Pride And Prejudice By Jane Austen - 1099 Words

The novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen was published during 19th century Victorian England. Despite the governing body being under control by a female head of state, women living in 19th century England had certain limitations set upon them in regards for their future. Pride and Prejudice highlighted the life of a typical women during this time period in that it established their primary function: to marry. Although this novel revolves around characters belonging to a higher social class, the inability of women to exercise their freedom is evident, particularly in the case of marriage. Society and many characters in this novel are not fond of the idea of love. Marriage is more of a mutual commitment based largely on financial†¦show more content†¦It was a gradual series of processes and setbacks which eventually caused both of them to fall in love. Characters such as Elizabeth and Lydia challenge the societal conception of marriage by marrying due to physical attracti on or love instead of financial gain. Marriage can be seen as a business, while men bring money to the family, women simply take out. Marriage was a definite concern for Mrs. Bennet due to two major reasons: to provide a future for her daughters and find a heir that would inherit their property as women cannot. Her views on who her daughters should marry are most explicitly expressed when she states â€Å"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.† (Volume 1. Chapter 1. 5). Mrs. Bennet description of a man with great wealth represents the latter of society’s views on marriage. There is no emotional or physical basis of marriage, as it should be done in order to preserve the familial reputation and maintain societal connections. This notion is perhaps highlighted even further while Elizabeth discovers Mr. Collins’ intentions on marrying Charlotte. Charlotte is Elizabeth’s good frien d while Mr. Collins is a clergyman andthe cousin of Mr.Bennett. Mr. Collins came to Netherfield seeking a woman for marriage but was rejected by Elizabeth. When Elizabeth finds out that Mr. Collins has decided to marry Charlotte, she is