Being Knighted . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://api.ning.com/files/K5- L6xdAaUzQqCXzTILusirmCTQlCQtwj- RfiUQXtvb8w4lxkdmDB7WzEWkalro0F7TlCdsDwrWzCtfoQ8-2xEMUL- LKmghf/TeamOGearBeingKnighted.jpg.
Clergyman . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://barrymichaels.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/seelosseatedbrievary.jpg.
Judge . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.defreitasbooks.com/bookwebpics/picsVanity/AtoK/VPBramwell.jpg.
The Lakes District . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.britishandirishwalks.com/media/siteImages/gallery_images/LakeDistrict.jpg.
19th Century Dance. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.victoriana.com/Etiquette/
images/dancecouple5.jpg.
19th Century Medical Procedure . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.uh.edu/engines/medexpt.jpg.
Pianoforte . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://ellenandjim.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/pianoforte1.jpg.
Twelfth Night . Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Orsino_and_viola_Frederick_Richard_Pickersgill.jpg.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Works Cited - Pride and Prejudice
"Biography: Alexander Chalmers on Rev. James Fordyce." English Poetry 1579-1830. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://spenserians.cath.vt.edu/BiographyRecord.php?action=GET&bioid=4587.
"A History of Education." A World History Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/education.html.
"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.
"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.
"History of Lake District Tourism." Free Articles Directory | Submit Articles - ArticlesBase.com. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/history-of-lake-district-tourism-534844.html.
"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.
"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.
"La Boulangere Dance - Streetswings Dance History Archives - Main Page." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3laboulngr.htm.
"Marriage in the Victorian Era." College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Florida. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/agunn/teaching/enl3251/vf/pres/ziegenfuss.htm.
"Medical Developments In Britain During The Nineteenth Century." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/science/health/health12.html.
"19th Century Music." Free Website Hosting Angelfire Free Website Templates to Make Your Own Free Website. Web. 09 Mar. 2010..
"PROPERTY RIGHTS OF WOMEN." UM-Dearborn Home: University of Michigan-Dearborn. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/geweb/PROPERTY.htm.
"Twelfth Night Synopsis." Shakespeare Resource Center. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.bardweb.net/plays/twelfthnight.html.
"Victorian England." Department of English, UW Oshkosh. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.english.uwosh.edu/roth/VictorianEngland.htm.
"Victorian Occupations: Life and Labor in the Victorian Period as Seen by Artists, Writers, and Modern Historians." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/history/work/workov.html.
"Women's Status in mid 19th-century England." Lycos Tripod - Multimania. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://members.multimania.co.uk/HastingsHistory/19/overview.htm.
"A History of Education." A World History Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/education.html.
"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.
"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.
"History of Lake District Tourism." Free Articles Directory | Submit Articles - ArticlesBase.com. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/history-of-lake-district-tourism-534844.html.
"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.
"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.
"La Boulangere Dance - Streetswings Dance History Archives - Main Page." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3laboulngr.htm.
"Marriage in the Victorian Era." College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Florida. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/agunn/teaching/enl3251/vf/pres/ziegenfuss.htm.
"Medical Developments In Britain During The Nineteenth Century." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/science/health/health12.html.
"19th Century Music." Free Website Hosting Angelfire Free Website Templates to Make Your Own Free Website. Web. 09 Mar. 2010.
"PROPERTY RIGHTS OF WOMEN." UM-Dearborn Home: University of Michigan-Dearborn. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/geweb/PROPERTY.htm.
"Twelfth Night Synopsis." Shakespeare Resource Center. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.bardweb.net/plays/twelfthnight.html.
"Victorian England." Department of English, UW Oshkosh. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.english.uwosh.edu/roth/VictorianEngland.htm.
"Victorian Occupations: Life and Labor in the Victorian Period as Seen by Artists, Writers, and Modern Historians." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/history/work/workov.html.
"Women's Status in mid 19th-century England." Lycos Tripod - Multimania. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://members.multimania.co.uk/HastingsHistory/19/overview.htm.
