Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research

University of Algiers 2 Abou El Kacem Saadallah

Faculty of Foreign Languages

Department of English

Master Dissertation

Specialism: English Literature and Civilization

Exploring Feminist and Womanist Discourses in

Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary:

Unmasking Gender Dynamics and Empowerment

Dissertation Submitted to the Department of English in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements

for the Degree of Master of English Literature and Civilization

Submitted by: Supervised by:

Celena AMARA Ms. Lilia ZENADJI

Board of Examiners:

Ms. Karima SAOUDI Chair University of Algiers 2

Ms. Lilia ZENADJI Supervisor University of Algiers 2

Ms. Asma ADJOUT Examiner University of Algiers 2

Academic Year: 2022/2023

 Declaration

I hereby affirm that the content of this dissertation titled " Exploring Feminist and Womanist

Discourses in Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary: Unmasking Gender Dynamics and

Empowerment" represents the outcome of my research efforts. I acknowledge and appropriately

reference the work of other scholars whenever it is utilized.

I am fully aware that any instance of plagiarism may lead to disciplinary actions in accordance

with the prevailing rules and regulations set forth by the university. Furthermore, I assert that this

Master's dissertation has not been previously submitted for any other academic qualification.

Name: Celena AMARA

Date: 8/10/2023

Signature:

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 Dedications

I dedicate this work:

To the closest people to my heart who guided my steps from birth till the place
where I am now, my precious parents

To my beloved brothers and my cherished sister-in-law

To my one and only best nephew

To one of the persons who supported me the most in this challenging journey

To my dearest friends who encouraged me all along in hard and fine days

To my loved cat

With all my love and gratitude, I dedicate this precious work.

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 Acknowledgments

First and foremost, I would like to thank Allah the Almighty for giving me the
strength and power to finish this master dissertation.

Immense loads of gratitude and thanks are addressed to my teacher and supervisor
Mrs. ZENADJI Lilia, this work could have never come to existence without your
guidance, help, and priceless advice and patience.

My sincerest acknowledgements go to the board of examiners and namely,

Mrs. ADJOUT

Mrs. SAOUDI

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 Abstract

Written in two different periods and by two different brilliant feminist writers, the
timeless classic Pride and Prejudice of Jane Austen and Helen Fielding’s
contemporary adaptation Bridget Jones’s Diary are books that underline the
evolution of the female figure from the early 19th century to the late 20th century.
This dissertation will highlight the authentic portrayal of women throughout the
centuries and how these ladies were deeply influenced by the prevailing cultural
norms of the time as their lives were centered around domestic duties, marriage and
their well-groomed appearance. Furthermore, this research delves into a
comprehensive comparative analysis of the central feminine characters of the stories,
examining their similarities and differences in several aspects. Through this
investigation and relying on the core concepts of feminist theory such as, patriarchy,
otherness, autonomy, and gender equality, and the womanist notions of
intersectionality and spirituality, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the ways
in which women were perceived and how this approach is still quite relevant
nowadays.

Key words: appearance, marriage, womanism, women, autonomy, feminism.

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 Table of Contents

Declaration ................................................................................................................................ I

Dedication ................................................................................................................................ II

Acknowledgments .................................................................................................................III

Abstract ................................................................................................................................... IV

Table of contents..................................................................................................................... V

Introduction.............................................................................................................................. 1

Chapter One: Gender Roles and Societal Expectations in Pride and

Prejudice and Bridget Jones’s Diary

1. Portraits of Womanhood: A Study of Female Representation in Bridget

Jones's Diary and Pride and Prejudice ....................................................................... 7
1.1 Representation of women in Pride and Prejudice ...................................................... 7
1.2 Representation of women in Bridget Jones’s diary .................................................. 10
2. Unmasking Gender Roles: A Feminist Exploration of Pride and Prejudice and
Bridget Jones's Diary .................................................................................................... 11
2.1 Gender expectations in Pride and Prejudice ............................................................. 11
2.2 Gender expectations in Bridget Jones's Diary ........................................................... 13
3. Navigating Matrimony: A Feminist Lens on Marriage in Pride and Prejudice
and Bridget Jones's Diary ............................................................................................ 15
3.1 Marriage as social currency in Pride and Prejudice ................................................ 15
3.2 Marriage and independence in Bridget Jones's Diary ............................................. 17

Chapter Two: Womanism Portrayed in Bridget Jones and Elizabeth

Bennet

1. The Intersectionality of Bridget Jones and Elizabeth Bennet ............................. 20

2. The Womanist Spirituality of Elizabeth and Bridget's Personalities .............. 23
3. The Reception of Elizabeth and Bridget ....................................................................... 26

Conclusion............................................................................................................................................. 29

Works Cited.......................................................................................................................................... 30

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Introduction
"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune
must be in want of a wife." (Austen) With this iconic opening sentence, Jane Austen guides
readers into the world of Pride and Prejudice, a novel that encapsulates the social and
matrimonial intricacies of early 19th-century Regency-era England. Written in a time
marked by rigid societal hierarchies and the importance of advantageous marriages for
women, Austen's work provides a rich tapestry of characters and relationships that reflect
the predominant norms and values of her era. In a seemingly disparate era, Helen Fielding's
Bridget Jones's Diary emerges as a modern-day reinterpretation, glorifying the late 20th
century and its shifting dynamics in love, career, and individual identity. With its
contemporary London setting, it humorously navigates the complexities of dating, work,
and self-discovery in a world characterized by evolving gender roles. This dissertation
embarks on a comparative exploration of these literary masterpieces, examining how they
both reflect and diverge from the societal contexts in which they were written, illuminating
the themes' enduring relevance and the revolutionary influence of their respective eras on
issues of the heart and self.

In both Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones’s Diary, the portrayal of marriage and
gender roles serves as a central thematic focus. Austen’s novel distinctly illustrates the
societal expectations placed upon women to secure beneficial marriages. The characters
navigate a world where financial security and social status influence marriage decisions,
and Elizabeth particularly, challenges conventional stereotypes through her rebel persona.
While, Bridget Jones’s Diary, set in modern London, explores the complexities of dating
and career aspirations. Bridget struggles with evolving gender dynamics of the late 20th
century, where women seek personal and professional fulfillment but also the pursuit of
love. Both novels offer an analysis of the enduring pressure between societal expectations
and individual desires in the context of marriage and gender roles, despite the vastly
different time frames in which they were written.

The stories under scrutiny, expose significant critiques of patriarchal conventions as

well as intelligent explorations of the multiple intersections of gender with other important
social elements such as class, race, and sexuality. A startling revelation occurs as we
looked through the prism of this comparative investigation.

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 Despite their disparate time periods, these two works share an unbreakable thread that
runs through their narrative fabric: the brazen challenge to traditional gender roles and
societal expectations. Pride and Prejudice set in the early nineteenth century, provides a
vivid portrait of a society in which a woman's worth is frequently determined by her marital
position and social standing. In contrast, Bridget Jones's Diary a late-twentieth-century
work, depicts the modern woman's constant navigating of the complications posed by
career, relationships, and the never-ending search for self-identity.

Despite these differences, both novels resound with the timeless struggle of women—
to express their power, carve out their identities, and fight the constraints that cultural
standards frequently impose. Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones, each iconic of their own
eras, transform into icons of steadfast independence, resilience, and authenticity, building
ties that resonate with readers through generations.

