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

Pride and Prejudice

by Jane Austen

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Student Question

In Pride and Prejudice, what is Elizabeth's interpretation of Caroline's letter to Jane?

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Elizabeth interprets Caroline Bingley's letter to Jane as a manipulative attempt to dissuade her from pursuing a relationship with Mr. Bingley. Caroline suggests that Bingley is interested in Miss Darcy, aiming to discourage Jane by implying her brother's heart is already spoken for. Elizabeth sees through Caroline's deceit, recognizing her true intent to keep Bingley away from Jane and align him with Miss Darcy, while also understanding Caroline's disdain for the Bennet sisters.

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It is very clear that Caroline is telling Jane that Charles has a real affection for Miss Darcy and that his pursuit and eventual proposal to her would please everyone.  Especially Caroline who has her eye on Mr. Darcy throughout the book.  Caroline is insulting Jane first by suggesting that she is a dear friend, which she is not, and then by boldly telling her that Charles really cares for Miss Darcy and if you, Jane, thought that he liked you well it was just Charles being polite and sociable.  His heart, according to his sister, is already spoken for and thus not available to Jane or any other women, particularly since no other woman can hold a candle to Miss Darcy. Caroline takes great pleasure in delivering this news to Jane, knowing that she would be heartbroken.  I think that Lizzie realizes that Jane should not give up on Mr. Bingley on his...

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sister's word, but rather wait until he makes his feelings known through his own communication with Jane.  Lizzie seesCaroline Bingley for the nasty sneak that she really is, bitter and spoiled and looking down on the Bennett sisters as beneath her and her brother.

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When Jane reads the letter from Caroline Bingley, telling her that they have all left Netherfield for London and are unlikely to return, Elizabeth at first it is good news. She thinks it will be easier for Jane to get Mr. Bingley's attention without his sister around. However, Bingley is gone as well. Caroline goes on to say that Mr. Darcy's sister will be in London and makes it appear that her brother is in love with her. Jane is taken in by these words, but not Elizabeth. Her interpretation:

"Miss Bingley sees that her brother is in love with you, and wants him to marry Miss Darcy. She follows him to town in hope of keeping him there, and tries to persuade you that he does not care about you." (chap. 21, linked below)

The entire text of Pride and Prejudice is on eNotes at the link below.

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