P&P Study Guide

Ch 1

1. The first sentence of this novel is considered by critics to be one of the most revealing first lines in English literature. What does this one sentence tell the reader about the overall theme of the story? This shows that people of this society place a lot of importance upon wealth and marriage.

2. Who is Mr. Bingley? Why does Mrs. Bennet want her husband to visit Mr. Bingley?Mr. Bingley is a young man of great fortune. Mrs. Bennet wants her husband to visit so that he can convince Bingley to come to their estate and meet the girls and maybe even marry one.

3. According to Mrs. Bennet, what qualities do Jane and Lydia possess which make them better candidates for marriage than Lizzy? Why is Lizzy Mr. Bennet's favorite daughter?Jane had beauty, while Lydia has a humorous personality. Lizzy is Mr. Bennett's favorite daughter because of her wit and quickness.

4. Compare the personalities of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet. In what ways is Austen utilizing their characters to create satire?It shows them as complete opposites. Mr. Bingley uses sarcasm to convey his and Austen's ideas while Mrs. Bennet uses overreaction to be a symbolic hyperbole of society. Used in conjunction, the conflict and jesting seen in their marriage can be applied liberally to Austen's view of the society she is writing about.

Ch 2

1. What is revealed about Kitty, Mary, and Lydia Bennet in this chapter?The characters are developed here. Kitty is seen to be ill of sorts, or simply annoying as seen by her coughing fits. Mary becomes known as an intellectual due to her constant thinking, and Lydia appears to be the mother's favorite daughter.

Ch 31. What do the Bennet women learn about Mr. Bingley from Mrs. Lucas? What dynamic of

Victorian society is revealed in this exchange?The Bennet women learn that Mr. Bingley is a handsome and agreeable man, as well as the fact that he will attend the next ball that the Bennets attend. The dynamic of Victorian society shown here and throughout the novel is the gauge of men's character according to their income and fortune.

2. Briefly describe Mr. Darcy. What do you think makes him draw "the most attention of the room"?

Mr. Darcy is noted to be tall and quite fine-looking and extremely handsome. I believe that what attract the attention for him are both his appearance and his great wealth that is later noted.

3. Why do the people at the assembly come to dislike Mr. Darcy? What aspects of his character is Austen developing here?The people come to dislike Darcy because of his manners; they took a turn for the worse late into the night when everyone discovered his proud attitude was incompatible with the company.

4. Describe Elizabeth's reaction when she overhears Mr. Darcy insult her by telling Mr. Bingley that "she is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me." What aspect of her character is Austen developing?She becomes angry with Darcy, feeling that she is more than simply tolerable; here Austen is showing that despite her character's wishes she is not immune to anger or pride.

 5. Explain the developing dynamic between Jane and Bingley.

The reader is led to believe that the two are amicably in love with one another; this is shown in both his action of dancing with her more than once as well as Jane's feelings of love being openly told to the reader.

Ch 41. What does Elizabeth think of Mr. Bingley's sisters? Why does she not share her opinion

with Jane?Elizabeth thinks that Bingley's sisters are not only beautiful, but also guilty of pride and conceit for themselves. She does not share her opinions with Jane because she feels that her sister could not acknowledge a flaw in anyone.

2. Briefly describe the friendship between Darcy and Bingley.Darcy and Bingley are known to be the greatest of companions; despite their opposition in many matters of preference, they are quite loyal to one another. Bingley is the only person that Darcy speaks openly to; because of this the character development seen within their scenes is key.

Ch 5

1. Briefly identify Charlotte Lucas. What facet of society does she represent?Charlotte Lucas is the daughter of the Bennet's neighbors, the Lucas's (go figure); her character is quite different form every other female in the novel thus far - she behaves totally within the accepted norms in society.

2. What reasons does Charlotte give for her opinion that Mr. Darcy has a "right to be proud"?She says that Darcy has a reason to be proud in that he comes from a respectable family and has a great fortune. Therefore since he is more successful, he is then able to be proud.

3. How, according to Mary, can a person be "proud without being vain"? (Pg. 13) In what ways is Austen developing Mary's character here?She said that pride is our own views of ourselves, and our self-worth, while vanity is the attention paid to what other have said about you. This reveals that her character is an observer and has great insights into the world around her.

Ch 6

1. What is Charlotte saying about marriage in this passage: "it is better to know as little as possible of the defects of the person with whom you are to pass your life"? (Pg. 14) What does this reveal regarding her character?Her view marriage is different that many other s in the novel thus far, she sees it as a game of luck. It would be better to marry based solely on the advantages of such, and that it is better not to know ones spouse too well, lest you do not actually like them. She represents the idea woman of the society - one that marries solely for the profit of it, while not caring much for personal accomplishment. 

