Pride and Prejudice Characters
The main characters in Pride and Prejudice are Elizabeth Bennet, Fitzwilliam Darcy, Lydia Bennet, George Wickham, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Jane Bennet, and Charles Bingley.
- Elizabeth Bennet is the lively and quick-witted protagonist.
- Fitzwilliam Darcy is a wealthy and prideful man who falls in love with Elizabeth.
- Lydia Bennet is Elizabeth's headstrong and audacious younger sister.
- George Wickham is a greedy, duplicitous man who charms people with his handsome looks and fine manners.
- Mr. and Mrs. Bennet are Elizabeth's parents. They are mismatched in temperament.
- Jane Bennet is Elizabeth's beautiful and sweet-tempered older sister.
- Charles Bingley is Darcy's good friend and Jane's suitor.
Characters
Elizabeth Bennet
Elizabeth Bennet, the heroine of Pride and Prejudice, is the second-eldest Bennet daughter. She is intelligent, spirited, and opinionated. Elizabeth is closest to her older sister, Jane, and serves as a foil to Jane’s innocent and trusting character. Upon Elizabeth’s and Mr. Darcy’s first meeting, he calls Elizabeth “tolerable . . . but not handsome enough to tempt me,” wounding her pride and spurring her prejudice against him. (Read our extended character analysis of Elizabeth Bennet.)
Mr. Darcy
Fitzwilliam Darcy, or Mr. Darcy, is the shy, wealthy, and aristocratic landowner of Pemberley. He is a socially awkward character, which makes him initially come across as cold, haughty, and prideful. Mr. Darcy is judgmental towards those of a lower class than he is. When his good friend Mr. Bingley buys an estate in the countryside near Meryton, Mr. Darcy acts as though he can’t stand the local people; during a ball hosted by Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy claims “any savage can dance,” showing his contempt for the whole affair. (Read our extended character analysis of Mr. Darcy.)
Lydia Bennet
Lydia Bennet, the youngest daughter of the Bennet family, is flighty and audacious. Lydia shows a general disregard for those around her and is often wasteful and silly. For most of the novel, Lydia runs about Meryton with Catherine (Kitty) Bennet, her closest sister, flirting with the militia men and creating a source of public shame for the Bennet family. Lydia’s character is reflective of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet’s many deficiencies in marriage and in parenting. However, she also acts as a catalyst for change within the novel. (Read our extended character analysis of Lydia Bennet.)
Mr. Wickham
Mr. Wickham, a militia officer, is at first portrayed as charming and handsome. As the novel progresses, however, Mr. Wickham’s character is revealed to be manipulative and irresponsible; his goals are money and positive attention, and Wickham employs dastardly methods to try and attain them. As an antagonistic character, Mr. Wickham serves as the catalyst for Elizabeth Bennet’s increased prejudice against Mr. Darcy. (Read our extended character analysis of Mr. Wickham.)
Minor Characters
In addition to the characters above, Austen's Pride and Prejudice includes many minor and supporting characters. For more information, read more about them on their own page.
Expert Q&A
In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, who are the round, flat, static, and dynamic characters?
In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are both round and dynamic characters, undergoing significant personal growth throughout the novel. In contrast, characters like Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Collins are flat and static, serving as sources of comedy due to their unchanging natures. Mr. Bennet and Charlotte Lucas show some roundness, with Mr. Bennet also exhibiting slight dynamism as he recognizes his parental shortcomings. Other characters, including the Gardiners and Jane Bennet, are portrayed consistently, with minimal to no development.
Compare and contrast Elizabeth Bennet and Charlotte Lucas in Pride and Prejudice.
Elizabeth Bennet and Charlotte Lucas in Pride and Prejudice present contrasting approaches to life and marriage. Elizabeth is spirited and driven by emotion, often misjudging others like Darcy and Wickham. She values personal happiness over practicality, as seen in her refusal of Mr. Collins’ proposal. In contrast, Charlotte is practical and realistic, accepting Collins’ offer for economic stability. Both are intelligent and good-natured, but their perspectives on society and marriage diverge significantly.
How would you characterize the relationship between Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Bennet in Pride and Prejudice?
In Pride and Prejudice, the relationship between Mrs. Bennet and Mr. Bennet is marked by significant differences in their personalities and priorities. Mr. Bennet is witty, sarcastic, and reserved, often finding amusement in his wife's lack of understanding. Mrs. Bennet, focused on marrying off her daughters, is characterized by her limited intellect and temperamental nature. Their contrasting preferences in daughters highlight their opposing values, with Mr. Bennet favoring intelligence and Mrs. Bennet favoring frivolity.
Who is Mr. Hurst in Pride and Prejudice?
