Illustration of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy with neutral expressions on their faces

Pride and Prejudice

by Jane Austen

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Mr. Darcy

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Extended Character Analysis

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.

Mr. Darcy becomes attracted to Elizabeth Bennet in spite of her lower social position. He is repulsed by Elizabeth’s family and their ostentatious nature and tries to fight against his feelings for her. As a result, he behaves coldly and unkindly toward Elizabeth, which damages her opinion of him. Mr. Darcy convinces Mr. Bingley to leave the countryside and to stop courting Jane Bennet, as he feels it is a bad match. He also interprets Jane’s mild, reserved manner as a sign that she does not truly love Bingley. Mr. Darcy is also grateful to leave Netherfield, for he worries that spending any more time near Elizabeth would only cause him to like her more.

When Mr. Darcy sees Elizabeth again near Rosings, the estate of his aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, he realizes he loves Elizabeth. He proposes marriage, but he does so in such a condescending manner—he insults her family and social status—that she instantly refuses. Elizabeth’s rejection stuns him; Mr. Darcy has not been challenged like this before, so he seeks to make amends and defend his character. He writes a letter to Elizabeth, hoping to convince her that most of his actions were valid. After several months, Mr. Darcy meets Elizabeth again while she is viewing the grounds of his estate, Pemberley, in Derbyshire. He makes an effort to be kinder to Elizabeth and her relatives, hoping to make up for his previous behavior. He also introduces Elizabeth to his beloved younger sister, Georgiana, showcasing a more considerate and good-natured side of his personality.

When Lydia Bennet and Mr. Wickham elope, Mr. Darcy feels partly responsible and straightens out the unfortunate affair. As a result, Elizabeth comes to understand his true character, and when he proposes to her again, she accepts. Mr. Darcy, although representative of flaws relating to pride and ill judgement, is able to overcome his flaws and find love and a successful partner in Elizabeth Bennet. The two showcase the positive outcome of a marriage founded on mutual respect and affection.

Expert Q&A

In Pride and Prejudice, what character aspects make Mr. Darcy fall for Elizabeth?

In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy falls in love with Elizabeth Bennet because of her lively spirit and, in particular, because she stands up to him and refuses to flatter him. He also comes to find her attractive, especially her eyes, though at first he considered her not pretty enough to dance with. We can see this love beginning to emerge in chapter 6 and continuing in chapter 32, shortly before he proposes marriage.

When does Elizabeth start falling for Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice?

In Pride and Prejudice, the exact moment at which Elizabeth begins to fall in love with Mr. Darcy is somewhat difficult to pinpoint, although it is evident that a definite change in her feelings towards him begins to take shape during Elizabeth's visit to Pemberly, where Darcy's housekeeper speaks fondly of him, and the estate itself delights Lizzy, as it is without an "artificial appearance," reflecting another aspect of Darcy's character.

How did Mr. Darcy propose to Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice?

Mr. Darcy proposes to Elizabeth in an insulting and arrogant manner, telling her that he will marry her despite her embarrassing family. He is surprised when she reacts with utter fury and turns him down. Darcy later apologizes for his pride and arrogance, and when he proposes to Elizabeth a second time, he is accepted.

What is Mr. Darcy's greatest fault according to Pride and Prejudice?

Mr. Darcy's greatest fault in Pride and Prejudice is his "resentful temper," as he admits to Elizabeth. He acknowledges that he holds grudges and struggles with letting go of his resentment. This admission comes during a conversation where Elizabeth teases him about his behavior, highlighting the contrast between her extroverted nature and his more reserved demeanor.

Why is Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice perceived as rude?

Mr. Darcy is rude primarily because his high social rank has left him with an overinflated sense of pride. This pride, combined with his naturally reserved personality and his social awkwardness, often makes him come across as arrogant and rude—particularly to those who don't know him well.

What does Darcy mean by "We neither of us perform to strangers" in Pride and Prejudice?

Darcy's statement "We neither of us perform to strangers" highlights his and Elizabeth's tendency to be candid and straightforward, avoiding pretentiousness with those they don't know well. Unlike others who might adapt their behavior to make favorable impressions, both characters are direct and honest. Darcy's candid remarks about women's accomplishments and Elizabeth's bold retort to Darcy's comment on her taste exemplify their refusal to "perform" for others' approval.