2. Why does Elizabeth disagree with Charlotte's assessment of marriage?She feels that marriage should be based on romance and deeply felt love between two people.

 3. How does Miss Bingley try to discourage Darcy's interest in Elizabeth? Why?

She begins to mock the very nature of marriage, and attempts to scare Darcy in to thinking that he will be related to and forced to interact with the foolish bent family. She does this because she wants him for herself.

Ch 7

1. Explain the situation regarding the entailment on the Bennet estate.

If Mr. Bennet dies then the estate, which is noted at 2000 pounds a year would be given to a male heir, and without one such as a husband, then the girls would be given nothing.

2. Who is Mrs. Phillips? Why do Lydia and Catherine enjoy visiting her?  

Mrs. Phillips is Mrs. Bennet's sister, and the girls enjoy spending time with her because of the fact that the militia men are staying close to her home.

3. In what way does Mrs. Bennett manipulate Jane regarding her visit to Bingley?

She manipulates Jane in that by convincing her to go to the Bingley estate while knowing that it will later rain, her stay will have to be prolonged - giving Jane a longer period of time to possibly gain Bingley's affection.

  Ch 81. In what way is Austen portraying Miss Bingley's character?

Austen is portraying her character thus far as a manipulative, but not evil character. Though her actions are usually underhanded they are always for the benefit of her daughters.

 

2. What is Mr. Darcy's definition of an "accomplished woman"? (Pg. 26) 

Mr. Darcy defines an accomplished woman as one that has an understanding of music, singing, drawing, dancing, and modern language. Also, she must have a certain way of walking, speaking, and expressing herself. And. most importantly, she must extensively read.

3. What is ironic about the following passage from this chapter?"Eliza Bennet," said Miss Bingley, when the door was closed on her, "is one of those young ladies who seek to recommend themselves to the other sex, by undervaluing their own..." "Undoubtedly," replied Darcy..."there is meanness in all the arts which ladies sometimes condescend to employ for captivation." (Pg. 27)

 The irony seen here is that though Elizabeth has spoken ill of women in what is allegedly an attempt to make herself appear better, this is exactly what miss Bingley is doing, putting down Lizzy to make herself appear better to Darcy. And he does take note of the irony.

  Ch 9

1. How does Mrs. Bennet embarrass Elizabeth when she comes to Netherfield to visit Jane? Explain the dynamic between them.She insults Darcy's pride, and compares Jane's looks to the daughter s of the Lucas's without end. Such is seen to show that her mother is a burden upon Lizzy's character and that in truth her family is indeed from a lower, more vulgar class.

 2. Briefly describe Lydia. What does she boldly ask Mr. Bingley before she leaves for

home? What does she represent?Lydia is the most outgoing of the sisters, and she is the most impulsive. She asks him to hold a ball at Nether field park, this is seen to make her represent the unbridled freedom that in that society no woman had dared to even attempt to achieve.

Ch 10 

1. How does the following statement by Darcy offend his friend Bingley?"To yield without conviction is no compliment to the understanding of either." (Pg. 33)

 This offends him because he is implying that Bingley is weak and usable by others to their own ends.

 2. What danger is Darcy worrying about in the passage below? What dynamic within his

character does it reveal?"Darcy had never been so bewitched by any woman as he was by her. He really believed, that were it not for the Inferiority of her connections, he should be in some danger." (Pg. 35)

 

The danger seen here is that he is either her equal in presence or that he is in love with her. This allows the reader to realize that he allows prejudices and how others view him to rule his life, because how should he marry one as low as her?

3. How does Mrs. Hurst try to offend Elizabeth? Is she successful?Mrs. Hurst tries to offend Elizabeth by excluding her from a walk with Darcy and another party by literally forcing Darcy away from her by dragging him by the arm. Though she is not successful because Elizabeth simply remarks a bit and leaves the group - victorious.

Ch 11

1. What does Miss Bingley do to get Darcy's attention?Miss Bingley tries to fool Darcy into thinking she reads a lot more, as well as asking Elizabeth to walk about the room with her; hoping to show that her gait is more refined that Lizzy's.

2. List the faults Mr. Darcy admits to having. What fault in character does he NOT admit to?Mr. Darcy admits to having a quick temper and of holding grudges. Though he does not admit to being prideful as he is.

3. Darcy says to Elizabeth, "There is, I believe, in every disposition a tendency to some particular evil, a natural defect, which not even the best education can overcome." (39) What natural defect does he find in Elizabeth's character?He finds that she is the victim of coming form a low-standing family in society.

Ch 12

1. Why is Mr. Darcy glad Elizabeth and Jane are going home?Mr. Darcy is glad the sisters are going home because the more time he spends with Lizzy the more attracted to her he becomes a frightening prospect for him.

