcy is the absolute last person CHAPTER 53
details of her wedding, Lydia Elizabeth would expect to be at Soon after Wickham and Lydia Mr. Bennet's pride won't let him
reveals to Elizabeth that Darcy Wickham's wedding. To be polite, leave, Mrs. Bennet hears visit a man who hurt his
attended the ceremony. Lydia Elizabeth can't directly ask about rumors that Bingley is daughter, even though avoiding
quickly apologizes: it was it, furthering the mystery. returning to Netherfield. Mr. Bingley is impolite.
supposed to be a secret. Bennet refuses to visit him,
Elizabeth burns with curiosity 1 3 4 however. 1 3
and writes to Mrs. Gardiner
Not long after, however, Mrs. Bennet fails to welcome the
for more details.
Bingley and Darcy visit the person to whom she should be
Bennets. Mrs. Bennet gives a most grateful: Darcy. She
warm welcome to Bingley and commits another social blunder
almost none to Darcy. She then by openly discussing Lydia's
goes on to speak glowingly disgrace.
about Lydia's marriage to
Wickham, much to Elizabeth's 1 2 3 4 5
mortification.

Darcy is not so congenial as he Outside his Pemberley comfort Bingley tells Jane that he Bingley is honest and
was at Pemberley, and zone, Darcy is a different person. didn't know she was in London, discrete—qualities that Elizabeth
Elizabeth doubts he has Elizabeth worries that her but—to Elizabeth's relief—he shares. Jane has matured to
returned for her. Bingley, mother continues to offend him. leaves Darcy out of it. Jane accept the malice in the world
however, warms up to Jane as As expected, Bingley and Jane realizes that Caroline and Mrs. and uses her compassion to deal
the initial awkwardness rediscover their affection when Hurst had worked against her, with it.
subsides. Mrs. Bennet reminds they're together. but hopes they can repair
Bingley about having left the some version of friendship. 1 2 3
neighborhood so suddenly, and 1 2 3 4
reinvites Bingley and Darcy to CHAPTER 56
dinner.
About a week later, Lady Lady Catherine's first instinct is
Catherine De Bourgh makes a to measure the Bennets' class
CHAPTER 54 surprise visit to Longbourn. rank by their property.
At the dinner party, Bingley Bingley has come full circle and She says almost nothing to
decides to take the seat next to finally trusts his own decisions Mrs. Bennet, coolly inspecting 1 2 5
Jane—just as he used to. and emotions. the rooms and property, then
Watching them, Elizabeth is asks Elizabeth to take a walk.
sure that Bingley will soon 4
Lady Catherine gets to the Lady Catherine's interrogation of
propose.
point: she knows of Jane's Elizabeth is very rude. She feels
Darcy, however, sits at the far Unlike Jane with Bingley, engagement; she also knows her power exempts her from
end of the table from Elizabeth has no chance to that Elizabeth has tricked her common decency, and she can't
Elizabeth, next to Mrs. Bennet, express herself to Darcy in nephew, Darcy, into proposing believe that Darcy would choose
and barely speaks to Elizabeth. person. Elizabeth's inner tumult as well. Elizabeth denies Elizabeth. So, she thinks he must
Afterwards, she feels silly for makes her a richly developed having done any such thing. have been tricked.
thinking she had another character. She is constantly Lady Catherine demands that
chance with Darcy after reevaluating things. she promise never to accept a 1 2 4
already rejecting him once. proposal from Darcy. Elizabeth
1 2 3 4 unconditionally refuses.
Lady Catherine is shocked at Elizabeth boldly asserts her
CHAPTER 55 Elizabeth's nerve. She says freedom of mind and freedom
Bingley visits again, this time The first non-proposal builds that Darcy was always from the class concerns of Lady
alone. Mrs. Bennet, expecting suspense. The second provides intended for her daughter, Catherine. In doing so, Elizabeth
a proposal, awkwardly clears the payoff. In keeping with Jane's Miss De Bourgh. And that suggests that individuals can
everyone but Jane from the modesty, Austen does not Darcy's connection to the define themselves regardless of
room. Nothing happens. The describe the proposal scene. Bennets would bring shame, class or social prejudices.
next morning, Bingley returns dishonor, and alienation from
to shoot with Mr. Bennet. 3 4 his family. Elizabeth, deeply 1 2 4 5
When Bingley comes inside, insulted, denies that Lady
Mrs. Bennet again empties the Catherine's arguments have
room. Elizabeth returns from relevance for either herself or
writing a letter and sees Darcy: they will make their
Bingley and Jane together by own choices. Lady Catherine
the fireside: he has just drives away furious.
proposed marriage.
Overjoyed, Jane goes upstairs Bingley and Jane's marriage,
to tell her mother. Bingley and unlike Lydia's, will have a solid
Elizabeth greet each other as foundation of respect and
brother and sister. Elizabeth mutual admiration.
knows that Bingley and Jane's
mutual understanding will 1 3 4
make them very happy.

