Sunday, April 12, 2009

P and P #15: Ch.16-END

"Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure" (356).


I do not agree with Lizzy's philosophy for many reasons. First, many important memories evoke negative emotions. A deceased grandmother is hard to forget when one misses their loving touch or good nature. Secondly, if one only remembers times of happiness, they will not learn a lesson from a prior mistake. For example, Dave was grounded for a month because he stole a candy bar. His punishment evoked great anger, and when he was given a second opportunity to steal candy, Dave forgot the punishment and reminisced of the pleasure from the chocolate he first stole. By following Lizzy's beliefs, Dave's punishment precipitated into vexation rather than remorse. Lastly, embracing sadness from the past can actually bring more pleasure than what is felt presently. Lizzy and Darcy have now fallen in love, but many hardships came before this. After terrible first impressions and Darcy convincing Bingley to leave Jane, love would never seem to have been a conclusion. This being said, the revolution of sentiments between Lizzy and Darcy throughout the novel is of more importance than the love itself. How could Darcy possibly want to burn a letter he sent in the midst of their development, even though it may have hurt Lizzy's feelings? I would hold that as special. All in all, it is important to remember the good times, and the bad.

Question:
From Lady Catherine's response to rumors of Lizzy and Darcy's marriage, the reader can infer that:
A. Lady Catherine approves of Lizzy
B. Lady Catherine cares for her nephew's well-being.
C. Lady Catherine is only concerned for her family's reputation.
D. Lizzy finds Lady Catherine loving.
E. Lizzy desires to be connected to Lady Catherine by marrying Darcy.

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