The main question that motivated our research is the desire to examine how the female
protagonists in Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary challenge conventional
gender roles and societal expectations. This investigation seeks to illuminate the evolution
of women's agency, empowerment, and intersectional experiences through feminist and
womanist theories.

At the heart of our research, we embark on an enlightening journey into the dimensions
of these literary masterpieces: Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and Helen Fielding's
Bridget Jones's Diary. Despite the centuries and cultural circumstances that separate them,
these novels have revealed a rich tapestry of insights on the intricate lives of women and
their unwavering desire of autonomy and authenticity.

This master’s thesis will investigate on the themes of societal expectations, marriage,
individuality, and financial independence in both novels. It will also analyze and explore
gender inequality between men and women and how did it influence the characters’
behaviour within the novel. Moreover, our investigation includes a careful evaluation of
the nuanced portrayals of female agency and intersectionality in these stories. We have
walked the convoluted roads taken by characters like Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones,
learning how they deal with the maze of cultural restraints and expectations that surround
them. Through a detail analysis, this dissertation aims to compare between two timeless

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British novels and shed light on the similarities and the differences between the two
protagonists Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones.

Additionally, this comparative analysis will eventually contribute to the existing body
of scholarship on both Bridget Jones’s Diary and Pride and Prejudice and will offer an
enhanced comprehension of the societal pressures and expectations placed on women.
This in-depth examination of the novels as vehicles for feminist and womanist ideas will
reveal the complexities woven into the tapestry of women's lives. It will, also, highlight
their victories, emphasize their problems, and recognize their unwavering commitment to
a more just, inclusive, and equitable society.

These literary gems continue to shine brightly, guiding us through the maze of gender
relations, cultural expectations, and the changing roles of women in ever-changing
situations. Their importance as cultural cornerstones remains undiminished, resonating
deeply with readers, researchers, and feminists alike. It demonstrates the continuing
influence of literature in impacting discussions about women's experiences and their
never-ending journey toward empowerment and self-realization.

The novels have been studied from several critical theories, including the feminist
perspective, which mainly focuses on the womanliness of the female characters and their
aspiration to break free from the societal expectations.

A study conducted by Parker Jones, entitled “Narrative style and the Female Story in
Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones’s diary, and The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” argues that
modern feminism is challenged in Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones’s Diary as It
examines the challenges women face today when they try to reach a balance between their
personal lives, careers, and happiness.

Another research named “In Search of a Man: A Comparative Analysis of the Marriage
Plot in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Helen Fielding’s Bridget Jones’s Diary” by
Lina Widlund investigate on the theme of matrimonial issues through a feminist lens. The
article argues that the marriage plot permeates the whole novel in both Pride and Prejudice
and Bridget Jones's Diary, and that the mothers of Elizabeth and Bridget are very
demanding and nervous women whose greatest wish is to have their daughters well
married.

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 The present dissertation opts for feminist theory as the most suitable fitting theory to
analyze the first chapter in order to reach the study’s aim and answer the research
questions.

The feminist theory is a theoretical technique used in literary criticism that aims to
analyze themes of gender inequality, discrimination, women’s objectification and societal
oppression. Feminist literary criticism emerged as a response to the patriarchal tradition of
literature that needs to be criticized through the core concepts of feminism.

In this chapter, the concept of gender equality which is a feminist notion that refers to
the equal rights and opportunities for both genders alike, is used to analyze the journey of
Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones. The concept seeks to put an end to sexism and gender
discrimination. Besides, in the representation of women within the novels, the concept of
otherness is used to explore male’s perception of women. Otherness is an idea that
emerged from Simone De Beauvoir’s work “The Second Sex”, “he is the subject, he is the
absolute – she is the other” (16), as it is used to examine how women are built as “the other
sex” by men to conform their standards. Moreover, oppression and patriarchy were applied
to study the society’s pressure exerted on the protagonists. Patriarchy is a feminist idea that
refers to the social system in which positions of dominance and privilege are primarily
held by men and can sometimes be unjust and harmful to women. While, oppression refers
to the way in which the system goes against individuals regarding sex, gender, race…etc.
Marilyn Frye compares the oppression of women to the situation of a bird in a cage (11).
This feminist lens is used to shed light on people’s interaction within a society with strong
rooted expectations. Ultimately, autonomy, a crucial value in feminist theory, is employed
to highlight the ability of the female characters within the novel to make decisions without
being influenced by the traditional prevailing norms.

The chapter two will be treated from a womanist perspective. Womanism is a term
coined by the American author Alice Walker in order to reflect on the issues faced by black
women in North America. The term suggests in its explanation to be “From womanish.
(Opp. of "girlish," i.e., frivolous, irresponsible, not serious.) A black feminist or feminist
of color. From the black folk expression of mothers to female children, "You acting

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womanish," i.e., like a woman. Usually referring to outrageous, audacious, courageous or
willful behavior.

The Womanist literary theory contains many notions that analyse the situation of
women. Two main terms are intersectionality and womanist spirituality. “Intersectionality
identifies multiple factors of advantage and disadvantage. This includes one’s race, class,
sex, gender, sexuality and so on” (Bajaj), in other words, this term symbolises not only the
fact that a female is being oppressed, but also while taking into consideration other
elements that should be inclusive when deciding whether an act is oppressive or not.
Hence, it opens new paths of discrimination of other less privileged women in their
societies. Furthermore, Womanist spirituality is another concept that defines the theory.
The spirituality of the women is considered as situated “at the heart of womanist thought
and praxis” (2), meaning that it is a pivotal factor of the womanist in order to fight for their
cause. The notion of spirituality is split into many characteristics, in which four main ones
are holistic, personal, visionary and pragmatic. Since womanist spirituality is rooted from
the black church, being holistic is one important pillar where the woman’s religious
identity is a contemplating aspect of her personality because of the historical situation
where many black women were forced into being Christian when arriving to America (93),
hence the womanist should consider the roots of her true holistic nature. In addition,
“Knowledge may come from internal or external sources, but the verification and
validation of knowledge is inherently and ultimately an internal and personal process”,
signifying that the womanist should have her own path of growing up and acquiring
suitable and acceptable wisdom. Also, being visionary means that the womanist has to act
in accordance with solving “big problems” in the likes of wars and earth related issues, on
top of that the womanist focuses on the everyday issues of her life and her own personal
surroundings (101). Lastly, being pragmatic suggests working on the womanist self in the
way that is realistic and practical where she should maintain a productive style of life (Layli
155).

This master dissertation is divided into two main chapters. The first chapter is entitled
“Gender Roles and Societal Expectations in Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones’s
Diary”. In this first part, we begin our journey with a comprehensive analysis of the various

5
representation of women in the literary classics Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones'
Diary. We study the female characters, Elizabeth Bennet and Bridget Jones, through the
discriminating lens of feminism, assessing their actions, decisions, and the complexities of
their personalities. This investigation aims to shed light on the intricacies of these women,
as well as the amount to which they question or align with societal expectations of their
respective eras. The chapter serves as a pivotal entry point into the heart of our analysis,
not only delving into the intricate character dynamics but also laying the groundwork for
broader discussions about gender roles and women's agency, ultimately setting the stage
for an in-depth exploration of the literary landscapes that Austen and Fielding have so
deftly crafted.

