"I as only a comfortable home; and, considering Mr. Collin's 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" (125).
The relationship that arises between Mr. Collins and Charlotte is a perfect example of the societal expectations of marriage. Charlotte says that Mr. Collins has a good background and will have a quality future for he will take control of the Longbourn estate. It was typical for women to base their marriage on such factors as wealth, rather than worry about a life of "imaginable happiness" (125). Charlotte was also desperate to find a man soon, for at the age of twenty-seven, she was nearing an age where no man would take her hand in marriage. Marriage was an important part of womanhood, and those unmarried were perceived as outcasts: "[marriage] was the only honourable provision for well-educated young women of small fortune" (122).
As for Mr. Collins, the reverend sought a wife only to atone for his future ownership of the Bennet estate. He did not want any dispute with the family. When Elizabeth denied his proposal, Mr. Collins' pride was hurt, and finds the next best thing in Charlotte. Once they agree to marriage, Mr. Collins accosts the Bennet family, acting as if he has found better. Mr. Collins' selfish acts show how many men did not care for love, but used marriage only to settle disputes or grudges. There was no real sense of finding true love or happiness as we see in today's society.
Question:
In Elizabeth's response to the news of Charlotte and Mr. Collins' marriage, the reader can infer that Elizabeth
A. hates Charlotte for taking away her chance at marriage.
B. feels that this marriage has no true value.
C. will break their accord.
D. will convince Mr. Bennet to give her the estate.
E. thinks Mr. Collins will be a good husband.
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