Jane Austen s Pride And Prejudice - 1304 Words

Introduction In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen portrays themes of love, class, reputation, and marriage. From the beginning it is seen that the question of marriage is very important to the Bennet family. Upon not marrying, the girls cousin Mr. Collins will inherit Longbourn due to the absence of a male heir. This means that the family will become destitute since they won t have any support or a place to live. The only solution for them would be marriage. During this era, since women had to pay dowry, they had to find men who would marry them either for love or to have a good wife. Austen has depicted many characteristics of marriage in pride and prejudice. Intentions to marry is either due to physical attraction, love,†¦show more content†¦But over the years of his marriage with Mrs. Bennet, he realizes that the key to a happy marriage is love. Because Elizabeth does not perceive any love in her relationship with Mr. Collins, Mr. Bennet does not want Elizabeth to marry him, and says that â€Å"Your mother will never see your face if you do not marry Mr. Collins and I will never see you again if you do†(99). Collins marriage: a marriage of convenience Mr. Collins and Charlotte Lucas s marriage is based on convenience. Mr. Collins features an arrogant personality whereas Charlotte has a plain personality. Charlotte has married Mr. Collins for convenience, says that â€Å"...I am not romantic, you know; I never was. I ask only a comfortable home; and considering Mr. Collins s character, connexions, and situation in life, I am convinced that my chance of happiness with him is as fair as most people can boast on entering the marriage state†(111-112). In other words, Charlotte decides to marry Mr. Collins because he can provide a home and financial support. Initially Mr. Collins proposed to his cousin Elizabeth Bennet. But after being rejected by her, he proposed to Charlotte who accepted his proposal. Mr. Collins decides to marry because he feels that society wants him to. One of the other reasons for their marriage is Lady Catherine de Bourgh. â€Å"She had even condescended to advise him to marry as soon as he could...†(115). Wickham marriage: a marriage of physical