Character Analysis #2: Jane Bennet

Nathaniel Burns-Sarno
Advanced Placement English/Mr. George
November 30, 2009
Character Analysis: Jane Bennet
Jane Bennet is a beautiful, trusting individual with a shining personality who sees only the good qualities of those around her.
Jane Bennet, sister and best friend of the novel’s protagonist, Elizabeth Bennet, is known for her beautiful appearance and agreeable personality. These qualities make her the favorite daughter of Mrs. Bennet, who wishes to see all her daughters married to wealthy gentlemen. Jane shows that she cares for others very much. She is always there to assist Elizabeth with her problems and expresses that she values the happiness of others over her own happiness. Jane is very cordial and polite to those around her, which sometimes causes trouble for her. An example of this is that both Caroline Bingley and Mr. Darcy argue that Jane’s behavior towards Mr. Bingley may not have anything to do with affection, but rather may have to do with the good manners Jane shows to everyone around her. However, Jane’s love for Bingley is genuine and she hopes that they will be together even after Bingley leaves town. Jane has an optimistic disposition that causes her to only see the good in other people, even when they are clearly attempting to tamper with her happiness. The greatest example of this is when Elizabeth insults the characteristics of Caroline Bingley, who does not approve of the relationship between her brother and Jane and attempts to prevent them from being together. Jane’s response to Elizabeth’s description of Caroline was, "'If we thought alike of Miss Bingley, your representation of all this, might make me quite easy But I know the foundation is unjust. Caroline is incapable of willfully deceiving any one; and all that I can hope in this case is, that she is deceived herself'"(Austen 91). This shows how unwilling Jane is to believe that some people may have erroneous qualities. Jane remains trustful throughout the novel, and her good nature is rewarded in the form of her marriage to Bingley and in finally seeing Elizabeth truly happy.
Jane is basically Mrs. Bennet’s prized show-dog, beauty and temperament beyond all of her sisters. Being so loyal and trusting, the show-dog will follow the influences of those around it, trusting that everyone has its best interest at heart. The show-dog is also shown around by its handler, who boasts to all around her of its elegance and good nature. The handler takes great care in showing off their show-dog to other handlers so that its superior breeding may be known by all. This is done in order to increase the chance that their show-dog will become part of a breeding pair with a show-dog of grand ancestry and fortune. However, even through the obsessive behavior of its handler, the show-dog will remain optimistic and trusting of those around it, thus keeping its true beauty in its loyalty and devotion.
A modern day Jane Bennet would be Princess Diana, who had a mother who wanted her married to a respectable man and many men in want of her hand. Diana also took special interest in the plight of others and sought to ease the pain of those in need, just as Jane offers her ear to those who are in need of sympathy.

Character Analysis #1: Darcy

Nathaniel Burns-Sarno
Advanced Placement English/Mr. George
November 30, 2009
Character Analysis: Mr. Darcy
Mr. Darcy is a man of few words who, through his quiet and observant behavior, gives others the impression that he is prideful and antisocial, but is in fact a kind and intellectual man who is able to recognize his flaws and seeks to correct them.
Mr. Darcy is a socially awkward man. This is clear from the beginning, as the first appearance of Darcy in the novel places him at a ball, where he only joins in a few dances and spends the rest of night in observance of the other guests, who in turn observe him. Since he shows little interest in anyone around him, the guests of the ball immediately deem him proud. The guest of the ball who believes this the most is Elizabeth Bennet, the protagonist of the novel, who becomes intent on hating Darcy after he makes a less-than-flattering comment about her appearance. This begins an interesting relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth in which the two of them attempt to surpass each other in communication skills. It is in one such conversation that Darcy reveals his greatest flaw. "'I cannot forget the follies and vices of others so soon as I ought, nor their offences against myself. My feelings are not puffed about with every attempt to move them. My temper would perhaps be called resentful.-My good opinion once lost is lost forever.'"(Austen 43). This shows Darcy’s ability to identify his flaws and openly admit to them. In having so many heated debates with Elizabeth, Darcy gains an interest in her that later turns to love. It is after realizing his love for Elizabeth that Darcy takes great strides in improving his character, even building up enough confidence to propose to Elizabeth. During his proposal and Elizabeth’s rejection of him, Darcy reveals the great obstacles that he surpassed in order to love her. Darcy, the man originally thought to be proud and antisocial, overcame tremendous odds so that he may pursue the love of Elizabeth. It is after he is rejected by her that he overcomes the greatest odd of all; his personality. Through confronting every insult Elizabeth speaks to him, Darcy goes from being a quiet and antisocial man to being pleasant and agreeable.
Darcy’s personality is comparable to that of rogue lion’s. While lions are known for being sociable, there are cases in which a young male rejected by its pride will become quite solitary and hostile, keeping with them only one or two companions at the most. These solitary males tend to avoid social interaction with other members of their species and often observe the behavior of social groups. It is only after a rogue lion finds a favorable lioness that it will be able to overcome its hostility and enjoy the benefits of life in a pride.
A modern day Mr. Darcy would be John Lennon, who faced a situation similar to Darcy’s while pursuing his love, Yoko Ono. Yoko rejected Lennon many times because of his arrogance, causing Lennon to look within himself in order to rid himself of his flaws. Once Lennon overcame his pride, he was able to win the hand of Yoko Ono, just as Darcy earned the hand of Elizabeth.