Mr. Hurst in Pride and Prejudice is the husband of Louisa Hurst, one of Mr. Bingley's sisters. He is part of Mr. Bingley's party and is described as unremarkable in appearance and indolent, living only to eat, drink, and play cards. His manners are depicted as snobbish and rude, rarely speaking and often criticizing or dismissing others, highlighting his ungentlemanly behavior despite his status.
What do Darcy and Elizabeth's conversations on pp.89-93 and pp.359-361 reveal about their character development?
The conversations between Darcy and Elizabeth reveal their evolving characters and relationship. Initially, Elizabeth holds a prejudice against Darcy due to Wickham's influence, leading to tense and ironic exchanges. However, as Elizabeth re-evaluates her opinions, especially after visiting Pemberley and learning of Darcy's true nature, she grows to respect and understand him. Darcy, in turn, appreciates Elizabeth's wit and conviction. Their mutual pride and prejudice are ultimately overcome, leading to a deeper, more genuine connection.
What are the main differences between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Charles Bingley in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice?
Fitzwilliam Darcy and Charles Bingley are contrasting characters in Pride and Prejudice. Bingley is charming, sociable, and easily influenced, particularly by Darcy, which leads to temporary separation from Jane Bennet. In contrast, Darcy is twice as wealthy, aloof, and initially perceived as arrogant, but he is ultimately revealed to be kind and conscientious towards those he cares for, including his sister and less fortunate individuals.
What three adjectives, with supporting quotes, describe Mrs. Bennet and Jane?
Does character development occur in Pride and Prejudice?
Character development is central to Pride and Prejudice, particularly in the evolving relationship between Fitzwilliam Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. Initially, Darcy is prideful and dismissive, while Elizabeth harbors prejudice against him. Through a series of misunderstandings and revelations, both characters undergo significant personal growth. Darcy learns humility and self-awareness, while Elizabeth overcomes her prejudice, leading to a mutual understanding and love. Their transformations highlight the novel's themes of pride and prejudice.
In Pride and Prejudice, which characters share Elizabeth's marriage views and which reflect society's perspective?
How are family relationships portrayed in Pride and Prejudice?
In Pride and Prejudice, who is Colonel Fitzwilliam?
Colonel Fitzwilliam in Pride and Prejudice is Mr. Darcy's cousin and Lady Catherine de Bourgh's nephew. He is introduced at Rosings, where Elizabeth Bennet meets him. Fitzwilliam is a trusted confidant who provides Elizabeth with insights into Darcy's character and actions, particularly regarding Mr. Bingley and Jane's relationship. His honesty and connection to Darcy help Elizabeth reassess her views on Darcy, making him a crucial figure in the novel's development.
How does Jane Austen portray Mr. Collins and Mr. Wickham in Pride and Prejudice Volumes 1 and 2?
What are the differences between Elizabeth, Lydia, and their mother in Pride and Prejudice?
Elizabeth is sensible and intelligent, contrasting sharply with her mother, Mrs. Bennet, and her sister Lydia. Mr. Bennet values Elizabeth's intelligence, considering her more perceptive than her sisters. Lydia, like their mother, lacks decorum and propriety, being described as careless, idle, and vain. Mrs. Bennet's ignorance and selfishness are mirrored in Lydia's behavior, such as her flirtations and disregard for family reputation, highlighting the differences between Elizabeth's and Lydia's characters.
Who are the antagonists in Pride and Prejudice?
The primary antagonists in Pride and Prejudice are initially Mr. Darcy and later Mr. Wickham. Mr. Darcy's dismissive remarks about Elizabeth at the Meryton assembly and his interference in Jane and Mr. Bingley's relationship position him as the antagonist early in the novel. However, once the truth about Mr. Wickham's deceit and his elopement with Lydia is revealed, he becomes the true antagonist, threatening the Bennet family's reputation.
The evolution of Elizabeth and Darcy's characters and relationship in Pride and Prejudice
In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth and Darcy's characters and relationship evolve significantly. Initially, Elizabeth perceives Darcy as arrogant, while Darcy views her as beneath him. Through various misunderstandings and revelations, both characters grow—Elizabeth recognizes Darcy's true nature, and Darcy becomes more humble and considerate. Their mutual development leads to a deep, respectful love and eventual marriage.
In Pride and Prejudice, who is Mrs. Bennet's gossip-loving sister?
Mrs. Bennet's gossip-loving sister in Pride and Prejudice is Mrs. Phillips. She lives nearby in Meryton with her husband, Mr. Phillips, an attorney. Known for her interest in local affairs, particularly concerning the militia, she provides the Bennet family with much of their information. Jane Austen uses Mrs. Phillips to highlight the vulgarity and nosiness of middle-class rural society, as she eagerly shares news with her neighbors.