Lydia ~ Family Rivalry
“‘Ah! Jane, I take your place now, and you must go lower, because I am a married woman.’” (Page 300)
This quote serves multiple purposes. The first is to give some insight into women’s status during the 19th century. Unlike today, women had very few rights. Unable to truly establish themselves in society, they had little to do but get married and have children. Once married, women practically belonged to their husbands. Looking back on this time period, it seems odd that a girl would willingly let her life be controlled by her husband. Perhaps this is why Jane Austen chose never to marry. Another purpose of this quote is to show directly what type of character Lydia is; she is an immature and selfish girl who doesn’t think before she acts. In addition to this, Jane Austen includes this quote to show the commonality of family rivalry. During the 1800s, families were usually large and children were often close in age. As a result, it was ordinary for there to be frivolous bouts between siblings.
"Women's Status in mid 19th-century England." Lycos Tripod - Multimania. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://members.multimania.co.uk/HastingsHistory/19/overview.htm.
This quote serves multiple purposes. The first is to give some insight into women’s status during the 19th century. Unlike today, women had very few rights. Unable to truly establish themselves in society, they had little to do but get married and have children. Once married, women practically belonged to their husbands. Looking back on this time period, it seems odd that a girl would willingly let her life be controlled by her husband. Perhaps this is why Jane Austen chose never to marry. Another purpose of this quote is to show directly what type of character Lydia is; she is an immature and selfish girl who doesn’t think before she acts. In addition to this, Jane Austen includes this quote to show the commonality of family rivalry. During the 1800s, families were usually large and children were often close in age. As a result, it was ordinary for there to be frivolous bouts between siblings.
"Women's Status in mid 19th-century England." Lycos Tripod - Multimania. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://members.multimania.co.uk/HastingsHistory/19/overview.htm.
Marriage
“Her father, captivated by youth and beauty, and that appearance of good humor which youth and beauty generally give, had married a woman whose weak understanding and illiberal mind had, very early in their marriage, put an end to all real affection for her. Respect, esteem, and confidence had vanished forever, and all his views of domestic happiness were overthrown.” (Page 228)
Marriage, during the Victorian era, was far less romanticized than it is today. In most cases, love was considered unimportant. Marriages were often handled as though they were business deals, and as a result, relationships were more about friendship than intimacy. In Victorian society, there were also several guidelines to marriage. One of the most prominent rules was that people were encouraged to marry within their social class. It was generally frowned upon to marry a person from a lower class. Austen gives this information to show what was common for the time period. She uses Mr. Bennet as an example of a person marrying someone within their own class. She also uses him to show that even though a couple may not be completely in love, they can still be mutually content. This connects to Elizabeth and Darcy as well. Elizabeth begins with a negative outlook on Darcy, but she manages, in the end, to like and accept him. Their relationship essentially contradicts the social norm. Darcy chooses to marry someone below him, and their union has more to do with the affection they have for one another.
"Marriage in the Victorian Era." College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Florida. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/agunn/teaching/enl3251/vf/pres/ziegenfuss.htm.
Marriage, during the Victorian era, was far less romanticized than it is today. In most cases, love was considered unimportant. Marriages were often handled as though they were business deals, and as a result, relationships were more about friendship than intimacy. In Victorian society, there were also several guidelines to marriage. One of the most prominent rules was that people were encouraged to marry within their social class. It was generally frowned upon to marry a person from a lower class. Austen gives this information to show what was common for the time period. She uses Mr. Bennet as an example of a person marrying someone within their own class. She also uses him to show that even though a couple may not be completely in love, they can still be mutually content. This connects to Elizabeth and Darcy as well. Elizabeth begins with a negative outlook on Darcy, but she manages, in the end, to like and accept him. Their relationship essentially contradicts the social norm. Darcy chooses to marry someone below him, and their union has more to do with the affection they have for one another.
"Marriage in the Victorian Era." College of Liberal Arts and Sciences | The University of Florida. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.clas.ufl.edu/users/agunn/teaching/enl3251/vf/pres/ziegenfuss.htm.
