Marriage Proposals in Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice Essay

Marriage Proposals in Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice Romance Versus Security. It is universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. These are the words of Jane Austen, and like many people of her time, she believed very much in the importance of finding a wealthy husband for young women. Jane Austens novel reflects the importance of marriage to many people around 1775. Although events such as the industrial revolution were sweeping the country, these were ignored and the life of a few middle class families in a country village were depicted. Marriage at this time was a way of securing a happy livelihood and relative†¦show more content†¦Bennet and she sees it as imperative that her daughters are married off. In Pride and Prejudice Elizabeth Bennet receives two proposals of marriage the first from her cousin the bumbling Mr. Collins. The Bennet family had received a letter prior to his arrival; the impression put across is that Mr. Collins is long winded and all over a bit of a fool. This letter prepares the family and the reader for the arrival of a pompous egotist. Mrs. Bennet is excited about his arrival, as it is clear he is passing on marital business, causing great interest among the sisters and above all Mrs. Bennet. At the Netherfield ball he makes a complete show of himself as he lacks decorum and etiquette. His inability to dance is a cause of amusement to the characters and the reader. The first two dances, however, brought a return of distress; solemn, apologising instead of intending. He unwittingly introduces himself to Darcy and recieves a cold reception Whilst joining in the festivities, it becomes clear that Collins greatly admires Lady Catherine De Bourgh, his groveling adorations add to his foolery. He continues to examine every inch of the house comparing it directly to Rosings, in a very rude manner. Just as Collins tedious absurdness reaches its height, Elizabeth begins to fall for Wickhams charms and stories of hate against Darcy and Collins proposalShow MoreRelatedPride and Prejudice: Exploring the Chasm Between Love and Marriage in Georgian England1675 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"Pride and Prejudice†, is a novel which explores the huge chasm between love and marriage in Georgian England. Jane Austen’s presentation of passion and matrimony reiterates the fact that marriage is a â€Å"business arrangement†. Austen uses irony to make fun of polite society in this satire and Austen also emphasizes the point that social hierarchy dictates whom you can marry. 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Austen claims that a single man â€Å"must be in want of a wife.† Hence, the social stature and wealth of men were of principal importance for women. Austen, however, hints that the opposite may prove