Ch 13

1. Briefly describe Mr. Collins. Why does Elizabeth think Mr. Collins "must be an oddity"? Why has he come to the Bennett house?Mr. Collins is a short man who thinks he is refined simply because of his connection Lady Catherine. She says this because of the arrogance present in his letters; he has come to the house to find a wife.

2. In what sense can Mr. Collins be considered a comical character? What do you think Austen is saying about the rules of social behavior by including Collins in this story? He is comical in that he is an awkward character; it is a great contrast with the society in general that abides by so many rules to see a man that cannot follow those rules because

of his own stupidity. I believe that Austen is saying that by following the rules too much as Collins does, one can appear just as strange if not more so than one that cares not for the rules.

Ch 14

1. Who is Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and how does Mr. Collins try to keep her happy? Lady Catherine is a wealthy patroness of Mr. Collins. He attempts to make her happy by both flattering her constantly as well as being her lackey - he follows all her advice including searching for a wife even when he may not want one.

2. Briefly describe Miss de Bourgh. Miss de Bourgh is Lady Catherine's daughter, and she is constantly ill.

3. What does each member of the Bennet family think of Mr. Collins? Mr. Bennet and Elizabeth thinks that Collins is an absurd man that must be ignored or worse. The other girls either are bored with him because of his propriety, or are enthralled by his appearance or connections, as Mrs. Bennet is.

Ch 15

1. Why does Mr. Collins decide to pursue Elizabeth for his wife, instead of Jane? What dynamic of Victorian society is Austen criticizing here? He decides to pursue Elizabeth only after Mrs. Bennet tells him that Jane may be expecting to be engaged by another. Austen is criticizing the fact that marriages are not based on love, aw well as the fact that such a false love is easily transferable to others so long as the rewards for such are equal.

2. Briefly describe Mr. Wickham. What dynamic seems to exist between Wickham and Darcy?Mr. Wickham is a charismatic foot soldier who is able to capitvate4 ever woman he meets. The relationship between the two seems stressed by their pasts.

3. What indications are there in this chapter that Elizabeth is interested in Mr. Darcy? The indications here are that she is paying enough attention to Darcy to notice the changes in his attitude when the group met Wickham, something no one else noticed. This special attention she is giving him is the only indicator.

CH16

1. Why do you think Wickham feels free to talk to Elizabeth about his problems with Darcy? I believe that Wickham is intentionally trying to change Elizabeth's position about by Darcy by soiling his good name and making her think him more detestable than likable.

Also, since he knows that Darcy has never spoken of him, he is able to speak freely knowing that Lizzy knows not if he is trustworthy or not.

2. In what ways does Wickham think Darcy is "disgracing the memory of his father"? (Pg. 53) What reason does Wickham give for Darcy's refusal to honor his father's will? He feels that Darcy is doing this by not upholding his father's will and giving Wickham his share of the estate / inheritance. He feels that Darcy did this out of jealousy and spite.

3. List the ways Darcy's pride is a positive character trait. He has both filial and family pride in that he not only helps those in need with his immense wealth, but also binds him closely to his sister. Thus he is a good citizen a brother because of it.

4. How does Wickham explain Darcy's friendship with Bingley? He notes it is a superficial friendship based on looks, money, and whatever Darcy says because of his higher social status and wealth.

5. What is the connection between Darcy and Lady Catherine de Bourgh? What interesting information does Elizabeth learn about Lady Catherine's daughter, Miss de Bourgh? Catherine is Darcy's aunt (she ancient) she learns that it would be very likely in the future if Miss de Bourgh were to marry Darcy if he does not find a wife soon.

6. What does the following conversation between Elizabeth and Wickham suggest to the reader about Wickham's true feelings on meeting Darcy again?

"I wonder,' said he, ..."whether he is likely to be in this country much longer." "I do not at all know; but I heard nothing of his going away .... I hope your plans ... will not be affected by his being in the neighborhood." "Oh! No-it is not for me to be driven away by Mr. Darcy." (Pg. 53)

This shows his fear and anticipation of a conflict with Darcy - by inquiring to the duration of his stay he may be attempting to discern how long he will have to remain hidden. Yet at the same time he may be wanting said conflict with Darcy as seen by the last line.

CH17

1. Why does Jane try to defend Mr. Darcy after Elizabeth tells her about Wickham's accusations? She cannot believe him, and instead thinks they both have the wrong impression of one another

2. How does Elizabeth's conversation with Mr. Collins about the Netherfield ball backfire? By attempting to persuade him not to attend the ball, she is instead cajoled into dancing with him a couple times.

3. What does Elizabeth say when her mother hints to her that Collins may be planning to ask for her hand in marriage?Rather than reacting, she instead ignores her mother so as not to begin a conflict over her eventual refusal.

CH18

1. Why is Wickham not at the Netherfield ball? He is said to be indisposed with business maters, yet Lizzy thinks that he is not there to avoid Darcy.

