relationships in pride and prejudice :: essays research papers

Relationship in Pride and Prejudice In the novel Pride and Prejudice, written by Jane Austen, several, if not all of her characters, can confirm the belief that in order to achieve happiness one must discard their pride and in turn, replace it with self-respect accompanied by some humility. In addition, acceptance and mutual respect must replace one’s prejudice. The novel reveals four couples that live through social inconviences. The setting, although the novel does take place in many different places, is mainly broadcasted from Longbourn, somewhere in England. It is set around the Bennet family, which consists of seven members. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, and their five daughters which of whom none are yet married. At this period in time, marriage was based a great deal upon money and reputation, not so much love and trust. When a single man entered town, he was called upon only if his financial situation was above normal. Marriage was based around land, family connections, and wealth. In many minor characters of the novel, pride is a common characteristic. Mrs. Bennet, for instance, is extremely proud when it comes to her daughter’s marriages of mercenary benefits. She is so concerned that her neighbors have a high opinion of her that her own vanity will not Proposal Scenes The first proposal scene deals with Mr. Collins's proposal to Elizabeth, this is a very odd occurrence as Mr. Collins is Elizabeth's cousin and he sort of appears from nowhere and expects Elizabeth to marry him. This is what is funny about this proposal because Mr. Collins expects Elizabeth to marry him because he is a clergy man and it would be right and proper for him to marry a lady like miss Bennett.When Mr. Collins, a tall, swarthy young man of twenty-five,arrives, he heaps indiscriminate praise on everything. He compliments Mrs. Bennett on her cooking and speaks highly of everything about the girls. In every way, he appears to be a peculiar figure. Mr. Collins asks Mrs. Bennett "May I hope, madam, for your interest with your fair daughter Elizabeth, when I solicit for the honour of a private audience with her in the course of this morning?"Mrs. Bennett agrees and tries to leave the room taking Kitty with her but Elizabeth stops her and says "Dear madam, do not go. I beg you will not go. Mr. Collins must excuse me.