Music
“‘Of music! Then pray speak aloud. It is of all subjects my delight.’” (Page 169)
Music was a very important part of nineteenth century culture. Along with theater, it was one the Victorian era’s chief forms of entertainment. The most popular styles of music included classical, orchestral music and folk music. Famous composers such as Johannes Brahms and Frederic Chopin flourished during this time period creating elegant waltzes and ballads. Much like today, music was incorporated into Victorian’s daily lives - at social gatherings and in their teachings. Austen references music because of how widespread it was during her time and because it had a profound effect on the general population. Austen mentions music several times throughout the novel to show how natural it is, not only to be familiar with it, but how to play it as well. This reflects Austen’s own life; throughout her childhood and adulthood, Jane Austen learned and practiced the pianoforte.
"19th Century Music." Free Website Hosting Angelfire Free Website Templates to Make Your Own Free Website. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.angelfire.com/ar3/townevictorian/victorianmusic.html.
"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.
Pianoforte. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://ellenandjim.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/pianoforte1.jpg.
Elizabeth and Darcy
“‘She looks sickly and cross.--Yes, she will do for him very well. She will make him a very proper wife.’” (Page 156)
This excerpt is key in showing how Elizabeth’s view toward Mr. Darcy has changed since their initial meeting. Throughout the novel, her attitude fluctuates. She goes from being intrigued by Darcy’s mysterious nature, to finding him detestable, to falling in love with him. Though she cannot seem to make up her mind, one thing is certain; she cannot prevent herself from thinking of him. From this, the reader observes that she is stern in her beliefs, yet biased (she likes him, but she doesn’t). I personally believe that Austen includes this remark in order to incorporate a little humor, not only into the novel, but into the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy. If this quote were not in the context that it is in, one would think that the speaker truly despised the person they were referring to. However, knowing that Elizabeth is speaking of Darcy, it seems to hold less weight. In fact, it seems that Elizabeth could be making this negative comment in order to avoid thinking of Darcy in a positive way.
This excerpt is key in showing how Elizabeth’s view toward Mr. Darcy has changed since their initial meeting. Throughout the novel, her attitude fluctuates. She goes from being intrigued by Darcy’s mysterious nature, to finding him detestable, to falling in love with him. Though she cannot seem to make up her mind, one thing is certain; she cannot prevent herself from thinking of him. From this, the reader observes that she is stern in her beliefs, yet biased (she likes him, but she doesn’t). I personally believe that Austen includes this remark in order to incorporate a little humor, not only into the novel, but into the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy. If this quote were not in the context that it is in, one would think that the speaker truly despised the person they were referring to. However, knowing that Elizabeth is speaking of Darcy, it seems to hold less weight. In fact, it seems that Elizabeth could be making this negative comment in order to avoid thinking of Darcy in a positive way.
The Lakes District
“‘We have not quite determined how far it shall carry us,’ said Mrs. Gardiner, ‘but perhaps to the Lakes.’” (Page 152)
The Lakes District is located in the mountainous region of northwestern England. For centuries this area has been a popular holiday destination. The region is steeped in history and is renowned for its stunning landscapes. During the 19th century, the Lakes District’s beautiful environment provided such poets as William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey with the inspiration for some of their most famous works. Jane Austen references this picturesque area due to its cultural significance. Rather than travelling overseas, as is more common nowadays, people often retreated into the country when they went on holiday. Because transportation was not as advanced, though, travelling from Hertfordshire to the Lakes District would have been considered an extensive distance.
"History of Lake District Tourism." Free Articles Directory | Submit Articles - ArticlesBase.com. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/history-of-lake-district-tourism-534844.html.
The Lakes District. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.britishandirishwalks.com/media/siteImages/gallery_images/LakeDistrict.jpg.
Knighthood
“He could tell her nothing new of the wonders of his presentation and knighthood...” (Page 150)
In earlier times, being knighted was a considerable honor that meant far more than adorning one’s name with “sir”. In Great Britain, a person was often knighted if he demonstrated the ideal virtues of honor, chivalry, justice and compassion. Monarchs bestowed this honor on those who contributed in some way to the British Empire. Although it was not very easy, being knighted was one way a person could achieve nobility. It is interesting that Elizabeth finds Sir William Lucas the least bit engaging. One would expect that a person of such high nobility would be intriguing and not nearly as boring as Elizabeth seems to believe. Even though this could just be due to her familiarity with the knight, Austen may have included it for satirical purposes. This novel focuses primarily on the upper class, and it also emphasizes how a person’s reputation is key to their success. This excerpt contradicts this concept. By being uninterested in Lucas’ nobility, Elizabeth is, in a sense, ridiculing the upper class.