Our inquiry continues in the second chapter, aptly titled “Womanism Portrayed in
Bridget Jones and Elizabeth Bennet” where key womanist themes and how they are
present in both Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary will be explored. Firstly,
we will examine the concept of intersectionality and how it is portrayed in the characters
of Elizabeth from Pride and Prejudice and Bridget from Bridget Jones's Diary. This will
highlight the unique challenges each character faces while taking into consideration their
contemporary environments. Next, we will delve into womanist spirituality and focus on
four of its core elements: holistic, personal, visionary, and pragmatic. The aim is to analyse
how these aspects manifest in both characters and to what extent they align with the
principles of authentic spirituality. Finally, we will examine the receptions of both books
and explore whether they can be seen as a call for standing by womanist standards and
embracing womanist values, despite the differences in time and place.

In conclusion, these two chapters give a structured foundation for our comparison of
Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary. They lead us through the subtle aspects of
gender roles, societal expectations, feminist and womanist ideas, and their reception and
impact on these important literary masterpieces

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 Chapter One: Gender Roles and Societal
Expectations in Pride and Prejudice and Bridget
Jones’s Diary
In the realm of literature, the exploration of gender roles and societal expectations
has been a recurring and compelling theme. This chapter embarks on an analytical
journey, delving into two iconic novels, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and
Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding, to dissect the representation of women
within the social landscapes of the nineteenth century and contemporary society. By
scrutinizing the experiences and challenges faced by female characters in these
works, we aim to unearth the evolution of gender roles and the impact of societal
norms on women across different historical eras. According to a feminist lens, we
will uncover the commonalities and disparities in how women navigate the intricate
web of expectations, autonomy, and self- discovery in their respective contexts.
Through an examination of these novels, we will navigate their pages, peeling back
the layers of time to reveal the timeless struggle for identity and agency in a world
governed by conventions.

1. Portraits of Womanhood: A Study of Female Representation in Bridget

Jones's Diary and Pride and Prejudice
1.1 Representation of women in Pride and Prejudice

In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen depicts a society where women's value is often
determined by their marriage prospects and social status. Elizabeth Bennet stands out
as a female role model of her era, defying entrenched gender stereotypes by
prioritizing intelligence and sincere affection over financial stability in marriage.
Through Elizabeth and other female characters, Austen astutely critiques the
constraints placed on women in their time.

Austen’s narrative transports readers to early 19th-century England, a time where

social customs and strict expectations for women were deeply ingrained. Women's
worth was frequently based on their ability to secure a prosperous and advantageous
spouse. Qualities/traits like beauty, modesty and reserve were expected
standards/traits. This societal perspective is reflected in Mr. Darcy’s initial
assessment of Elizabeth when he declared, "She is tolerable; but not handsome
enough to tempt me; and I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young
ladies who are slighted by other men" (Austen 7). This quote reflects Mr. Darcy's

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initial judgment of Elizabeth based on her appearance. His choice of words,
particularly "tolerable" suggests that he only saw Elizabeth as merely acceptable. The
phrase "not handsome enough to tempt me" reinforces this idea and highlights the
importance of physical appearance in Austen's novel. Feminism criticizes the
physical expectations placed on women to conform men’s criteria. The feminist
concept that explores the importance of physical appearance in this passage is
otherness which is derived from the work of Simone de Beauvoir as she argues "Thus
humanity is male and man defines woman not in herself but as relative to him." (15)
This quote shows how she claims that women are depicted as the "other" sex and that
how their self-identity is shaped by men in order to suit their standards. Mr. Darcy's
declaration supports the concept of otherness, where women are the out-group, and
men are the norm. This creates a hierarchy where men are shown as being superior to
women.

The significance of marriage as a central theme in the book highlights the pressures
that women experienced from societal expectations to live up to them. The main
character, Elizabeth Bennet, is a feminist icon and a trailblazer. Her intellect,
independence of thought, and resistance to adhering to social norms make her stand
out. Contrary to many other young women of her time, Elizabeth refuses to see
marriage as her only goal in life. Her unequivocal refusal of Mr. Collins underscores
her determination, “I am perfectly serious in my refusal. You could not make me
happy, and I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world who could make
you so." (Austen 76) In this quote, Elizabeth completely dismissed the idea of
marrying solely for social status or financial gain, even if it means turning down a
proposal from a wealthy man like Mr. Collins. Besides, Austen’s use of direct
characterizations reveals the strong will and independent nature of the protagonist,
which are key aspects of feminist women.

Elizabeth consistently rejects suitors who fail to meet her personal criteria of
mutual respect and genuine affection. Her challenge to established social norms
regarding matrimony demonstrates both her visionary nature and her ability to forge
her own path in a society heavily governed by strict conventions. Austen skillfully

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uses Elizabeth's character to critique the limitations imposed on women of her time.
Through dialogues and events, she highlights gender inequalities and societal
pressures that fair gender faced.

Austen often infuses humor to draw attention to these injustices, which gives the
novel more substance. This humor serves as a tool to satirize the absurdities of the
marriage market, where women are expected to marry for financial security and social
status rather than love. For instance, Elizabeth's refusal of Mr. Collins' request
humorously comments on the expectations placed on women to enter wedlock for
practical reason. Moreover, the novel also sheds the light on the lack of support
among women at a time where achieving independence was rare. Indeed, the
dynamics of the relationship between Elizabeth’s sister alongside other female
characters within the narrative are uncontestable proof of competition and their
attempts to put down each other in a world where they were already marginalized.
Brianne P. Epley claims in his thesis: In 'Competition Between Women in Pride and
Prejudice':

“I focus on the ways that competition drives relationships between women both
in and out of the family. For instance, Mrs. Bennet competes with those around
her by trying to find husbands for her daughters before her neighbors complete
the same task for their own daughters. Mrs. Bennet’s attitude about competition
with neighbors is not limited to herself, as her daughters mostly seem to share the
notion that competition with others is the most viable option. Competition even
comes out between the sisters, and Lydia’s actions show she cares more about
men and marrying than about the future stability of her sisters. Even Elizabeth
exhibits a tendency toward competition, as we see in her instant dislike and
mistrust of the Bingley sisters”. (8)

This quote suggests that competition is a pervasive theme in the novel, driving the
actions of many of the female characters and shaping their relationships with one
another. Feminist theory asserts that women frequently compete with each other in
patriarchal societies and that this competition is an explicit result of the pressure put
on women by societal expectations. Feminism advocates for female unity and
highlights the importance of women’s supporting each other, especially, in a society
influenced by patriarchy.

To conclude, Elizabeth emerges as a role model for independence and defiance

against the oppressive standards of her time. In its exploration of gender disparities

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and the value of self-determination, the novel offers profound insights into the
struggles and aspirations of women in that time period.

1.2 Representation of women in Bridget Jones’s diary

Set in modern-day London, Bridget Jones's Diary follows the journey of its main
character Bridget Jones, a contemporary woman traversing the difficult terrains of
career, relationships, and self-identity. Within the contemporary backdrop, Bridget
stands as a dynamic figure, embodying the changing roles and expectations of women
in the late 20th century and early 21st century.

