P & P ch.21-1

Stephen Simmons
AP English 11/Mr. George
11/5/09
P&P

"It was a long time before she became at all reconciled to the idea of so unsuitable a match...Charlotte's opinion of matrimony was not exactly like her own, but she could not have supposed it possible that when called into action, she would have sacrificed every better feeling to worldly advantage"(96).

The topic of marriage or more specific, the repercussions of marriage are arisen from the engagement of Collins and Charlotte. Based on the three types of marriage discussed in class, mercenary marriage, prudent marriage, and love marriage, the engagement and future marriage of Collins and Charlotte seem not to fit any of the criteria of those categories. Instead their situation uncovers a new type of marriage, one that involves little affection toward one another and no itching desire for money or a higher rank in the class system. Basically, their engagement is supported under false pretenses. By repercussions of marriage i am talking about the rippling effect that it has on those in the surrounding atmosphere. This marriage forces Elizabeth to realize that even Charlotte, her best friend, may find happiness where nobody else can. Elizabeth further realizes that people do not always see things similarly to herself. Furthermore, it is possible to see the good in someone if nobody else does, just as Jane does.

"Two inferences, however, were plainly deduced from the whole; one that Elizabeth was the real cause of all the mischief; and the other, that she herself had been barbarously used by them all; and on these two points she principally dwelt during the rest of the day"(98)

It is no mystery that Elizabeth is not Mrs. Bennet's biggest fan, however here we see the true disliking of Elizabeth emerge. According to the mother of the household Elizabeth is to blame for all of the mischief and mishap that goes on around Mrs. Bennet, who becomes the victim of it all. This portrays the lack of intelligence or manners that are harbored in Mrs. Bennet, as well as illuminates her outlandish style of going about life. It is kind of ironic that both Elizabeth and Mrs. Bennet view one another as an embarrassment or disruption.