P&P #14

"'I cannot be so easily reconciled to myself. The recollection of what I then said, of my conduct, my manners, my expressions during the whole of it, is now, and has been for many months, inexpressibly painful to me'"(Austen 281)

Darcy, who has been assumed to be the embodiment of pride throughout a novel, actually turns out to be one of the most humble characters present in the novel. There were many examples of this before, but this quote shows him admitting to particular faults, rather than just his faults in general. Also, the fact that he finds it difficult to forgive himself shows his humility. The other interesting thing about this quote is that he implies that Elizabeth is more merciful than him, which seems like it would be difficult for someone like Darcy to do.

"'Oh! My sweetest Lizzy! how rich and how great you will be! What pin-money, what jewels, what carriages you will have! Jane's is nothing to it-nothing at all. I am so pleased-so happy. Such a charming man!'"(290)

Somehow, this does not surprise me. Mrs. Bennet spent a great deal of the novel by taking shots at Mr. Darcy and saying what a disagreeable person he was. She showed annoyance during every one of his visits, and even thought of ways to get rid of him. So, it is clear she detests Darcy. However, she decides to throw off her detestment when she finds that Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth are engaged. The only reason Mrs. Bennet is happy about it is that Elizabeth will become rich by marrying Darcy. Mrs. Bennet even belittles the engagement of Jane, who is supposed to be her favorite, simply because of Darcy's wealth. And because Elizabeth is to share in that fortune, Mrs. Bennet suddenly desides Mr. Darcy to be charming. After all that has happened involving her throughout the novel, Mrs. Bennet somehow manages to remain static.

P&P 13

"The Bennets were speedily pronounced to be the luckiest family in the world, though only a few weeks before, when Lydia had first run away, they had been generally proved to be marked out for misfortune"'(Austen 267)

This passage shows who quickly things change in the setting of the novel. The line is definitely a critique of something, and my guess is that it is a critique of how in the society of the novel, a family member marrying into money can change the whole town's perspective on the family despite what the family had been involved in previously. Forgiveness is not a bad thing, but changing your view of someone simply because they have switched classes is a bit ridiculous. This quote is also interesting because it states that anything good or bad that has happened to the Bennets has been a matter of luck. Therefor, it is the luck of one member of the family that saves the names of the others. At least, that is what many in the society of the novel appear to think.

"'I will not be intimidated into anything so wholly unreasonable. Your ladyship wants Mr. Darcy to marry your daughter; but would my giving you the wished-for promise, make their marriage any more probable?'"(273)

Elizabeth should be given credit for holding her ground in this situation. However, the way she goes about defending her stance makes her appear to enjoy denying Lady De Bourgh(which she probably does, but it does not seem like a good idea to make that obvious). Elizabeth insinuates that the relationship between Darcy and the daughter of Lady De Bourgh is not as meant to be as Lady De Bourgh would like to think. While that is true, it makes little sense for Elizabeth to say such a thing. She was right in refusing to promise anything, but seemed to enjoy tormenting Lady De Bourgh a bit too much.

P&P 12

"'I have heard, indeed, that she is uncommonly imporved within this year or two. When I last saw her, she was not very promising. I am very glad you liked her. I hope she will turn out well'"(Austen 250)

This just seems like a weird thing for Wickham to say. Why insult Georgiana? Is he trying to cover the fact that he once pursued her? Is he resentful to her because his advances were met with failure? Or, would what he said even be considered insulting during that period? I also find it a bit odd that he would say this simply because Elizabeth told him that she likes Georgiana. It makes me wonder if he was trying to lure her into a deeper conversation so that he could create more lies to tell her.

