Chapter 17

Chapter 17

Detailed Summary

• Elizabeth visits Meryton with Jane and encounters Wickham again.

• The conversation further highlights Wickham’s charm and Darcy’s perceived harshness.

• Jane worries about Bingley’s attention shifting toward Miss King at a local ball.

• Elizabeth’s prejudice against Darcy grows as she absorbs Wickham’s narrative uncritically.

• The chapter reinforces the theme of misunderstanding and social influence on judgment.

Character Development

Elizabeth Bennet

• Displays curiosity, social awareness, and susceptibility to flattering accounts.

• Begins to form strong negative opinions of Darcy based on second-hand information.

Jane Bennet

• Gentle, forgiving, and focused on Bingley, showing her steadfastness in affection.

Mr. Wickham

• His charisma and eloquence strengthen Elizabeth’s initial prejudice.

Writing Techniques

• Free Indirect Discourse: Shows Elizabeth’s internalisation of Wickham’s story.

• Irony: Elizabeth’s trust in Wickham contrasts with the reader’s knowledge that Darcy is misunderstood.

• Foreshadowing: Hints at future revelation of Wickham’s duplicity.

Themes

Prejudice

• Elizabeth’s misjudgment of Darcy is intensified.

Quotes:

• “He is the most agreeable young man I ever saw.”

  • Shows superficial charm influencing opinion.

• “I am sorry for him, but I cannot pity Mr. Darcy.”

  • Highlights emotional bias.

• “Elizabeth listened with lively interest.”

  • Indicates readiness to accept flattering interpretations.

Social Class and Etiquette

• Local balls and assemblies enforce expectations and gossip as social currency.

Quotes:

• “The officers were much admired and sought after.”

  • Appearance and rank define social desirability.

• “Elizabeth’s easy manners were noticed.”

  • Authentic behaviour contrasts with affected social etiquette.

• “Jane’s kindness impressed everyone.”

  • Virtue and refinement transcend mere social skill.