CHAPTER 57 Darcy regrets his first Just as Elizabeth was humbled
proposal to Elizabeth. He's after she learned the truth about
The next morning, Mr. Bennet The exact opposite of Elizabeth,
been prideful since childhood Darcy, so Darcy learned humility
calls in Elizabeth to Mr. Collins has no independent
and presumed that she would in realizing that his pride injured
congratulate her on her will to act outside of Lady
accept. He thanks Elizabeth her and prevented his own
upcoming engagement. Collins' stuffy social approval.
for teaching him a lesson about happiness.
Elizabeth is stunned. Mr.
1 2 3 4 5 humility. Elizabeth apologizes
Bennet shares with her a letter 1 2
for treating him so roughly.
from Mr. Collins in which he
cautions Elizabeth not to go Darcy explains that he told Darcy does penance for his
forward with an engagement Bingley the truth about Jane blatantly wrong decision to lie
to Darcy against Lady and advised him to return to and must ask forgiveness:
Catherine's wishes. Netherfield. Bingley was angry another example that Darcy has
about being deceived while relinquished his pride.
Mr. Bennet thinks the rumor Mr. Bennet exemplifies how first
Jane was in London, but he has
about Elizabeth and Darcy is impressions and prejudices can 1 2 4
forgiven Darcy.
hilarious because he is certain be so enduring. Elizabeth and
that Elizabeth hates Darcy and Darcy have each changed
that Darcy is indifferent to her. profoundly, and the Bennets owe CHAPTER 59
Elizabeth fakes a laugh to hide Darcy everything. But all of these That night, Elizabeth tells Jane Even the closest person to
her deep embarrassment changes are under the surface, so everything. Jane thinks Elizabeth doesn't know her
about her father's Mr. Bennet can't see them. In Elizabeth is joking. After all, feelings, which shows how
misjudgment. But a small part fact, even Elizabeth isn't entirely doesn't Elizabeth hate Darcy? closely people guarded their
of her worries that her father sure what's going on in Darcy's Elizabeth explains how her emotions.
might be right and that she has heart. affections gradually changed,
overestimated Darcy's and Jane is absolutely 2 3 4
interest. 1 2 delighted.
Mrs. Bennet is annoyed when Mrs. Bennet here provides some
CHAPTER 58 Darcy returns the next day comic irony with her misplaced
Only days later, Darcy comes Elizabeth has to be a little with Bingley. She apologizes to prejudice against Darcy. She
to Longbourn with Bingley. impolite in ignoring Darcy's Elizabeth for the should be encouraging him.
They all go for a walk and request that Mr. Gardiner take inconvenience of having to go
Elizabeth and Darcy soon find the credit. But by breaking the on long walks with him. 1 2
themselves alone. Elizabeth rules, Elizabeth allows for their Like the rest of his family, Mr.
Later Darcy visits Mr. Bennet
cannot contain her gratitude climactic emotional exchange. Bennet needs Elizabeth to
in private to ask his consent to
any longer for all that Darcy marry Elizabeth. Mr. Bennet interpret Darcy. This serves as a
suffered and sacrificed for 1 3 4
calls in Elizabeth. He's stunned metaphor for how Elizabeth
Lydia. Darcy tells Elizabeth at the proposal, and wonders helps Darcy identify and correct
that he did everything for her. why Elizabeth would marry a his own flaws, bringing out his
Darcy says his feelings for her While there is no explicit man she hates. Elizabeth best attributes.
have not changed since his marriage proposal from Darcy explains everything, and Mr.
rejected proposal, and asks yet, everything hinges on Bennet happily gives his 1 2 3 4
about her feelings. Elizabeth Elizabeth's growth as a character blessing.
confesses that her feelings and ability to overcome her
have significantly changed. prejudice..
Darcy is overwhelmed with
happiness. 1 2 4
Darcy explains that he started Selfish plans based on class
to hope after Lady Catherine prejudice all backfire in this
informed him about novel.
Elizabeth's stubborn refusal to
follow her commands. 1 2 5

