Pride and Prejudice

Introduction

Jane Austen's novel, Pride and Prejudice presents five married couples. No two are alike. From the pure love which was experienced through Elizabeth and Darcy. To the love and attraction shared by Jane and Bingley. The convenience of marriage was portrayed through Charlotte and Mr Collins while Lydia and Wickham's marriage was based on their desire, attractions and financial status (Auerback, pp. 56-78). Mr and Mrs Bennet's marriage was for their necessity. Austen reveals many messages through her characters on her major theme, being marriage.

Discussion

Elizabeth and Darcy share common interests that help reflect their love and marriage. During Elizabeth's stay in Pemberly while Jane is ill, Austen reveals to the readers, that Elizabeth and Darcy share a common interest. For example, Miss Bingley states that 'Miss Eliza Bennet is a great reader' p34. While in a conversation between Darcy and Miss Bingley, it is stated, 'What a delightful library you have at Pemberly,' p34. This illustrates to the readers that the two share the same interest of reading. Having the interest reading portrayed to the readers as an interest, reveals that Elizabeth and Darcy may be suitable match for one another. It clearly shows how common interests can increase the chance of marriage as it makes the bond for one another stronger (Auerback, pp. 56-78). Thereby demonstrating that the love between Elizabeth and Darcy reflects on their interest shared by each other.

The marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy was also pure love for one another. Though this is not established until the end of the novel. Darcy's love for Elizabeth is expressed from his heart. Austen illustrates this when he states to Elizabeth, 'You must allow me to tell you I admire and love you,' p157. Austen portrays Darcy's character as being very proud, so they way he expresses his love for Elizabeth seems pure and genuine. A proud man would find hard to express such feelings in that manner. Thus it proves his love for Elizabeth is clear. Elizabeth also shows her love towards Darcy (Auerback, pp. 56-78). Mr Bennet calls Elizabeth into the library after his proposal. In a conversation between the two Elizabeth states, 'I do like him, I love him.' P303. She is aware that her feelings towards Darcy haven't always been this positive, but she believes that he is able to make her happy. Elizabeth believes happiness is the first sign to a good marriage. Therefore, this reflects Elizabeth and Darcy marry for love.

The marriage of Jane and Bingley was one for physical attractions and love. This is portrayed to the readers during the early stages of the novel. For example, Bingley states at the ball, 'she is the most beautiful creature I ever beheld!' p13. This clearly illustrates his attraction towards Jane. Bingley's love for Jane is strengthened by her beauty. The love between them is shared equally. Jane's idea of marriage is to find someone who loves her and respects her as much as she does him. Jane married Bingley for ...