"'He could be still amiable, still pleasing, to my uncle and aunt, when he was in town; and why not to me? If he fears me, why come hither? If he no longer cares for me, why silent? Teazing, teazing, man! I will think no more about him'"(258).

Elizabeth continues to show her confusion over Darcy. It seems she was very hopeful that he would once again confess his love for her. So much so, that the fact that he did not do it moments after entering the room has her bewildered. She also seems to have the impression that Darcy may be leading her on by remaining silent. Has she forgotten that this is the way that Darcy tends to behave? Or is it because he went through a period of behaving contrary to his original style that his reverting has her confused? Despite the fact that she shows frustratation over Darcy's behavior, I get the feeling that it is just making her love for him greater.

P&P #11

"How Wickham and Lydia were to be supported in tolerable independence, she could not imagine. But how little of permanent happiness could belong to a couple who were only brought together because their passions were stronger than their virtue, she could easily conjecture"(Austen 237).

Elizabeth is still disgusted at the idea of Lydia and Mr. Wickham being together. While it is easy to see why she would be against such a thing, it seems to me that she is hoping for the worst. It is like her contempt for Mr. Wickham and her knowledge of Lydia's idiocy makes her want to see them crash and burn. I would not be surprised, as Elizabeth has shown in the past that she has desired certain people to remain intolerable(i.e. Darcy)

"but she, who never heard nor saw any thing of which she chose to be insensible, gaily continued, 'Oh! mamma, do the people here abouts know I am married to-day? I was afraid they might not'"(240)

This quote is interesting because its shows the characteristics of Lydia. While her behavior has been mentioned various times throughtout the novel, the reader does not see enough of her intereactions with other characters, and thus cannot determine whether or not the stories about her are exaggerated. It is this quote that confirms that Lydia is air-headed and longs for the spotlight. It makes me wonder if she knows what she is doing, and does it only to get attention.

P&P #10

"While thus engaged, Elizabeth had a fair opportunity of deciding whether she most feared or wished for the appearance of Mr. Darcy, by the feeling which prevailed on his entering the room; and then, though a moment before she believed her wishes to predominate, she began to regret that he came"(Austen 203)

Here, Elizabeth is excited to see Darcy, but she cannot decide what kind of excitement she is feeling. It is only when Darcy entered that she relized her excitement was based off fear of his arrival. Her feelings are comparable to those of a person ascending the lift of a rollercoaster. She is filled with suspense, but does not know whether it is of expectancy of a thrilling ride or fear of the drop. The only way to know is to experience it. Clearly, Elizabeth was not as ready as she thought she was.

"'Yes,' replied Darcy, who could contain himself no longer, 'but that was only when I first knew her, for it is many months since I have considered her as one of the handsomest women of my acquaintance"(205)

Earlier in the novel, Darcy descibed his greatest flaw as being that his good opinion, once lost, would be lost forever. Here Darcy shows behavior contradictary to that flaw, once again demonstrating how he has evolved throughout the novel. Also, the fact that he could not just sit there and listen as Caroline belittled Elizabeth shows that he has become more passionate, both in his feelings for Elizabeth and his skills of communication. It seems that at this point, Darcy is flawless.

P&P #9

"The possibility of meeting Mr. Darcy, while viewing the place, instantly occurred. It would be dreadful! She blushed at the very idea; and thought it would be better to speak openly to her aunt, than to run such a risk"(Austen 184)

I originally had two theories of how Elizabeth would want to deal with the Darcy situation. First, I thought she might be eager to meet with him so that she may repent for the way she treated him. My second theory was that she would want to avoid Darcy at all costs out of humiliation. This quote has confirmed the latter. It seems that while Elizabeth can admit her faults to herself, she has difficulty doing so in the presence of others. Darcy is above her in that respect.

"He absolutely started, and for a moment seemed immoveable from surprise; but shortly recovering himself, advanced towards the party, and spoke to Elizabeth, if not in terms of perfect composure, at least of perfect civility"(190)

This quote shows that Darcy has kept his characteristic of being initially awkward. However, the fact that he was able to recover himself so quickly shows that he has evolved since his introduction in the novel. He remains proper and civil, but also acts more sociable. He seems to be making strides in overcoming his faults.