Who undergoes more change in Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth or Mr. Darcy?
Compare and contrast two characters in Pride and Prejudice by their objectives, philosophies, and traits.
In Pride and Prejudice, Lydia Bennet and Mr. Bennet embody contrasting objectives and philosophies. Lydia is impulsive and seeks frivolous enjoyment, driven by a desire for immediate gratification without deep thought. Her actions reflect her carefree, vivacious nature. In contrast, Mr. Bennet is detached, preferring solitude and using wit to critique his family, particularly his wife. He lacks ambition for his daughters, unlike Mrs. Bennet, who is socially driven and obsessed with marrying them off to wealthy suitors.
In Pride and Prejudice, how and why are Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy complex characters?
Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy are complex characters due to their multifaceted personalities and development throughout Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth is witty, intelligent, and capable of growth, as seen in her initial pride and hasty judgments. Mr. Darcy is reserved, proud, yet loyal, struggling with his class prejudices. Both characters embody pride and prejudice, which threaten their relationship but also drive their personal growth, illustrating Jane Austen's critique of these traits.
Briefly discuss the characters of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's five daughters in Pride and Prejudice.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's five daughters in Pride and Prejudice are divided into two categories. Jane and Elizabeth are rational, well-mannered, and admired for their beauty and kindness. Jane is sweet-tempered, while Elizabeth's wit sometimes leads to pride. The other daughters—Mary, Kitty, and Lydia—are characterized by vanity and foolishness. Mary's pretentiousness, Kitty's lack of individuality, and Lydia's reckless flirtation nearly jeopardize the family's reputation and prospects, highlighting their parents' shortcomings.
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's parental involvement and their impact on their daughters' character development in Pride and Prejudice
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet's parental involvement significantly impacts their daughters' character development. Mr. Bennet's detached and sarcastic demeanor fosters independence in Elizabeth, while Mrs. Bennet's frivolous and anxious nature influences Lydia's recklessness. Their contrasting parenting styles highlight the importance of balanced guidance and contribute to the diverse personalities and choices of their daughters.
Bingley-Darcy and Jane-Elizabeth Relationships in Pride and Prejudice
In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen contrasts the relationships of Bingley-Jane and Darcy-Elizabeth to explore themes of love and social dynamics. Mr. Bingley and Jane Bennet's relationship is characterized by mutual affection and simplicity, serving as a foil to the complex and evolving dynamics between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. While Bingley and Jane's love is immediate and uncomplicated, Darcy and Elizabeth's bond develops over time, overcoming pride, prejudice, and social barriers. Both relationships illustrate different pathways to true love, highlighting emotional growth and societal influences.
Mr. Darcy vs. Mr. Wickham: Character and Marriage Views in Pride and Prejudice
In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham are contrasting characters. Darcy initially appears haughty and proud, but he is fundamentally sincere, loyal, and kind, with a strong moral code and capacity for love. His pride stems from his social status but evolves as he falls in love with Elizabeth. Wickham, in contrast, is charming but deceitful, motivated by greed and self-interest. His pride is shallow, and he marries for money, lacking genuine affection or moral integrity.
In Pride and Prejudice, do gender roles control the characters' lives?
In Pride and Prejudice, gender roles significantly control characters' lives, intertwining with class expectations. Women of higher classes were expected not to work, making them financially reliant on marriage. This is evident in Mrs. Bennet's obsession with marrying off her daughters due to financial insecurity and Charlotte Lucas's pragmatic marriage to Mr. Collins. Gender norms dictate social interactions and perceptions, profoundly influencing characters' life choices and social dynamics.
Kitty's character and development in Pride and Prejudice
Kitty Bennet, in Pride and Prejudice, starts as a frivolous and impressionable character, heavily influenced by her younger sister Lydia. Throughout the novel, she matures, especially after Lydia's scandal. By the end, Kitty shows signs of improvement, benefiting from the positive influence of her elder sisters, Jane and Elizabeth.
Character Contrasts in Pride and Prejudice
In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen contrasts characters to highlight their qualities. Elizabeth Bennet is independent, judgmental, and forthright, contrasting with her sister Jane's trusting and gentle nature. Elizabeth's keen observations make her wary, while Jane's optimism sometimes blinds her to others' faults. Caroline Bingley, a foil to Elizabeth, is manipulative and status-obsessed, unlike Elizabeth's sincerity and disregard for social rank. These contrasts emphasize themes of pride, prejudice, and the importance of integrity in relationships.
Can you relate to any characters in Pride and Prejudice?