Elizabeth tells her mother the Mrs. Bennet never changes. She CHAPTER 61
news that night. After a measures her daughters'
A year later, Jane and Bingley Elizabeth fulfills her daydreams
moment of shock, Mrs. Bennet successes by the size of their
move into an estate near about Pemberley and, as Darcy
joyfully stutters that Elizabeth husbands' bank accounts. She
Elizabeth and Darcy at had hoped, eased her
will be genteel and rich—even doesn't recognize that Jane and
Pemberley. Mrs. Bennet, attachment to Longbourn. Jane
richer than Jane! Elizabeth Elizabeth have chosen their
extremely proud, visits them and Elizabeth were always the
fears that her mother will husbands for better reasons.
often. Mr. Bennet misses moral center of the family, and
continue to embarrass Darcy,
1 2 3 4 5 Elizabeth and visits frequently, now they are rewarded.
but Mrs. Bennet, because she's
too. Kitty improves in
intimidated, treats him with 1 3 4
character from spending time
uncharacteristic respect.
with her two older sisters.
Mary lives with her parents.
CHAPTER 60
Lydia writes to Elizabeth with Lydia is as opportunistic and
Elizabeth asks Darcy how he Elizabeth and Darcy change congratulations and asks if shameless as ever. She married a
ever fell in love with her. He gradually, through careful Darcy could pitch in some useless man and spends beyond
points to her liveliness of mind, reflection and self-improvement. money for them. Elizabeth is her means. Elizabeth respects
but, like Elizabeth, he can't put This gives their marriage a annoyed, but sends them the Darcy's pride, so she only uses
his finger on when it happened. solidity that Lydia's lacks. money from her own savings. her own savings.
1 4 Lydia sometimes visits
Pemberley, though always 1 3
Elizabeth writes to tell Mrs. The web of letters sent indicates without Wickham, whose
Gardiner of her engagement, how Elizabeth and Darcy's affection for her has waned.
as does Darcy to Lady marriage affects everyone. The
Even though Caroline Bingley Marriage plots are about
Catherine. Mr. Bennet writes fact that the two most shallow
is disappointed by Darcy's compromise. Elizabeth and
to Mr. Collins who, along with and class-conscious
marriage, she tries to make Darcy influence each other. Their
Charlotte, soon return to town characters—Lady Catherine and
nice with Elizabeth. Georgiana marriage also softens Lady
to congratulate the couple and Caroline—disapprove of the
and Elizabeth get along Catherine's prejudices and
steer clear of a furious Lady marriage makes it seem like a
wonderfully, just as Darcy had Caroline's disappointment. The
Catherine. Georgiana Darcy true union of equals based on
hoped. Lady Catherine abuses friendship between the upper-
writes to Elizabeth of her respect, love, and commitment.
Darcy in a letter, but Elizabeth class Darcy and Elizabeth and
happiness at having such a
1 2 3 4 5 eventually encourages him to the middle class Gardiners shows
sister. Caroline Bingley writes
make amends. Lady Catherine that virtue and affection can
empty congratulations to Jane.
eventually accepts the overcome class prejudice.
Jane sees through her shallow
marriage and occasionally
sentiments, but replies with a 1 2 3 4 5
visits. Elizabeth and Darcy
nicer letter than Caroline
remain on close terms with Mr.
deserves.
and Mrs. Gardiner, grateful
Elizabeth tries to insulate Darcy's pride is tempered by his for the Gardiner's role in
Darcy from the foolishness of new humility. Elizabeth looks bringing them together.
Mr. Collins, Sir William Lucas, forward to sharing the new
and Mrs. Philips, but Darcy wealth she has gained.
tolerates them pretty well.
Elizabeth looks forward to 1 2 4 5
hosting her close family at
Pemberley.

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Pride and Prejudice

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