Disposition and Talents

"Elizabeth received her congratulations amongst the rest, and then, sick of this folly, took refuge in her own room, that she might think with freedom." (Chapter 49)

We now come to the part of the novel when the romance of Darcy and Elizabeth begins to blossom. "It was evident that she was much better aquainted with Mr Darcy than they had before any idea of; it was evident that he was very much in love with her. " (Chapter 44) I know that I commented earlier on the wholesomeness of Jane Austen, and how her plot lines do have elements of realism, but who does not like a good piece of romance? Jane Austen does romance well and though it was written nearly 200 years ago, it has elements of truth today. For example, Pride and Prejudice is about a woman who has an annoying family, a strong conscience, and love interest. So yes, I would argue, Jane Austen never goes out of style.

Alright, back from that rabbit trail.... Darcy and Elizabeth begin to see the merit in each other before the shocking blow of Lydia's disgrace. I mean, I feel really sorry for the two of them. Find interest in the other, and then wham! All your hopes down the drain. I understand that it is difficult to fully understand why Elizabeth would believe that Darcy would no longer pay attention to her after Lydia elopes, but it had large cultural implications. Back then, men and women living together unmarried was completely unheard of. It is still wrong today, but is becoming more socially acceptable. If you consider how unacceptable it was only 50 years ago, imagine 200 years ago. This was a big deal. It is a big step for Darcy to completely disregard Elizabeth's connection with her sister, because he is a very wealthy and important man. You must understand that many people would have disliked any connection with her, and the names Bennet and Wickham would have been "tainted' for years to come. Elizabeth feels this disgrace with Lydia keenly, because she believes that it has injured all future hopes of marriage for her, and her remaining sisters; not to mention that she believes she has lost Darcy. Her more sensitive side can be seen when she bemoans this to herself: "She wanted to hear of him, when there seemed the least chance of gaining intelligence. She was convinced that she could have been happy with him; when it was no longer likely they should meet..... She now began to comprehend that he was exactly the man, who, in disposition and talents, would most suit her. His understanding and temper, though unlike her own, would have answered all her wishes."(Chapter 50) I can just feel her pain. Austen emphasises not only the scandalousness of Lydia's choice, but the personal impact that it has on Elizabeth. Imagine the despair of loosing one she loves because of a bratty 16 year-old sister. Yes, Lydia is 16.

I am awed by Lizzy's grace though. She has every right to be angry at her sister, but it is actually her and Jane who convince their father that Lydia and Wickham should visit Longbourn before they depart for the North; even knowing that it will be awkward and tense. "But Jane and Elizabeth, who agreed in wishing, for the sake of their sister's feelings and consequence, that she should be noticed on her marriage by her parents." (Chapter 50) Lizzy has incerdible fortitude considering that she has a very annoying family, and three annoying sisters. Thank heavens for Jane.

Chapter 52 of 61. Almost there. Hopefully I will finish tonight.