2. How does Elizabeth insult Darcy while they are dancing? She injures his pride by saying that they are both alike in that they are antisocial and quiet unless they truly have something to say.

3. Why might Darcy be upset by the possibility that Bingley and Jane are falling in love? What is Austen revealing regarding this character? Darcy feels that she has neither any defining qualities nor any good social connections plus her sisters and mother are quite annoying. Austen I revealing how Darcy's character relies heavily upon society and appearance rather than substance to define himself.

4. What is the nature of the prejudice Elizabeth accuses Darcy of in the following passage? "I remember hearing you once say, Mr. Darcy, that you hardly ever forgave, that your resentment once created was unappeasable. You are very cautious, I suppose as to its being created." "I am," said he, with a firm voice. "And never allow yourself to be blinded by prejudice?" (Pg. 64) She is speaking of Wickham

5. Why does Elizabeth not believe Miss Bingley when she tries to defend Darcy's actions toward Wickham?Lizzy does not believe her because she too is in love with Darcy and thus can only see the good in him, thus skewing her POV.

6. How do Mrs. Bennet, Mary, and Mr. Collins all succeed in embarrassing Elizabeth at the ball?Together they all make the night truly horrible. Mary's failure at singing ends in embarrassment, Collin's failed introduction of himself to Darcy has made Darcy angry, and Mrs. Bennet embarrassed Jane by preemptively spoke of their marriage.

CH19

1. Why does Mr. Collins refuse to accept that Elizabeth does not want to marry him?He falsely assumes her modest and embarrassed at his proposal since she allegedly loves him ever so dearly.

2. List the reasons Elizabeth gives Mr. Collins for her refusal. She tells him that they could not make one another happy and that lady Catherine would disapprove.

3. List the reasons Mr. Collins believes it is unreasonable for Elizabeth to continue to refuse his offer of marriage. He feels himself above the family, she will never have another opportunity of marriage, and by accepting his proposal she will guarantee her place in society

4. Support the following statement: This story is a satire that ridicules the importance of marriage to a woman's security and happiness.Elizabeth's refusal of Collins is the proof of this statement, instead of wanting marriage to make her happy and secure she instead wants romance and love.

CH20

1. Why does Mr. Collins threaten to withdraw his offer of marriage to Elizabeth after he talks to Mrs. Bennet? He threatens to do this because if she is truly as stubborn as she appears, then she would not make a good wife after all.

2. What does Mr. Bennet do that surprises Mrs. Bennet and amuses Elizabeth? She says that if she doesn't not marry Collins she will never speak to Lizzy again.

3. Charlotte Lucas stays behind after the other ladies leave so she can listen to the conversation between Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins. Austen describes Charlotte as having "a little curiosity." (Pg. 79) What other reason do you think Charlotte may have for eavesdropping on their conversation? She may have seen the opportunity to marry Collins when he has failed with Lizzy

4. What evidence is there in this chapter that Mr. Collins has no real feelings for Elizabeth? He insults her by claiming that she will not have other offers of marriage, and that he is doing her a favor by asking her. Also he would have only asked her instead of thinking of asking Jane as he originally does.

CH21

1. At this point in the story, what does Austen tell the reader about the following characters to advance the story and add interest to the plot?

Collins and Charlotte: marry but out of necessity because she is already old and must marry. Plus she wanted to move upwards in society.   Wickham and Elizabeth: Elizabeth begins to fancy Wickham more Jane and Bingley: effectively break up due to Bingley interest in Georgiana.

2. What evidence is there that Elizabeth does not believe Miss Bingley's assertion that her brother will not return to Netherfield for the entire winter? Though she is sure that Bingley love will bring him back, until then she feels that his sister's actions are only in spite because she feels him bound to marry someone equal in status rather than a Bennet.

CH22

1. How does Charlotte justify her decision to marry Mr. Collins?She feels herself an old maid, and notes that she has always wanted to marry up in society. She feels that by marrying Collins many of her family problems will be solved.

2. How does Elizabeth respond when Charlotte tells her about her plans to marry Mr. Collins?

Though she says nothing outright, she feels that charlotte is making the worst decision of her life.

CH23

1. What does Mr. Bennet mean when he says that "it gratified him ... to discover that Charlotte Lucas, whom he had been used to think tolerably sensible, was as foolish as his wife, and more foolish than his daughter!"? (Pg. 88)He is happy to know that there may be hope for his daughters - for if he knows someone else below them they may yet have a chance to marry more smartly than others

2. Why is Jane feeling anxious? Why is Charlotte's presence offensive to Mrs. Bennet?Jane is anxious because she fears Bingley will never come back to Netherfield. Mrs. Bennet is infuriated that someday Charlotte will be her successor since she will be receiving the house when if it is lost.