Friday, March 20, 2009

P and P #3: Ch.11-16

"The world is blinded by his fortune and consequence, or frightened by his high and imposing manners, and sees him only as he chooses to be seen" (79).


The prejudice many show to Darcy did seem reasonable prior to Wickham's conversation with Elizabeth. Darcy was arrogant and conceited, qualities that were put down in the present society. Now that Wickham explained Darcy's background, I feel Darcy is being treated unfairly. Any son knows how important a relationship with their father is. A father is a role-model, someone they look up to for the rest of their life. Contrarily, Darcy did not receive as much attention or love from his father as Wickham did. For one's father to disown his only son by bequeathing his birthright to another person is heartbreaking. For this reason, it is obvious that Darcy acts in such a manner.
The quote is also a critique of the society. Everyone judges each other and talks behind other's backs. They are so critical of proper etiquette, and find those with unconventional mannerisms disrespectful and proud. Darcy is one of these men who society finds disagreeable. His fortune, speech, and actions evoke an emotion of jealousy and malice inside the people he interacts with. This is similar to the iceberg principle of morality, where we see society judging Darcy for his actions, rather than contemplating over his process.

Question:
In Wickham's conversation with Elizabeth, one can infer that Elizabeth:
A. wants to marry Wickham
B. dislikes Caroline
C. is attracted to Wickham
D. likes Darcy
E. finds Wickham disagreeable

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