ES

Chapter 20

Chapter 20

Detailed Summary

  • Elizabeth’s opinion of Darcy is increasingly negative due to Wickham’s account.

  • Bingley and Jane enjoy flirtatious social interactions, deepening their mutual attraction.

  • The Bennets discuss marriage prospects, showing parental ambition and social pressures.

  • Mr. Collins observes Elizabeth with the intention of proposing, adding comic tension.

  • The chapter consolidates themes of prejudice, first impressions, and social influence while advancing multiple romantic subplots.

Character Development

Elizabeth Bennet

  • Prejudice grows as she judges Darcy based on incomplete information.

  • Shows intelligence but also the limitations of first impressions.

Jane Bennet

  • Patient, gentle, and quietly hopeful, demonstrating virtue and charm.

Mr. Bingley

  • Continues sincere, joyful courtship of Jane.

Mr. Darcy

  • Misunderstood due to reserve; beginning of internal conflict and admiration for Elizabeth.

Mr. Collins

  • His comic pursuit of Elizabeth intensifies, highlighting social absurdities.

Writing Techniques

  • Irony and Satire: Elizabeth misjudges Darcy; Collins’s behaviour is absurdly formal.

  • Foreshadowing: Hints at future confrontations between Elizabeth, Darcy, and Wickham.

  • Contrast: Genuine affection vs. social manipulation.

Themes

Prejudice

  • Wickham’s deception and Darcy’s reserve deepen Elizabeth’s misconceptions.

Quotes:

  • “Elizabeth listened with lively interest to Wickham’s story.”

    • Prejudice reinforced through charm.

  • “She could hardly be persuaded of Darcy’s generosity.”

    • Social bias limits understanding.

  • “First impressions are often deceitful.”

    • Austen signals the ongoing thematic focus.

Love and Marriage

  • Jane and Bingley’s budding romance contrasts with Elizabeth’s misjudged feelings.

Quotes:

  • “He danced with her several times.”

    • Shows natural affection.

  • “Jane’s quiet happiness was evident.”

    • Inner virtue rewarded socially.

  • “Elizabeth could not help being amused by Mr. Collins.”

    • Humor in courtship and social maneuvering.

Social Class and Etiquette

  • Social appearances and rank continue to influence perception and behaviour.

Quotes:

  • “The officers were admired and sought after.”

    • Appearance and rank dictate social attention.

  • “Elizabeth’s manners were plain but charming.”

    • Virtue and authenticity triumph over affectation.

  • “Mr. Darcy’s reserved air drew speculation.”

    • Misinterpretation arises from classed behaviour.