"History of Knighthood." Clan Lord. Web. 10 Mar. 2010. http://www.clanlord.com/history/humans/knighthood.html.
Being Knighted. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://api.ning.com/files/K5-L6xdAaUzQqCXzTILusirmCTQlCQtwj-RfiUQXtvb8w4lxkdmDB7WzEWkalro0F7TlCdsDwrWzCtfoQ8-2xEMUL-LKmghf/TeamOGearBeingKnighted.jpg.
Fordyce’s Sermons
“...after some deliberation he chose Fordyce’s Sermons.” (Page 67)
Fordyce’s Sermons, also know as Sermons to Young Women, was the most famous publication of Scottish clergyman Dr. James Fordyce. The book which was published in 1766 was a compilation of sermons that focused on women’s conduct. The book, being a collection of Fordyce’s personal opinions on how women should act and be treated, is considered to be extremely bias and demeaning to women. Following its publication, women began garnering social and political rights, and thus it quickly became outdated. Austen purposely has Mr. Collins choose this novel to read aloud in order to develop his character as being dimwitted, not very keen to his actions, and demoralizing. Among his many faults (his incessant talking about topics the Bennets find little intereset in, for one) this choice of reading material certainly does not help him in wooing Elizabeth.
"Biography: Alexander Chalmers on Rev. James Fordyce." English Poetry 1579-1830. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://spenserians.cath.vt.edu/BiographyRecord.php?action=GET&bioid=4587.
Fordyce’s Sermons, also know as Sermons to Young Women, was the most famous publication of Scottish clergyman Dr. James Fordyce. The book which was published in 1766 was a compilation of sermons that focused on women’s conduct. The book, being a collection of Fordyce’s personal opinions on how women should act and be treated, is considered to be extremely bias and demeaning to women. Following its publication, women began garnering social and political rights, and thus it quickly became outdated. Austen purposely has Mr. Collins choose this novel to read aloud in order to develop his character as being dimwitted, not very keen to his actions, and demoralizing. Among his many faults (his incessant talking about topics the Bennets find little intereset in, for one) this choice of reading material certainly does not help him in wooing Elizabeth.
"Biography: Alexander Chalmers on Rev. James Fordyce." English Poetry 1579-1830. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://spenserians.cath.vt.edu/BiographyRecord.php?action=GET&bioid=4587.
The Food of Love
“I have been used to consider poetry as the food of love,” said Darcy.” (Page 44)
“The food of love” is an allusion to a line from William Shakespeare’s play, Twelfth Night. This particular comedy includes the major theme of mistaken identity. In the play, the female protagonist, Viola, disguises herself as a man. In doing so, she becomes involved in a love triangle between her master, Duke Orsino, and his love interest, Olivia. Because, in the Duke’s eyes, Viola is a man, he only sees her for her outward appearance. Elizabeth views Darcy in a similar fashion. Rather than seeing his true, compassionate self, Elizabeth only sees the egotistical air that Darcy outwardly displays. Austen makes this reference in order to point out that first impressions are often false. This novel is filled with instances where certain characters are misled by first impressions. First impressions are so heavily emphasized throughout the story that Jane Austen even considered naming the book First Impressions rather than Pride and Prejudice.
"Twelfth Night Synopsis." Shakespeare Resource Center. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.bardweb.net/plays/twelfthnight.html.
Twelfth Night. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/21/Orsino_and_viola_Frederick_Richard_Pickersgill.jpg.
