Editor's Choice
How does the proverb "appearances are often deceptive" relate to Pride and Prejudice?
Quick answer:
The proverb "appearances are often deceptive" is central to Pride and Prejudice. Characters like Mr. Wickham and Caroline Bingley use deception to manipulate others. Wickham deceives Elizabeth Bennet about his past with Mr. Darcy, while Caroline feigns friendship with Jane Bennet for ulterior motives. Both characters influence major plot developments, such as Elizabeth's initial rejection of Darcy and Jane's separation from Mr. Bingley. Ultimately, their deceptive motives are revealed, underscoring Austen's message against deceit.
Deceptive appearances play a major role in driving the plot of Pride and Prejudice. If we take the character of Mr Wickham, for example, he uses deception to trick Elizabeth Bennett into believing that he was duped out of his inheritance by Mr Darcy. In reality, Wickham squandered his inheritance and attempted to marry Georgiana Darcy but Elizabeth is oblivious to what really happened and takes Wickham's side. This deception directly contributes to Elizabeth snubbing Darcy in chapter 34, when he proposes marriage.
Similarly, Caroline Bingley provides another example of a deceptive appearance, specifically in her relationship with Jane Bennett. On the surface, she is very friendly and welcoming towards Jane. She even invites her to stay at Netherfield. But Caroline's friendship with Jane is based on deception and Elizabeth Bennett is the first character to see through it, as she states in chapter six: "their kindness...
Unlock This Answer Now
Start your 48-hour free trial and get ahead in class. Boost your grades with access to expert answers and top-tier study guides. Thousands of students are already mastering their assignments—don't miss out. Cancel anytime.
Already a member? Log in here.
to Jane, such as it was, had a value as arising in all probability from the influence of their brother's admiration."
Caroline's deception drives the plot by separating Jane from Mr Bingley. Firstly, by having the party leave Netherfield and move to London, and secondly, by admitting to Jane that she intends for her brother to marry Mr Darcy's sister, Georgiana.
While, in the short term, both Caroline and Mr Wickham succeed in manipulating other characters by deception, their true motives are eventually exposed. This is one of Austen's most important messages, that deception is not the way to win a person's heart.