Her persona encapsulates a woman’s struggle to balance her career, love life, and
personal growth. However, beneath the surface of Bridget's humorous and relatable
misadventures lies a poignant exploration of the pressures placed on women to excel
not only professionally, but romantically as well. The novel explores Bridget’s inner
struggles regarding feminism in her life and the intrusive nature of societal
expectations, as she was lost and grappling between her desire to succeed in her career
and her will to achieve the ultimate societal goal of getting married and have children.

Fielding portrayed Bridget as a modern feminist who is determined to reach

personal and professional fulfillment. Her quest for love, often marked by humorous
mishaps, underscores the societal expectation that women must excel not only in their
careers but also their relationships. "He boomed, 'So you still haven't got a feller!'
'Bridget! What are we going to do with you!' said Una. 'You career girls! I don't know!
Can't put it off forever, you know. Tick-tock-tick-tock'". (Fielding 12) The quote
reveals how Bridget's married friends and their spouses are pressuring her to find a
husband but also highlights the stereotype that women who focus on their careers are
less likely to find a partner. This stereotype is problematic from a feminist perspective
as it reinforces the idea that women should prioritize their personal life over their
career.

Furthermore, Bridget Jones’s Diary depicted a positive and supportive picture of

female friendship. The dynamics of the relation between Bridget and her friends are
a significant aspect of novel. It explores the importance of friendship and the support
that friends can provide during difficult times. As Mr. Jones says, "When someone

10
loves you it's like having a blanket all round your heart”. (Fielding 41) This quote
suggests that love and friendship can provide comfort and warmth during difficult
times.

In summary, Bridget Jones's Diary offers a captivating depiction of a

contemporary womanhood as it negotiates the intricacies of modern life. In a time
when cultural standards are changing, yet the pursuit of love and personal balance
still remains a universal and frequently amusing quest.

2. Unmasking Gender Roles: A Feminist Exploration of Pride and Prejudice and

Bridget Jones's Diary
2.1 Gender expectations in Pride and Prejudice

In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, the narrative paints a vivid and evocative
portrait of early 19th-century England, a society where gender roles are deeply
entrenched and societal expectations heavily influence the lives of its female
inhabitants. The female characters, notably exemplified by the central character
Elizabeth Bennet, are subjected to significant societal pressures. The most prominent
of which revolves around the imperative to secure advantageous marriages. Elizabeth
Bennet emerges as a remarkable figure who defies these deeply ingrained norms and
challenges the status quo. Rather than conforming to the prevailing societal
expectations, Elizabeth embarks on a quest for a life partner driven by mutual
affection and intellectual compatibility.

This is a marked departure from the widely held belief that women of her
generation should put financial security and social standing over genuine love and
compatibility. Jane Austen's critique of gender standards pervades the entire story.
Austen creates a captivating portrayal of a woman who actively fights the assumption
that her worth is decided only by her ability to arrange an affluent marriage, as
exemplified by Elizabeth. Her ambition to find a partner who values her intelligence
and persona rather than her dowry disrupts her society's established rules.

Throughout the course of the book, Elizabeth navigates a society where marriage
is both a social necessity and a deeply personal decision. A major theme of Pride and
Prejudice is the examination of the conflict between personal ambitions and society

11
standards. It prompts readers to consider the ongoing struggle that women endured in
a culture that often-placed greater value on social standing and financial stability than
on emotional well-being and personal fulfillment.

Gender roles expectations and feminism are closely related topics, as the feminist
movement advocates for gender equality and fights the societal norms. Elizabeth
Bennet is an inveterate feminist, according to her perspective men and women are
equal. This affirms her belief in the chapter 56 when she declared to Lady de
Borough, "In marrying your nephew, I should not consider myself as quitting that
sphere. He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman’s daughter; so far, we are equal". (Austen
249) What can be gasped from this previous quote in that her sayings contribute to
the feminist ideology by elevating the status of women at the same level of men which
can only call for equality between both genders. As she says that she is a gentlemen’s
daughter, she gives the certitude that she is as equal as Darcy by highlighting that the
importance of being does not rely on their gender.

During the Regency era, women were often considered as inferior to men, a mere
reflection of the societal norms and values of the time, that placed men in positions
of power and women in subservient roles. Elizabeth Bennet, the protagonist of Pride
and Prejudice, refused to perpetuate traditional female stereotypes that dictated
dependence on men for their social and economic stability. Austen challenges theses
gender roles and expectations by portraying Elizabeth as a strong advocate of
feminism and female independence that breaks free from traditionally submissive
forms of femininity and maintains her individuality and identity.

As G.D. Anderson aptly stated: "Feminism isn't about making women stronger,
women are already strong, it's about changing the way the world perceives that
strength". The quote suggests that the focus of feminism is on changing the way the
world perceives women's strength. This statement highlights the importance of
challenging gender stereotypes and expectations that limit women's opportunities and
choices. Mary Wollstonecraft argued for equality between men and women in her
work: ’A Vindication of the Rights of Woman’, firmly convinced that women should

12
have the same rights as men and should be treated the exact same way: "Let woman
share the rights and she will emulate the virtues of man". (218)

Wollstonecraft, known as the founding mother of feminism, had a critical

perspective on gender inequality and advocated for women's rights, emphasizing the
importance of education and equal opportunities for both genders. Her revolutionary
ideas laid the foundation for the feminist movement and continue to inspire
discussions on gender equality and women's empowerment to this day.

By relying on the feminist theory, we ascertain that Elizabeth's character serves a

feminist icon as she defies the societal norms of her time, refuses to conform to the
gender roles assigned to her and worked vigorously to proclaim women equal to men.

Gender conventions in early nineteenth-century England are handled in an

engaging and nuanced way in Pride and Prejudice. Jane Austen explores the
problems of navigating a world where cultural standards usually collide with personal
desires and goals through her feminist protagonist Elizabeth Bennet, providing
crucial information about the changing roles and expectations of women at the time.

2.2 Gender expectations in Bridget Jones's Diary

In Helen Fielding's novel, Bridget Jones's Diary, the exploration of gender

expectations takes center stage offering a poignant portrayal of contemporary societal
attitudes towards women and their prescribed roles. Through Bridget’s experience,
the novel highlights the tension between societal expectations and the individual's
desire for self-discovery and empowerment.

Gender inequality is vividly depicted across the novel through the rigid
expectations and roles imposed on women by the patriarchal society of modern
England. A young lady was expected to behave in a certain manner to conform to the
norms and earn the respect of the society. However, Bridget broke these deeply-
rooted norms, choosing to navigate her world as she wants.

The passage involving Bridget’s interaction with Mark Darcy at the New Year's
party provides glimpses into her character.

13
 'Have you been staying with your parents over New Year?' 'Yes,' he said eagerly.
'You too?' 'Yes. No. I was at a party in London last night. Bit hungover, actually.'
I gabbled nervously so that Una and Mum wouldn't think I was so useless with
men I was failing to talk to even Mark Darcy. 'But then I do think New Year's
resolutions can't technically be expected to begin on New Year's Day, don't you?
Since, because it's an extension of New Year's Eve, smokers are already on a
smoking roll and cannot be expected to stop abruptly on the stroke of midnight
with so much nicotine in the system. Also dieting on New Year's Day isn't a good
idea as you can't eat rationally but really need to be free to consume whatever is
necessary, moment by moment, in order to ease your hangover. I think it would
be much more sensible if resolutions began generally on January the second.'
'Maybe you should get something to eat,' he said’. (Fielding 13).

