Pride and Prejudice Group

Question:

susiegirl1290
susiegirl1290
Student
High School - 11th Grade

What is Mr. Collin's profession in "Pride and Prejudice"?

Rate question:

Posted by susiegirl1290 on Monday June 30, 2008 at 8:15 PM and tagged with characters, mr collins, pride and prejudice, profession.

Answers:


  1. sullymonster Teacher
    Community / Jr. College

    eNotes Editor

    Mr. Collin's, who is a cousin to the Bennet's, is a clergyman.  At the time of this novel, a man of the clergy would have to earn a "living" from a wealthy family that maintained a local village church.  The wealth of the clergyman was dependent on the wealth of the living, i.e., the family.  In Mr. Collin's case, he has been "so lucky as to earn the patronage of the honorable Lady Catherine de Bourgh."  In other words, he has found himself a profitable living.  This is why he is so surprised at Elizabeth's refusal of him.  He is adequate or even above her station in life, and therefore should be acceptable (love not being a consideration).  This is why Charolette Lucas is so content to take him as her husband.  He provides her with a comfortable life:

    • "I ask only a comfortable home; and, considering Mr. Collins' character, connections, 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.” (Chapter 22)
    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/pride/characters

    Rate answer:

    Posted by sullymonster on Monday June 30, 2008 at 8:23 PM


  2. jakegabe28 Teacher
    High School - 9th Grade

    He is a clergyman.  Of course, you could say that his "other profession" is trying to get married to a Bennet girl...

    Rate answer:

    Posted by jakegabe28 on Sunday August 10, 2008 at 10:04 AM