Litty P&P

“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”

This famous opening line sets the stage for marriage as a central theme. Austen critiques society’s view that marriage is primarily an economic arrangement, often devoid of true affection. Characters like Charlotte Lucas marry for security, while Elizabeth and Darcy ultimately represent the ideal of a marriage founded on mutual respect and love.

“You could not make me happy, and I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world who could make you so.”

Elizabeth’s refusal of Mr. Collins highlights her desire for personal happiness over societal expectations. Austen portrays Elizabeth’s choice as bold for her time, reflecting her stance on the importance of love and compatibility in marriage.

“For what do we live, but to make sport for our neighbors, and laugh at them in our turn?”

Mr. Bennet’s cynicism about social expectations illustrates the absurdity of society’s concern with reputation. Austen criticizes a society that values appearances over genuine qualities.

“Do not consider me now as an elegant female, but as a rational creature speaking the truth from her heart.”

Elizabeth’s appeal to Darcy highlights her individuality and desire to be valued for her mind, not just her appearance or status. Austen uses Elizabeth to argue for a woman’s right to speak freely and pursue personal happiness, rather than conforming to societal expectations.

“He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman's daughter; so far we are equal.”

This line, spoken by Elizabeth Bennet, highlights her belief in her worth despite the social gap between her and Darcy. Although Darcy initially hesitates to pursue Elizabeth because of her lower social status, her response to Lady Catherine de Bourgh shows her self-respect and challenges the rigid class hierarchy.

“Are the shades of Pemberley to be thus polluted?”

Lady Catherine uses this expression in an attempt to intimidate Elizabeth, underscoring her prejudice and disdain for the Bennet family. She believes that the marriage would "pollute" Darcy’s estate and status, revealing her deeply rooted class biases.

“The upstart pretensions of a young woman without family, connections, or fortune.”

Lady Catherine’s sense of entitlement reflects her belief that her status allows her to interfere in Darcy’s life. Her disdain for Elizabeth, who does not conform to these expectations, showcases her prejudice against those of a lower social rank.

“Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance.”

Charlotte Lucas’s pragmatic view of marriage reveals how social mobility and economic security often outweigh personal affection. Her marriage to Mr. Collins is a calculated choice for stability, illustrating the economic pressures on women to marry well and secure their social standing.

  “I am not romantic, you know. I never was. I ask only a comfortable home.”

Charlotte’s statement reflects her practical approach to marriage as a necessity for financial stability rather than love. Austen uses Charlotte’s situation to comment on the limited means women had for social mobility, with marriage often being the only option.

“Loss of virtue in a female is irretrievable; that one false step involves her in endless ruin.”

Mary Bennet’s moralistic observation reflects the strict expectations placed on women regarding chastity and reputation. Lydia’s behavior is seen as a “ruin” not just for herself but for her entire family, exposing how women’s reputations were tightly controlled and their “virtue” highly valued.

“In marrying your daughters, I am sure I am fulfilling the wishes of my family.”

Mr. Collins views marriage as a means of fulfilling social obligations rather than a romantic union. This highlights the idea that marriages were often arranged or pursued for social and economic advantages, demonstrating the transaction-like nature of many unions in society.

“She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me.”

This comment from Darcy at the Meryton ball establishes his initial judgment of Elizabeth. His arrogance and dismissive attitude reflect his first impression of her based on social standing and appearance, which later proves to be a misguided assessment.

“The business of her life was to get her daughters married; its solace was visiting and news.” (Chapter 1)

The Bennet sisters' future depends largely on their ability to marry well since the family estate is entailed to a male heir. This creates a sense of urgency for Mrs. Bennett to marry off her daughters, illustrating how women’s marital and economic dependency shaped their lives. Mrs. Bennet’s concerns are often viewed as  humorous, but they reflect a real social dilemma

Mrs. Bennett’s obsession with marrying off her daughters highlights how women were often seen as commodities whose primary function was to secure advantageous matches

"I have no money and no prospects” -Charlotte Lucas

Highlights the lack of financial independence available to women. In the world of Pride and Prejudice, marriage was often the only means by which a woman could secure financial stability. Without money or a marriage proposal, women like Charlotte faced a risky future, as they had few opportunities to support themselves independently. The quote reveals that for women, marriage was not just about love or companionship but often a matter of survival. Charlotte’s anxiety reflects the societal pressure that left women with limited choices: either marry or become a burden on their family. Charlotte's age is significant. Being 27 was considered "old" for a woman to be unmarried. By this point, society sees her as having passed her prime. This age-based anxiety is specific to women, reflecting how society valued youth and beauty in women more than anything else.  Her situation offers a subtle critique of 1800’s society

"His sense of her inferiority—of its being a degradation—of the family obstacles which judgment had always opposed to inclination, were dwelt on with a warmth which seemed due to the consequence he was wounding, but was very unlikely to recommend his suit." Ch 34

His pride about his high social status hampers his attempt to express his affection. As the above quote makes clear, he spends more time emphasizing her lower rank and unsuitability for marriage to him than he does complimenting her or pledging his love. Darcy must prioritize love over his sense of superiority before he is worthy of Elizabeth’s hand.