This quote shows Bridget’s nervousness as she attempts to impress Mark Darcy. Her
discourse comes across as awkward and inappropriate, revealing her alcoholic party
girl side but also her lack of social skills. The responses of Mark Darcy to the situation
shows his disdain to her ungracious and chaotic personality as he says 'Maybe you
should get something to eat' because food helps get rid of hangovers.

Feminism advocates for women’s right to make choices without being judged, or
limited by gender stereotypes or societal expectations. The movement aims to put an
end to sexism and to achieve full gender equality in law and in practice.

Emma Watson and Gloria Steinem in response to the critics received after the
Vanity Fair Article “Feminism at its core is about choice. Feminists can wear
whatever they want. If we cannot choose freely how to behave, speak, act and present
ourselves, then we’re moving backward” the emphasis here is on the freedom and the
autonomy of a woman to pursue actions that match her personal preferences. This
spirit precisely aligns with the ethos embodied by the character of Bridget Jones as
she refuses to conform to the norms of the contemporary western society where
women were expected to be polite, submissive, and deferential to men.

Furthermore, Fielding employs stream of consciousness1, a tool used in feminist

literary criticism as a way to give an inner voice to marginalized women in order to
challenges the patriarchal discourses. In her inner monologue Bridget claims, "I
gabbled nervously so that Una and Mum wouldn't think I was so useless with men I
was failing to talk to even Mark Darcy" (Fielding 13). This continuous flow of

1
Stream of Consciousness: a literary technique that presents a character's inner thoughts, feelings,
and perceptions in a continuous and unfiltered flow.

14
thoughts reveals the protagonist's nervousness and anxiety regarding the eventual
opinion of the people around her but also her desire to do good and to seduce Mark
Darcy without pretense.

Feminist critics argue that Bridget's character is flawed but relatable, which
challenges the idea that women need to be perfect and flawless. Kelly A. Marsh
claims, "Ultimately she (Bridget) rejects the American dream of a perfected self in
favor of the Blair-era British communitarianism that facilitates both her personal
success and the success of her narrative". (Marsh)

In other words, Bridget rejects the idea of trying to be perfect, that is often associated
with the American dream, a concept of the American popular culture that can be
associated with the pursuit of material success, which lead to a focus on physical
appearance and the image that an individual reflects. Instead, she adopts a British
way of thinking, set by Tony Blair, that calls to the value of community and working
together.

To conclude, Helen Fielding portrayed Bridget Jones as an emblematic modern

feminist who challenges the entrenched physical and moral expectations imposed by
the society and choose the freedom of being herself which is, according to the
feminist theory, a crucial aspect of understanding the oppression of women. Her
character embodies the idea that true empowerment arises from embracing one's
uniqueness, rather than conforming to external ideals.

3. Navigating Matrimony: A Feminist Lens on Marriage in Pride and Prejudice

and Bridget Jones's Diary
3.1 Marriage as social currency in Pride and Prejudice

In Jane Austen's meticulously crafted world of Pride and Prejudice, marriage takes
center stage as a critical social currency that plays a pivotal role in determining a
woman's position and status within society. The novel astutely illustrates the
tremendous pressure that characters like Elizabeth Bennet face in their pursuit of a
suitable spouse, revealing the overarching societal emphasis on the economic and
social advantages that marriage can bestow. Elizabeth, as a central character,
experiences this pressure firsthand.

15
 The quest of advantageous matches for the Bennet sisters, is made more urgent by
her family's financial situation and the social consequences of their estate's
entailment. This reality come to light through Mrs. Bennet’s exclamation,

"Oh! my dear," cried his wife, "I cannot bear to hear that mentioned. Pray do not
talk of that odious man. I do think it is the hardest thing in the world, that your
estate should be entailed away from your own children; and I am sure, if I had
been you, I should have tried long ago to do something or other about it". (Austen
76)

In this passage Mrs. Bennet flips when she hears Mr. Collins’s name, as she expressed
her frustration with the fact that her daughters cannot inherit their father's estate and
they have to get married because marriage was often the only way for women to
secure their social and economic status.

Austen highlighted the limited options available to women in the Regency era and
pointed up the importance of financial independence for women, which is an essential
tenet of feminist theory since women empowered by financial independence possess
the agency to shape their own destinies. Therefore, financial independence is crucial
for women's empowerment and gender equality.

Furthermore, the portrayal of marriage as a social currency in the novel is criticized

by feminist scholars, who argue that it perpetuates gender inequalities and limits
women's agency. Jennifer Kloester said once: "A woman of the Regency period had
no other occupation than to find a husband" (72), the passage suggests that the women
of the Regency Period had no educational or employment opportunities, thus, finding
a husband was the only way to secure financial stability. Similarly, to Kloester,
Austen’s viewed marriage as the only way for a young woman to guarantee a decent
future.

From a feminist standpoint, the representation of marriage in Austen’s novel Pride

and Prejudice reinforces traditional, patriarchal notions of matrimony. The feminist
theory advocates for the abolishment of women’s financial dependency on men and
criticized the societal norms of that era dictated by the patriarchy.

Despite this unpleasant depiction of marriage in Pride and Prejudice, Austen

presents Elizabeth Bennet as the feminist who breaks free from the rooted

16
expectations of the society. Professor Taher Badinjki asserts in his work, "In the
marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy, Austen portrays an opposite picture of the
established norms. She tries to convey the message that individuals should take
decisions without taking into consideration society’ construct and conventional
attitudes". (44) This quote emphasizes Elizabeth's refusal to marry for financial
security and social status, opting instead for love- a choice challenging the prevailing
norms of her time, offering a feminist perspective of female independence and
individuality.

This economic aspect of marriage is deeply ingrained in the novel's portrayal of

society, and it serves as a driving force behind many of the characters' actions and
decisions. Interestingly, even male characters like Mr. Darcy are not exempt from the
influence of these gendered expectations. Initially defined by his immense wealth and
high social standing, Mr. Darcy undergoes a significant transformation throughout
the novel.

His character development demonstrates how cultural expectations shape and

confine individuals of both genders. Mr. Darcy's eventual union to Elizabeth is a key
plot point that emphasizes the novel's underlying theme: genuine and pure love can
transcend societal constraints. Their love story challenges societal standards since it
is based on mutual respect, affection, and intellectual compatibility rather than
economic calculations or social gains. Pride and Prejudice delivers a profound
commentary on the complicated interaction of cultural constraints, gender
expectations, and the quest for real love and happiness through the perspective of
marriage. It invites readers to evaluate the lasting importance of these themes in the
context of relationships and societal expectations, as well as how concepts of love are
constructed.

3.2 Marriage and independence in Bridget Jones's Diary

Fielding's novel Bridget Jones's Diary sheds the light on the balance between societal
expectations and personal desires in the context of modern relationships. Bridget's
pursuit of love challenges the notion that women can effortlessly have it all,
underscoring the complexities of contemporary gender dynamics. Her journey serves

17
as a reflection of evolving gender roles and the ongoing quest for personal and
professional fulfillment, even within the confine of marriage.

While marriage is an important point that is treated differently than in Jane

Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones may not feel the same economic pressure
to get married as Elizabeth Bennett, but she still contends great societal pressure to
find the right partner. For instance, when Brian Enderby exclaims, “Yes. How does a
woman manage to get to your age without being married?' roared Brian Enderby”
(Fielding 12). Here, Bridget's age is an important factor in the societal expectations
she faces regarding her singleness.