Health
“‘She is a great deal too ill to be moved. Mr. Jones says we must not think of moving her.’” (Page 41)
People of the Victorian era were very concerned with their health. Sicknesses such as the common cold or influenza were of a much more serious nature than they are now. Because there had been few advancements made in medicine, little could be done when one took ill. In addition to limited medical developments, few doctors were adequately educated and thus were often not competent enough to give accurate diagnoses. Austen demonstrates the vitality of being healthy through her depiction of Jane’s illness. Although, to the reader, it is clear that Jane is suffering from a simple cold and fever, the entire affair is made out to be more severe than it actually is. Rather than returning home, which is only three miles away, Jane is advised to stay put at Netherfield. This portion of the novel alludes to when Jane Austen caught typhus fever when she was a young girl. Similarly as with Jane, great care was taken to keep her whilst she suffered from the dangerous illness.
"Medical Developments In Britain During The Nineteenth Century." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/science/health/health12.html.
"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.
19th Century Medical Procedure. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.uh.edu/engines/medexpt.jpg.
Family and Relationships
“Elizabeth, feeling really anxious, was determined to go to her, though the carriage was not to be had; and as she was no horse-woman, walking was her only alternative.” (Page 32)
Out of the many themes displayed in this novel, one of the most significant is the importance of family and relationships. Above any other pair of individuals within the book, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are by far the closest. Being the oldest and most respected of the Bennet daughters, it is clear that they have a very unique bond. It is apparent that they are more than just sisters, but best friends. Unlike their other sisters, they are intellectual and down to earth. Their similar qualities and their deep caring for one another causes their relationship to rival any other in the novel (Bingley’s and Darcy’s, Kitty’s and Lydia’s, etc.). This relationship is a direct allusion to Jane Austen’s own relationship with her sister Cassandra. Because Jane Austen had six brothers, she became incredibly close with her only sister. It is extremely likely that Austen modeled the character Jane after her sister because, like Jane toward Elizabeth, Cassandra was Jane’s confidante.
"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.
Out of the many themes displayed in this novel, one of the most significant is the importance of family and relationships. Above any other pair of individuals within the book, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet are by far the closest. Being the oldest and most respected of the Bennet daughters, it is clear that they have a very unique bond. It is apparent that they are more than just sisters, but best friends. Unlike their other sisters, they are intellectual and down to earth. Their similar qualities and their deep caring for one another causes their relationship to rival any other in the novel (Bingley’s and Darcy’s, Kitty’s and Lydia’s, etc.). This relationship is a direct allusion to Jane Austen’s own relationship with her sister Cassandra. Because Jane Austen had six brothers, she became incredibly close with her only sister. It is extremely likely that Austen modeled the character Jane after her sister because, like Jane toward Elizabeth, Cassandra was Jane’s confidante.
"Jane Austen Biography." Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Novels, Movies, Quotes and Fashions. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.janeausten.org/jane-austen-biography.asp.
Respectable Professions
“Her father had been an attorney...She had a sister married to a Mr. Philips, who had been a clerk to their father, and succeeded him in the business, and a brother settled in London in a respectable line of trade.” (Page 29)
During the Victorian era, people were divided into classes chiefly by what types of occupations they had and their consequential incomes. Although many employed themselves as craftsmen and farmers, the most respectable (and often most highly paid) professions included judges, lawyers, and clergymen. In this novel, the reader becomes familiar generally with the upper class. Jane Austen was considered part of the gentry during her time period; her family was not of the highest social class but it was relatively well-to-do. With this in mind, it seems fitting that Austen would be able to write so easily about people with higher quality reputations. Although this particular excerpt discusses Mrs. Bennet’s background, it is key in demonstrating the importance of reputation. There are countless instances throughout the novel where reputation and class affect how people interact with one another (specifically Darcy toward Elizabeth).
"Victorian Occupations: Life and Labor in the Victorian Period as Seen by Artists, Writers, and Modern Historians." The Victorian Web: An Overview. Web. 09 Mar. 2010. http://www.victorianweb.org/history/work/workov.html.
Judge. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.defreitasbooks.com/bookwebpics/picsVanity/AtoK/VPBramwell.jpg.
Clergyman. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://barrymichaels.files.wordpress.com/2009/05/seelosseatedbrievary.jpg.