How does Pemberley symbolize Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice?

Pemberley symbolizes Mr. Darcy by reflecting his wealth, taste, and social standing. The estate’s grandeur and beauty mirror Darcy’s own physical attractiveness and aristocratic nature. Pemberley's order, harmony, and hospitality represent Darcy's generosity and fairness. Additionally, its long-standing family legacy underscores Darcy’s high social rank and traditional values. Overall, Pemberley serves as a metonymy, showcasing Darcy's admirable qualities and enhancing Elizabeth's perception of him.

In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, what does Mr. Darcy's first proposal to Elizabeth reveal about his character?

Mr. Darcy's first proposal to Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice reveals his struggle with his feelings and his pride. He approaches Elizabeth in a hurried and agitated manner, indicating inner conflict. Darcy admits he loves her despite believing it beneath his dignity due to her family's social standing and lack of propriety. His proposal, though harsh and rude, is honest, expressing both his affection and his concerns about her family's behavior.

What motivates Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice?

Mr. Darcy is initially motivated by pride, holding a sense of superiority over others due to his social status. However, his motivation shifts as he falls in love with Elizabeth Bennet. Despite her family's lower status and peculiarities, Darcy's love for Elizabeth drives him to overcome his arrogance, clear her family's tarnished reputation, and ultimately win her affection.

What is a character sketch of Darcy in Pride and Prejudice?

Mr. Darcy is a wealthy and initially prideful character in Pride and Prejudice. He appears aloof and rude to Elizabeth Bennet, but his actions reveal a caring nature. Raised in privilege, he was spoiled but instilled with morals. His deep affection for his sister Georgiana and his intervention in Lydia's predicament show his kindness. Elizabeth's perception of him changes, leading to their eventual engagement. Despite his stern exterior, Darcy is admired by those close to him.

What is Mr. Darcy's first name in Pride and Prejudice?

Mr. Darcy’s first name is Fitzwilliam.

How do the languages differ in Mr. Darcy's two proposals to Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice?

In both proposals, Darcy is still very honest and direct with his words. The only true difference between the two is the content of what he says to Elizabeth in both.

What is Mr. Darcy's age in Pride and Prejudice?

In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy is twenty-eight years old when he marries Elizabeth Bennet.

In Pride and Prejudice, why did Darcy write a letter to Elizabeth after she rejected his proposal?

Darcy writes a letter to Elizabeth after she rejects his proposal to defend himself against her accusations. Elizabeth is offended by his proposal and cites two grievances: his interference in Jane and Bingley's relationship and his dealings with Wickham. Darcy is particularly motivated to clarify his actions regarding Wickham, aiming to protect Elizabeth from Wickham's deceit and to correct her misconceptions about his character.

What are Mr. Darcy's feelings about Elizabeth's refusal of his first proposal?

Mr. Darcy is deeply shocked and offended by Elizabeth's refusal of his first proposal. Initially, he is incredulous that he has fallen for someone of lower social and financial standing. His proposal, awkwardly presented, assumes her acceptance due to the advantages she would gain. Elizabeth's rejection leaves him hurt and angry, challenging his self-perception and pride. Despite his vow to leave her alone, her spirited refusal motivates him to pursue her further.

What colors represent Darcy's feelings, manners, and pride in Pride and Prejudice?

In Pride and Prejudice, Darcy's feelings are represented by a bluish-grey, reflecting his elite status and subdued, unfulfilled emotions. His manners are symbolized by a fiery gold, indicating his ability to maintain good manners even when provoked, such as in the Lydia situation. Darcy's pride is depicted as a royal purple, highlighting his noble status and the dual impact of pride on his character.

Why is Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice wealthy?

Mr. Darcy is rich because he comes from an old, prestigious family that owns a great deal of land. His wealth and social status are inherited.

How would you define Darcy's relationships in Pride and Prejudice?

Darcy's relationships in Pride and Prejudice vary by character, influenced by his status as a member of the landed gentry. His interactions with Elizabeth Bennet are complex, often hindered by his social consciousness and initial pride, which affects her perception of him. In contrast, his friendship with Bingley is marked by a subtle class hierarchy, as Darcy's wealth is land-based, unlike Bingley's trade-based wealth. Darcy's awareness of his status makes him socially awkward and cautious in relationships, particularly in marriage.

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