Feminist theory critiques the institution of marriage itself, arguing that it can be
problematic for women as it may perpetuate gender inequality but it can also be a
positive force for change, if it is based on mutual respect. Bridget Jones's Diary
challenges traditional gender expectations prevalent in the modern western society
that often compel women in their thirties to feel pressure to settle down and marry.

The assertion “I am a woman of substance and do not need men in order to be

complete” directly challenges traditional patriarchal belief that women need men to
be complete. Bridget affirms her independence and self-sufficiency, which is
consistent with feminist ideals of empowerment and autonomy. Besides, the parallel
structure of "a woman of substance" and "do not need men in order to be complete"
strengthens the idea that Bridget is a strong and independent character who does not
define herself by her relationships with men.

Although Bridget did not get married and has not expressed her will to marry, she
truly yearns to find the right partner in order to experience authentic love, "I will not:
Sulk about having no boyfriend, but develop inner poise and authority and sense of
self as woman of substance, complete without boyfriend, as best way to obtain
boyfriend". (Fielding 7). This passage demonstrates Bridget’s constant search for
love. It shows the importance of self-love and self-worth in attracting healthy
relationships, which are important aspects of feminism, as they help women to
recognize their own value and worth and to fight societal expectations. Moreover, the
latter statement is paradoxical as it suggests that being complete without a boyfriend

18
is the best way to find one. The paradoxical formulation of this quote underlines
Bridget's self-awareness and her resolve to challenge societal expectations and define
herself on her own terms.

Ultimately, Bridget Jones, the protagonist of Bridget Jones's Diary, is a character

who embraces freedom as the key to feminism. She epitomizes the modern feminist
who is determined to define and assert herself. Despite her desire to find love, Bridget
refuses to compromise her values nor her career for the sake of a man or societal
expectations. As Simone de Beauvoir claims, “women achieve economic parity, they
will no longer be obliged to marry". (90) This passage, from Simone de Beauvoir's
essay "Marriage, Autonomy, and the Feminine Protest" conveys an important
message, as she says that achieving economic parity would give women greater
autonomy and freedom of choice in their personal lives, including the choice to marry
or not. This affirmation is the very essence of feminism as the movement seeks to
accomplish gender and economic equality between men and women.

To conclude, Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones's Diary offer fascinating
perspectives on how marriage and the roles of women have evolved through time.
Fielding's work paints today's struggle for autonomy and fulfillment, in contrast to
Austen's masterpiece, which exposes the fixed gender stereotypes of the early
nineteenth century. By examining these works through a feminist perspective, we
may acquire a deeper awareness of how social norms regarding gender and marriage
have formed and continue to influence the lives of individuals.

19
Chapter Two: Womanism Portrayed in Bridget
Jones and Elizabeth Bennet
This chapter will delve into major and several Womanist themes from both works.
First, it will discuss the notion of intersectionality and how it is perceived in Pride
and Prejudice's Elizabeth and Bridget Jones's Diary's Bridget, signifying the
uniqueness of both characters' struggle with their contemporary surroundings. After
that, Womanist spirituality and four of its essences (holistic, personal, visionary and
pragmatic) will be raised and scrutinised in both characters to discern the extent of
whether the characters resemble the authentic Womanist. Then, we will attempt to
study samples of the receptions of both books and observe that kind of reception can
be considered, despite the different spatiotemporal settings, as a call for adhering to
womanist standards and womanist embrace

1. The Intersectionality of Bridget Jones and Elizabeth Bennet

Elizabeth's notion of struggles originates from her figure as a member of a middle to

lower class family, which indicates a stereotypical definition of marriage and that any
issues from the family's behalf can be proceeded by severe backlash from its society.
In the novel, we perceive that Jane Austen “portrays women's dependence on
marriage for social security” (Badinjki,44), meaning that the women at the Regency
era did not have options other than to secure a wealthy man for marriage. However,
Elizabeth did not approach marriage from this arbitrary path. “She believes that
affection, friendship and respect are major elements of a happy and strong marriage”
(Blom,22), which signifies a unique stance from the character where she does not
conform to social standards and tries to create the pact of marriage according to her
own feminist beliefs. This creates many innate outbreaks to the character, such as
feelings of angst (Prior), and it can be regarded as an intersectional issue for the
character that shows the psychological effects of the character's special marriage
choices. Moreover, in chapter 41, Lydia elopes to Wickham. A turn of event that the
main character claims to be “of the very great disadvantage to us all which must arise
from the public notice of Lydia’s un-guarded and imprudent manner—nay, which has
already arisen from it”(Austen,161). We observe that Elizabeth's concern about this
whole incident is her family's reputation and it can be inferred from her words that
any damage to it could be fatal (Hannaford). Furthermore, her father's passivity is

20
also a threat where he does not feel the necessity of reaction concerning the whole
situation and says that “She is luckily too poor to be an object of prey to anybody”
(Austen,162). Hence, this could be referred to as an intersectional incident that
portrays the uniqueness of Elizabeth's struggle considering the whole setting of the
Regency period, where family status and its reputation was a pivotal factor that could
harm her if it was devastated. In other words, Elizabeth's status and plans for marriage
and for her future in general would have an eventual failure caused by uncontrollable
events. Also, the social doctrines that the Regency women at that time must follow
from respecting family structure and not going against her father's words is another
uncontrollable point that threatens her plans (Washington), which reinforces the
complexity of her struggle.

Bridget Jones, on the other hand, has her share of struggles with her own
appearance and family pressure. As illustrated in her mother's persuasion of involving
the character in a relationship, Bridget's mom, several times in the novel, attempts to
set up a meeting for her daughter with Mark Darcy, who is a divorced wealthy man.
These occurrences are shown multiple times in the novel where her mother says

“Out of the blue, "Do you remember Mark Darcy, darling? Malcolm and Elaine's
son? He's one of these super-dooper top-notch lawyers. Divorced. Elaine says he
works all the time and he's terribly lonely. I think he might be coming to Una's
New Year's Day Turkey Curry Buffet, actually” (Fielding,12)

This quote shows the implicit inducement that Bridget is facing throughout the whole
novel. And while Bridget is taking a “Cold behaviour” (March) stance towards that
man, her mother continues to impose her expectations on her which “plays a fairly
complex role in Bridget's thinking”. Thus, the encounter can be regarded as an
intersectional obstacle that Bridget is facing in her life as a thirty years old woman,
which leads her to “feel guilty by overwhelming her with a sense of her own
unexplored possibilities”. Henceforth, indicating the sense of a complicated issue
where she feels as if she will sacrifice good things if she does not explore those
choices. In addition, Bridget is observed mentioning her weight status and
consumption of alcohol and cigarettes throughout the whole diary of hers. For
instance," (9st 3 (but post-Christmas), alcohol units 14 (but effectively covers 2 days

21
as 4 hours of party was on New Year's Day), cigarettes 22, calories
5424.)"(Fielding,10). And although these notes are written in a humorous tone, it does
seem that her inability to respect an efficient set of rules do serve her as an annoyance
(Franjic, 3). This portrays a sense of overthinking that chases Bridget throughout the
whole novel. Overthinking can be regarded as a mental problem where it " creates
more stress by focusing on the negative"(Duke), which in the case of Bridget Jones
is a factor that leads her to feel bothersome about her own appearance. Thus, it can
be established that this is an inner intersectional struggle that the character faces
where Bridget is constantly worrying about her own appearance.