Inheritance
“Mr. Bennet’s property...was entailed in default of heirs male...” (Page 29)
During the nineteenth century, women had little to no rights in the owning of property. Although it was possible for a woman to inherit land from her father, it was very rare. It was more common for a father to pass his property onto his son. In the case of their being no male descendant, property was often passed onto the closest male relative. If a female was to inherit land, it was often in the form of “personal property” which was essentially leased land or land governed by a lord. Males usually received what was referred to as “real property” which was actual land that they had control over. Being from this time period, Jane Austen probably alluded to this political and social affair merely because it was the natural ordinance of inheritance. In addition to this, it is clear that she mentions this in order to introduce Mr. Collins, the heir of Mr. Bennet’s property.
"PROPERTY RIGHTS OF WOMEN." UM-Dearborn Home: University of Michigan-Dearborn. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/geweb/PROPERTY.htm.
During the nineteenth century, women had little to no rights in the owning of property. Although it was possible for a woman to inherit land from her father, it was very rare. It was more common for a father to pass his property onto his son. In the case of their being no male descendant, property was often passed onto the closest male relative. If a female was to inherit land, it was often in the form of “personal property” which was essentially leased land or land governed by a lord. Males usually received what was referred to as “real property” which was actual land that they had control over. Being from this time period, Jane Austen probably alluded to this political and social affair merely because it was the natural ordinance of inheritance. In addition to this, it is clear that she mentions this in order to introduce Mr. Collins, the heir of Mr. Bennet’s property.
"PROPERTY RIGHTS OF WOMEN." UM-Dearborn Home: University of Michigan-Dearborn. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.umd.umich.edu/casl/hum/eng/classes/434/geweb/PROPERTY.htm.
Pride
“‘...I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.’” (Page 21)
As would be expected, due to the title, one of the most important themes that Jane Austen employs in this novel is pride. From the interactions between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, the reader observes that both characters are prideful. The pride that each of these characters holds is not exhibited in a subtle way. From the very start Elizabeth allows her pride to hinder herself from seeing past Darcy’s cold demeanor. Likewise, Darcy’s pride hinders him from seeing Elizabeth as an equal. Rather than seeing each other, at first, for who they truly are, they put on a sort of impenetrable front. Because Austen characterizes Elizabeth and Darcy as being overly prideful, she enables another principal theme to come into play, prejudice. This impenetrable front (established from being prideful) leads to a person making bias judgments and irrational decisions.
As would be expected, due to the title, one of the most important themes that Jane Austen employs in this novel is pride. From the interactions between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, the reader observes that both characters are prideful. The pride that each of these characters holds is not exhibited in a subtle way. From the very start Elizabeth allows her pride to hinder herself from seeing past Darcy’s cold demeanor. Likewise, Darcy’s pride hinders him from seeing Elizabeth as an equal. Rather than seeing each other, at first, for who they truly are, they put on a sort of impenetrable front. Because Austen characterizes Elizabeth and Darcy as being overly prideful, she enables another principal theme to come into play, prejudice. This impenetrable front (established from being prideful) leads to a person making bias judgments and irrational decisions.
Education
“They...had been educated in one of the first private seminaries in town.” (Page 17)
Seminaries are boarding schools that provide higher education for young women. Beginning in as early as the seventeenth century, boarding schools of this kind were founded in many towns throughout Great Britain. Although they proliferated over the course of two centuries, many were unable to afford sending their children to attend these schools. Instead, middle class children were often taught by their parents. Girls were usually taught the fundamental skills of being housewives. The children of the upper class were able to attend boarding schools. As an alternative to being sent to a seminary, upper class girls were also instructed by governesses. These privileged young women were commonly taught reading, writing, arithmetic, foreign language, and music. Austen includes this information in order to characterize the Bingley sisters as being respectable and simultaneously conceited. Most during this time period did not have the opportunity to acquire a decent education, and thus felt crossly about those who did. Having experienced both an education at home and at a boarding school, Jane Austen was likely familiar with those who, due to their high education and wealth, believed themselves “entitled to think well of themselves, and meanly of others.”
"A History of Education." A World History Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/education.html.
"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.
