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.