From scrutinising both characters' intersectionality, many similarities and

differences between the two and their situation can be observed and pinpointed. For
instance, we perceive that both characters are against the idea of an arranged
marriage. In the case of Elizabeth, she assumes that if there is no tie of love and
respect between the two sides of the marriage, then this marriage will not be accepted
by her as seen in the novel. In the case if Bridget Jones, she tries to avoid the implicit
attempts from her mother to make her meet and potentially marry Mark Darcy for his
wealth due to him being a rude person (Fielding, 126), which disallowed her to make
further movements with him since she was already was trying to forget a past
relationship of hers. Moreover, both characters face inner struggles regarding their
situation. As established before, Elizabeth gets overwhelmed with certain anxiety for
her personal opinions about the institution of marriage and Bridget gets negative
emotions herself by overthinking about her own appearance and about her constant
nutrition program. On the opposite, the two main characters differ in their family
roles. When Lydia's elopement occurs, we observe that Elizabeth took the upper hand
in attempting to fix the situation so as to not damage the family reputation, however
she remains static because her father asks her not to worry about her sister. On the
other hand, Bridget Jones is more uncaring when it comes to her family situation and
she does not have the upper hand against her mother which functions as a pressure
that controls Bridget and commands her to change (March). All in all, it is deducted
that the nature of these struggles plays a pivotal role in showcasing the overlapping

22
features of hardships and social inequality between the two characters, despite the
different spatio-temporal circumstances.

2. The Womanist Spirituality of Elizabeth and Bridget's Personalities

Elizabeth Brent can be described to have criteria of being holistic, visionary and
personal. However, she is likely not to be pragmatic. Although the novel does not
involve religion to a large extent in its context, the reader experiences some hints of
religious beliefs from the characters (Boa). In Pride and Prejudice, the main character
“embodies the Anglican aim to live in harmony with God and man and thus secures
happiness in the World” (Toal,25), meaning that Elizabeth has shown and expressed
opinions from religious origins. For example, when she gives her point of view about
the marriage of Lydia and Wickham, she states “But how little of permanent
happiness could belong to a couple who were only brought together because their
passions were stronger than their virtue” (Austen,217). This indicates that Elizabeth
believes in the necessity of doing the virtuous action in order to achieve permanent
happiness. And if virtue was defeated by passion when taking action, people will be
held accountable for their decisions, which is one vital value of the Anglican church
(Tomlin,39). Hence, it is observed that Elizabeth has her own special relationship
with God that is shown in the novel in implicit messages. Moving on, Elizabeth
experiences a personal journey of herself in which she overcomes her prejudice. At
the beginning of the novel, we perceive Elizabeth and her family as perceiving Mr,
Darcy as a dislikeable man where the author says “His character was decided. He was
the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world, and everybody hoped that he would
never come there again” (Austen,6). In this excerpt the reader understands that the
first impression of that male was enough to engrave opinions of the person himself
on the minds of Elizabeth and her family. By the end of the story, Elizabeth manages
to beat her own judgemental behaviour and she changes her opinion about Darcy,
which results in both of them strengthening their love bond (Susilo,8). This can be
tied to a Womanism personal spiritual where the woman has an inner journey of her
own that ends in an epiphany. Additionally, Elizabeth's perception of Wickham is one
of the stories central points. At the beginning of the novel, tha main heroine portrays

23
Wickham as "far beyond them all in person, countenance, air and walk" (53),
implying the superiority of that man compared to other men, including Mr Darcy.
Nevertheless, Elizabeth perceives a scene that completely changes where she reads
her sister's letter at the end of novel that suggests that Wickham made Lydia ask her
sister to provide her some money since they have enough to "live upon without some
help" (271). The letter signifies the nature of Wickham as an antagonist who tries to
take advantage of his newly married sister-in-law, which results in Elizabeth losing
her respect for him (Austen,272), altering her whole point of view about a man whom
she fancied at the beginning of the story and showcasing a visionary aspect of
womanist spirituality. On the other hand, Elizabeth is shown not to be suitable for
acquiring spiritual pragmatism. Throughout the book, we observe several emphases
on the fact that Elizabeth does not want to have a marriage based on financial stability
and social survival, but she desires a marriage that is based on love and respect
between the two parties, this contradicts the notion of pragmatism. A character from
the novel that is more opt for such a criterion is Charlotte, because “While Elizabeth’s
conscious mind wants to promote a kind of thinking that is not “determined” to marry
“any” man, a thought process that clearly differs from Charlotte’s practical thinking”
(Coniam), Which further reinforces the unfitness of Elizabeth for such a
characteristic.

As for Bridget Jones, the 30 years old female has her own holistic scepticism and
her own personal and visional spiritual experience. And like Elizabeth, she does seem
not to be a pragmatic person. In Bridget Jones Diary, she is observed to be questioning
the existence of a god in her world where she says "If there is a God, I would like to
humbly ask Him" (Fielding,67). This showcases the agnosticism of Bridget Jones
towards religious beliefs where she does not rely on spiritual faith in her everyday
life. Moreover, the novel displays her spiritual experience in the way she attempts to
improve herself. “Bridget's diary reveals the external pressure she feels to be better
than she is, pressure that exists without reference to her own qualities and
qualifications-improvement for its own sake” (Marsh). In other words, the novel can
be regarded as a journey of the characters seeking self-development. However, by the
end of the novel, the reader gets to observe that “Still, her more objective attitude

24
about other kinds of self-improvement demonstrates that Bridget is, more or less,
happy as she is”, which can be interpreted as the character's revelation about her
current self and how improvement is not considered a necessity for her. Bridget's
point of view of being a "singleton" appears in her diary. In a particular scene, a
character named Woney asks her about why she isn't married yet, which Bridget
thought a suitable answer would be "Because I don't want to end up like you, you fat,
boring, Sloaney milch cow, was what I should have said"(Fielding, 26). This signifies
the special perception of Bridget towards her being single at the age of thirty and how
she has her own personal reasons that made her not engage in it yet. Also, Fielding
claimed that it is a reflection of a representation issue in mid-nineties where single
women were portrayed as "hadn't caught up with reality", meaning that the author
constructed the character to have a nonconformist point of view about the marriage
in a way that does not make her an outcast socially outdated with her own rational
reasons. Furthermore, the character is shown to lack practical life choices. Bridget
got involved in a relationship with her boss Daniel Cleaver in what can be called an
"ill-considered affair" with a person who is "Gorgeous». And while the character can
be considered as charming, his personality is not much appealing and the relationship
ends with him cheating on Bridget which later "identifies (him) as wicked and
dissolute". This establishes the impractical nature of Bridget in her way of controlling
her love choices that lacks the true judgemental criteria that a woman should pick her
life partner based on which cannot be considered as pragmatic.