When reflecting on your reaction to Pride and Prejudice, consider if you were engaged in the story and how you felt at the end. When reflecting on if you related to the characters, consider if you have felt like they have or been in similar situations. For example, consider if pride has ever complicated a relationship in your life like it did to Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth.
The relationship dynamics between Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their responses to Elizabeth's decisions in Pride and Prejudice
Mr. and Mrs. Bennet have contrasting responses to Elizabeth's decisions. Mr. Bennet respects Elizabeth's judgment and supports her choices, valuing her intelligence and independence. In contrast, Mrs. Bennet often disapproves and pressures Elizabeth to make decisions that align with societal expectations, particularly regarding marriage, reflecting her concern for social status and financial security.
Mr. Collins and Charlotte Lucas's relationship in "Pride and Prejudice."
Mr. Collins and Charlotte Lucas's relationship in "Pride and Prejudice" is pragmatic rather than romantic. Charlotte marries Mr. Collins primarily for financial security and social standing, despite his pompous nature. Mr. Collins, on the other hand, is pleased to have a wife who fulfills his desire for a respectable match. Their union illustrates the societal pressures and economic considerations of marriage in the early 19th century.
What are Elizabeth's traits in volume 2 of Pride and Prejudice?
The relationships between the Bennet sisters and their impact on the narrative of Pride and Prejudice
The relationships between the Bennet sisters in Pride and Prejudice highlight various social and personal dynamics, driving the plot forward. Jane and Elizabeth's close bond contrasts with Lydia's recklessness, affecting the family's reputation. Their differing personalities and choices underscore themes of marriage, class, and morality, enriching the narrative and character development.
Comparison of Charlotte and Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice
Charlotte Lucas and Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice contrast in their views on marriage. Charlotte is pragmatic, marrying Mr. Collins for financial security despite lacking affection. Elizabeth, however, values love and mutual respect, rejecting Mr. Collins and later accepting Mr. Darcy only after recognizing their genuine connection. Their differing attitudes highlight varied societal pressures and personal values regarding marriage.
Favorite and least favorite characters in Pride and Prejudice
Elizabeth Bennet is often cited as a favorite character for her intelligence, wit, and strong sense of independence. Conversely, Mr. Collins is frequently mentioned as a least favorite character due to his obsequiousness, lack of self-awareness, and sycophantic behavior.
Who are three pairs of characters in Pride and Prejudice that scorn each other?
Three pairs of characters in Pride and Prejudice who scorn each other include Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, due to initial misunderstandings and prejudices; Miss Bingley and Elizabeth, fueled by Miss Bingley's jealousy over Darcy's interest in Elizabeth; and Mr. Darcy and Mr. Wickham, whose animosity stems from Wickham's deceitful actions and attempts to damage Darcy's reputation. These conflicts highlight themes of pride, prejudice, and social rivalry.
Virtues and Values in Pride and Prejudice
In Pride and Prejudice, virtues and values play a central role in character development and thematic exploration. Elizabeth Bennet is characterized by honesty and family loyalty, while Darcy exhibits concern for family and friends. The novel critiques upper-class values, particularly the emphasis on marriage for social status, as seen through characters like Mrs. Bennet and Charlotte Lucas. Ultimately, Austen highlights the importance of love, integrity, and personal growth over wealth and societal expectations, with Elizabeth representing the ideal of a thoughtful, independent woman.
Jane Austen's preference for education over nature in shaping character in Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice suggests a preference for education over nature in shaping character. Through characters like Elizabeth Bennet, who exhibits intelligence and wit shaped by her education, Austen implies that one's upbringing and learning play a crucial role in character development, outweighing innate qualities.
Contrasts and comparisons between Mr. Darcy and Mr. Collins in Pride and Prejudice
Mr. Darcy and Mr. Collins in Pride and Prejudice contrast sharply in character and social skills. Darcy is wealthy, reserved, and proud but ultimately honorable and caring. In contrast, Mr. Collins is obsequious, socially awkward, and self-important, often making inappropriate comments. Both men propose to Elizabeth Bennet, but their differing personalities and manners highlight the novel's themes of class and personal integrity.
Outline the characters Elizabeth and Darcy from Pride and Prejudice.
Elizabeth Bennet is a sharp, intelligent young woman who is skeptical of marriage conventions and protective of her family. She initially misjudges Darcy due to Mr. Wickham's deceit but evolves after learning the truth. Fitzwilliam Darcy, embodying "pride," is wealthy, socially superior, and blunt, initially offending Elizabeth with his proposal. However, his willingness to admit faults and open up to Elizabeth helps them overcome their respective "pride" and "prejudice," leading to mutual affection.
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