P&P #8

"She grew absolutely ashamed of herself.-Of neither Darcy nor Wickham could she think, without feeling that she had been blind, partial, prejudiced, absurd"(Austen 159)

It is interesting how Elizabeth's views changed after reading Darcy's letter. Here she accuses herself of having the very qualities she had once seen in Mr. Darcy. She feels geniune shame after realizing where her prejudice had gotten her, and cannot think of anything else. Perhaps she will later appologize to Darcy for her accusations. I would not expect such behavior from Elizabeth at the beginning of the novel, but she has clearly eveolved into a different character.

"Mr. Darcy's letter, she was in a fair way of soon knowing by heart. She studied every sentence: and her feelings towards the writer were at times widely different. When she remembered the style of his address, she was full of indignation; but when she considered how unjustly she had condemned and upbraided him, her anger was turned against herself"(163)

Elizabeth seems to have become obsessed with Darcy's letter and has receded into a state of self-loathing. Since reading the letter, she's become very introspective, which is one of Darcy's most prominent characteristics. It appears that Darcy rubs off on her more and more with every action he does. With a mere letter, he was able to turn her from spiteful to remorseful. One can only wonder what would have happened had he verbally relayed his message

P&P #7

"Darcy smiled and said, 'You are perfectly right. You have employed your time much better. No one admitted to the privilege of hearing you, can think anything wanting. We neither of us perform to strangers'"(Austen 135).

This is the first time that Mr. Darcy outwardly admits to having anything in common with Elizabeth. What makes it even more unique is that it was said to Elizabeth, herself. Throughout the novel, both Darcy and Elizabeth seemed intent on arguing with each other, sticking to their individual arguments stubbornly. However, here Darcy not only agrees with Elizabeth, but also admits to her that she is right. It makes me wonder where the conversation would have gone had they not been interrupted.

"'What he told me was merely this; that he congratulated himself on having lately saved a friend from the inconveniences of a most imprudent marriage, but without mentioning names of any other particulars, and I only suspected it to be Bingley from believing him the kind of young man to get into a scrape of that sort, and from knowing them to have been together the whole of last summer"(142).

This quote is significant as it reveals the true reason behind Mr. Bingley's departure. What is interesting is that Elizabeth gained this information from Fitzwilliam, the cousin of Mr. Darcy. While I am almost positive that Fitzwilliam had no idea of why this revelation would be so disturbing to Elizabeth, it still makes little sense that he would bring it up without knowing the full story. It will be interesting to see if Darcy and Fitzwilliam will have an altercation over this later.

P&P #6

"'But that expression of 'violently in love' is so hackneyed, so doubtful, so indefinite, that it gives me very little idea. It is often applied to feelings which arise from an half-hour's acquaintance, as to a real, strong attachment'"(Austen 109).

This is an interesting quote, as the 'violence of love' has been mentioned in this novel before, and in the exact circumstance Miss Gardiner describes. It is strange that Elizabeth would use a phrase that was so lacklusterly used by Mr. Collins in his proposal to her, in the first place. Elizabeth's insistence that Bingley's love for Jane was 'violent' shows that perhaps she sees beyond the phrase and can identify the instances in which it is used properly.

'"I like her appearance," said Elizabeth, struck with other ideas. "She looks sickly and cross.-Yes, she will do for him very well. She will make him a very proper wife"'(122).

Here Elizabeth comes across as spiteful, although she may simply be expressing her disapproval of the relationship between Charlotte and Mr. Collins. Still, to take a shot at a close friend just to insult another is a bit low. I would like to think that her resentment is directed at the situation, and not the people involved. However, with Elizabeth, this is unlikely.

P&P 21-1

"'If we thought alike of Miss Bingley,' replied Jane, 'your representation of all this, might make me quite easy But I know the foundation is unjust. Caroline is incapable of willfully deceiving any one; and all that I can hope in this case is, that she is deceived herself'"(Austen 91)

Up until this point, Jane has come across as a hopeful optimist, seeing good in all people. However, he judgment of Caroline's character shows that she is truly blind. It is one thing to see good traits in people, but quite another to create good traits that do not exist in a person. I am confused as to what caused Jane to consider Caroline to be an honorable person. Since Jane is so close to Elizabeth, who has had many unpleasant conversations with Caroline, it makes no sense that Jane would not be aware of Caroline's true personality. Jane also contradicts herself. By believing that Caroline has been deceived by someone else, does not that mean Jane is admitting that some people are corrupt? It makes me wonder if Jane's personality is as genuine as she lets on.