From this set of womanist spirituality analysis, we discern many differences and
similarities between the two characters. First of all, both characters shared similar
personal experiences that ended in an epiphany. Elizabeth's epiphany was her
overcoming her prejudices about Mr. Darcy and Bridget Jones' one was her
overcoming her dissatisfaction about her own body. Vision-wise, both characters
have their own opinions about particular aspects of the story that reflect their
personality and their future consideration. Elizabeth managed to change her
viewpoint about Wickham and refused Lydia's proposal to give them money
(Austen,272) so as to not let them take advantage of her and her own marriage.
Bridget, likewise has her personality reflected in her opinion about marriage where

25
she does not consider her age as a factor that makes it too late for her to be married,
which keeps her visionary about a possible future where she does find someone
suitable to be her husband. And while, this perception is not a universal one that cares
for the well-being of all humanity, it can be considered as a trait for an everyday
visionary that cares and focuses on the self. In addition, both characters are observed
to be unpragmatic. Elizabeth is a protagonist who believes in abstract standards such
as love and respect to be the foundation of a good marriage and not practical elements
such as wealth and future stability. On the other hand, Bridget Jones got into a
relationship with Daniel that is merely based on his looks and ended up being cheated
on by him. However, the characters differ on their holistic spirituality. Elizabeth is
seen as an Anglican woman who implicitly believes in many religious standards as
seen before. On the opposite, Bridget Jones is shown as someone who is ignorant
about religion and that even suspects the existence of a god, which can be explained
as a cultural reflection of the religious decline in the world (Inglehart). Therefore, it
can be established that Elizabeth is more befitting for spiritual womanism for her
holistic, visionary and personal experience and Bridget Jones is less apt for that
quality since she resembles only two main features of the spirituality in her personal
and visionary experience.

3. The Reception of Elizabeth and Bridget

Elizabeth can be served as an example for the early calls of equality of the late
eighteenth century. The protagonist is an illustration of the early independent women
where "Disinherited of her father’s property, Elizabeth is not financially independent,
and in fact depends upon an advantageous marriage for her future survival. Yet
throughout the novel, she asserts an intellectual and moral independence". Hence, this
indicates the character's Womanist struggle and intersectionality that was reflected
on people's thought in the way "The rise of the novel has historically been linked to
the rise of the middle class in England from the eighteenth century onwards... (and
middle-class women in particular)"(Aschkens). Which further strengthens the novel's
Womanist standards of struggles that were not properly addressed by the time of the
novel's publication. Furthermore, Elizabeth, and due to her position as a female

26
protagonist at that time, has been referred to and considered "by millions of readers
to be one of the most "delightful" heroines in fiction. And even the author herself
found her main character to be "as delightful a creature as ever" (Jasna). Hence, it can
be tied to the Womanist aspects of leadership where a woman has the ability to be a
leader.

Bridget Jones has been referred to as a "cultural fixture" because of her

unremarkable traits. The character was criticised for not being feminist enough and
for focusing excessively on platonic characters such as finding the right man and
maintaining a good diet. Despite that, Carty Williams, who is a black author, said
"Bridget Jones’ Diary is definitely the first place where I understood that women
didn’t have to be perfect” and this would later be the motive for her to write inspired
stories based on her own race. From a womanist point of view, this strengthens the
foundation of womanism where the woman has to "appreciate herself, her culture,
her womanly attitudes, and emotions" (Belalli). The character or Bridget Jones
became a phenomenon (Wilkoñ) where the novel's iconic style of writing played a
major role in elevating the position of the story as a whole. The reader of the story
feels like " The narration is conveyed in such a way that readers feel superior to the
character but also perceive her problems as their own"(24), which is an indication of
the novel being referential. Furthermore, “Bridget is groping through the
complexities of dealing with relationships in a morass of shifting roles and a
bombardment of idealized images of modern womanhood. It seems she is not the only
one who's confused” (Whelean,26). From a womanist perspective, this symbolizes
the character's realistic representation of intersectionality where Bridget's character
depicts the confusion of women about many standards that society follows in
conformity and that need to be readdressed. In other words, the novel laid foundation
for shedding light on a special kind of womanist experience as a thirty years old single
woman. Still, other critics had negative opinions about the character where they
claimed that Fielding managed to create a bad contemporary representation of a
British woman, that is “self-concerned & weight - obsessed needy woman”. Hence,
it can be observed that readers approached the character of Bridget Jones from many
paths.

27
 Between the two opinions, we notice that both books were peculiar pieces of literature
in their contemporary history. Elizabeth's journey of overcoming her many issues has been
interpreted as an inspiration for a social class change in the eighteenth century, and Bridget
Jones embrace of her imperfection has been regarded as a call for self-acceptance of many
conventionally detested traits. Also, both characters are considered as contemporary
heroines in their own settings. Elizabeth was a majorly appreciated protagonist due to her
nature as a female character in a patriarchal society and her overcoming of many
challenges and, likewise, Bridget Jones was appreciated for being a mid-90 thirty years
old protagonist with too many imperfections and struggles that reflect the nineties British
woman. All this shows, from a womanist perspective, the books' success of transmitting
several womanist characteristics into the minds of their readers to be inspired by both
characters in two different publishing times and in two different settings.

In conclusion, this chapter dealt with the Womanist intersectionality and spirituality of
both novels' main characters and talked about some reception of the books and the
protagonists particularly. It discussed the struggle that Elizabeth faced with Lydia's
elopement and Bridget's issue with her weight and addiction that affected her ideas about
her appearance. Furthermore, it delved into four characteristics of womanist spirituality
where it was deduced that Elizabeth is mainly holistic, visionary and persona, although
being not pragmatic, while Bridget Jones should be considered as both personal and
visionary. Then, it analysed some reception from the times of the publication of both
novels where the characters’ impact on their readers' community was observed and
pinpointed in the manner they tackled and showcased many womanist standards, such as
the journey of both characters into womanhood and their role as womanist leaders who
defy and stand against the social standards of their historical context.

28
Conclusion
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and Helen Fielding’s Bridget Jones's Diary, though
separated by centuries and distinct cultural contexts, have provided us with a rich tapestry
of insights into women's experiences and their ongoing struggle for independence and
authenticity.

In the culmination of this comparative analysis, we have explored the intricacies of

two iconic literary works, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and Bridget Jones's Diary
by Helen Fielding, to unveil the feminist and the womanist perspectives they offer on
gender roles and societal expectations.

In the first chapter, using the feminist theory, we have answered the research question
which was the desire to examine how the female protagonists in Pride and Prejudice and
Bridget Jones's Diary challenge conventional gender roles and societal expectations, and
shed light on the complex portrayal of women, their agency, and how they both challenge
the societal expectations placed on them. Through the core concepts of feminism,
patriarchy, autonomy, otherness, gender equality and oppression both novels can be seen
as challenging traditional gender roles and expectations, with female characters who are
independent, intelligent, and capable of making their own choices.

In the second chapter, the term intersectionality was used to shed light on both main
characters, where Elizabeth was perceived as being a victim of social standards that could
harm her family’s state and Bridget was faced with obstacles regarding her appearance
and her mother’s authority. Moreover, Elizabeth shared the spiritual aspects of being
holistic, visionary and personal while Bridget was only visionary and personal.

Finally, the reception of both characters was put into consideration, where Elizabeth
has been met with delighted reaction from her readers for her role as a female heroine
and Bridget Jones represented the unfiltered thirty years old single woman of the mid-
nineties.

To conclude, this thesis comes to an end, after having meticulously gathered all the
essential information and arguments. Through a juxtaposition of two distinct
perspectives, this research highlighted the resilience and agency of these two emblematic
protagonists.

29
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