Seminaries are boarding schools that provide higher education for young women. Beginning in as early as the seventeenth century, boarding schools of this kind were founded in many towns throughout Great Britain. Although they proliferated over the course of two centuries, many were unable to afford sending their children to attend these schools. Instead, middle class children were often taught by their parents. Girls were usually taught the fundamental skills of being housewives. The children of the upper class were able to attend boarding schools. As an alternative to being sent to a seminary, upper class girls were also instructed by governesses. These privileged young women were commonly taught reading, writing, arithmetic, foreign language, and music. Austen includes this information in order to characterize the Bingley sisters as being respectable and simultaneously conceited. Most during this time period did not have the opportunity to acquire a decent education, and thus felt crossly about those who did. Having experienced both an education at home and at a boarding school, Jane Austen was likely familiar with those who, due to their high education and wealth, believed themselves “entitled to think well of themselves, and meanly of others.”
"A History of Education." A World History Encyclopedia. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.localhistories.org/education.html.
"Jane Austen." Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://hermes.hrc.ntu.edu.tw/lctd/asp/authors/00177/introduction.htm.
The Boulanger
“...the Boulanger.” (Page 15)
The Boulanger, or “La Boulangère” as it is known in French, was a common dance performed at social gatherings during the nineteenth century. It was tradition for this dance to come at the end of a ball. The dance consisted of gentlemen and their partners gathered in a circle. Couples would dance concentrically in one direction then return to their original places. Following this motion, the gentlemen would spin their partner then move on to their neighbors. When the gentlemen made their way around the circle, the entire dance would repeat. Austen includes this dance simply because of its cultural context. Dancing was one of the most common forms of entertainment during this time period, and it was the socially accepted thing to do. As Austen demonstrates, dancing provided the opportunity for many to interact as well as to show a person’s character; Bingley is perceived as amiable because of his participation where as Mr. Darcy is looked down upon due to his lack of interest.
"La Boulangere Dance - Streetswings Dance History Archives - Main Page." Sonny Watson's West Coast Swing Dance - Streetswings Homepage. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.streetswing.com/histmain/z3laboulngr.htm.
19th Century Dance. Digital image. Web. 11 Mar. 2010. http://www.victoriana.com/Etiquette/images/dancecouple5.jpg.
Money
“...the report which was in general circulation within five minutes after his entrance, of his having ten thousand a year.” (Page 12)
During the early eighteen hundreds, it was somewhat uncommon to meet anyone with an annual income of ten thousand pounds or more. The individuals who made this type of money often assumed the professions of merchants, bankers, or aristocrats. The middle class during this time period, which consisted of such professions as doctors and clerks, generally made three hundred to eight hundred pounds per year. Austen describes the Bennet family as being sufficiently wealthy considering that they have an estate of two thousand pounds a year. This, by no means, classifies them as being part of the upper class, but it enables them to be on similar terms as those who have a higher income. By mentioning his estate, Austen immediately classifies Mr. Darcy as being part of the upper class. This, in turn, gives the reader an idea of what type of personality Mr. Darcy has; one of nobility and conceit. From this information, the reader can also conclude that the difference in wealth between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth may affect how they interact. Mr. Darcy’s wealth and consequential air certainly does not aid Elizabeth in making a first impression.
"Victorian England." Department of English, UW Oshkosh. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.english.uwosh.edu/roth/VictorianEngland.htm.
During the early eighteen hundreds, it was somewhat uncommon to meet anyone with an annual income of ten thousand pounds or more. The individuals who made this type of money often assumed the professions of merchants, bankers, or aristocrats. The middle class during this time period, which consisted of such professions as doctors and clerks, generally made three hundred to eight hundred pounds per year. Austen describes the Bennet family as being sufficiently wealthy considering that they have an estate of two thousand pounds a year. This, by no means, classifies them as being part of the upper class, but it enables them to be on similar terms as those who have a higher income. By mentioning his estate, Austen immediately classifies Mr. Darcy as being part of the upper class. This, in turn, gives the reader an idea of what type of personality Mr. Darcy has; one of nobility and conceit. From this information, the reader can also conclude that the difference in wealth between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth may affect how they interact. Mr. Darcy’s wealth and consequential air certainly does not aid Elizabeth in making a first impression.
"Victorian England." Department of English, UW Oshkosh. Web. 08 Mar. 2010. http://www.english.uwosh.edu/roth/VictorianEngland.htm.
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