"The stupidity with which he was favoured by nature, must guard his courtship from any charm that could make a woman wish for its continuance; And Miss Lucas, who accepted him solely from the pure and disinterested desire of an establishment, cared not how soon that establishment were gained".(93)

This is an example of mercenary love. Miss Lucas is only interested in marry Mr. Collins because in doing so, she would gain an establishment. Thus far, she has not come across as coniving or deceitful, and has a good relationship with Elizabeth. However, one must wonder what will happen when Mr. Bennet dies and his land goes to her and Mr. Collins. I doubt that she will force out Mrs. Bennet and her daughters, but it is still a possibility. It is unclear if her opinion of Elizabeth has any influence on her opinion of the Bennets.

P&P 17-20

"'He has been so unlucky as to lose your friendship,' replied Elizabeth with emphasis, 'and in a manner which he is likely to suffer from all his life.' Darcy made no answer, and seemed desirous of changing the subject."(70)

The fact that Darcy keeps silent after Elizabeth's comment shows that he was caught off guard by it. It seems he always has a reply prepared for everything, except in this instance. Perhaps the comment cut him deep. He may have some regrets of how he ended his relationship with Mr. Wickham. It could also be that he has no way of justifying what he did. I hope to soon know the reason behind his actions.

"I do assure you, Sir, that I have no pretension whatever to that kind of elegance which consists in tormenting a respectable man. I would rather be paid the compliment of being believed sincere. I thank you again and again for the honour you have done me in your proposals, but to accept them is absolutely impossible. My feelings in every respect forbid it. Can I speak plainer? Do not consider me now as an elegant female, intending to plague you, but as a rational creature, speaking the truth from her heart."(83)

Here Elizabeth shows that she is greatly annoyed with the advances of Mr. Collins, and shows her character to be contrary to the general stereotypes of a woman. While expressing her discomfort, she speaks bluntly, while still remaining as polite as possible. This shows her genuine courtesy and good manners. Her words stuck me as a bit odd, as I thought her the type of person to say what she wants when she wants. But now I suppose she saves such comments for those who she does not find respectable.

P&P 11-16

"'Yes, vanity is a weakness indeed. But pride-where there is a real superiority of mind, pride will always be under good regulation.'"(Austen 43)

Despite the obvious egotistical tone of this statement, there is some wisdom in it. If one's definition of pride relies on their intelligence and thoughtfulness, than it can be concidered pride well earned. Darcy may be critquing the behavior of those around him by pointing out his manner of behavior, considering himself rightly proud and all others foolishly vain. Pride does not seem the least bit dangerous to him so long as it is founded on his definition of "earned".

"'No,'"-said Darcy, "'I have made no such pretension. I have faults enough, but they are not, I hope, of understanding. My temper I dare not vouch for.-It is I believe too little yielding-certainly too little for the convenience of the world. I cannot forget the follies and vices of others so soon as I ought, nor their offences against myself. My feelings are not puffed about with every attempt to move them. My temper would perhaps be called resentful.-My good opinion once lost is lost forever.'"(43)

This quotation clearly shows that Mr. Darcy does not think himself to be flawless, and is well aware of his defect. He explains himself to have a personality matching a critic, which may mean that he has lead a boring life and must look to the world around him for little ways to amuse himself. While he admits this fault, it does not seem to shame him. It may be that he sees his personality as a rarity that should become a commodity among society.

P&P 7-10

"'Your picture may be very exact, Louisa,' said Bingley; "but this was all lost upon me. I thought Miss Elizabeth Bennet looked remarkably well, when she came into the room this morning. Her dirty petticoat quite escaped my notice.'"(Austen 26)

This quote shows a lot of Mr. Bingley's character. While he may have very well noticed Elizabeth's less-than-flattering condition, he does not speak ill of her. I find this remarkable because his sisters were quick to attack her, and despite being male(which in this novel is often said to be rightly proud for what they will gain), he remains polite, even when Elizabeth is not there to hear his words. It seems Bingley and Jane have much in common already.

"'Nothing is more deceitful,' said Darcy, 'than the appearance of humility. It is often only carelessness of opinion, and sometimes an indirect boast'"(34)

Darcy's insight is shown here, as he is able to recognize those who fein humility in a town of the proud. He explains that those who seem humble are often only acting in that manner to make themselves appear above everyone else. It seem Darcy prefers those who admit to their pride over those who pretend to be humble. It makes me wonder if Darcy's feelings on the subject come stem from something within himself.