A. Synopsis of the Novel: Pride and Prejudice
Pride and Prejudice is a story about a mother trying to marry off her five daughters. The Bennet's are not rich and have no inheritance. Only the wealthiest men will do. The story focuses on the two eldest daughters, Jane and Elizabeth. It starts out about a Mr. Bingley who has come to live near the Bennets. Mrs. Bennet sees him as the perfect match for one of her girls. The family first becomes acquainted with Mr. Bingley at the Meryton Ball. There, the family also meets Mr. Darcy. Mr. Darcy is very proud and arrogant and especially snubs Elizabeth at the ball. Everyone notices that Jane and Mr. Bingley see to have feelings for each other. About this time, Mr. Darcy starts to admire Elizabeth more. Jane is invited to Netherfield for dinner with the Bingleys. Her mother tells her to go on horseback because it looks like rain and then she would have to spend the night.
Jane Austen, Watercolour and pencil portrait by he...
English: Back View of Jane Austen, Watercolor
English: Français : Une gravure de 1833 illustran...Jane gets caught in the rain and falls ill. Upon hearing of her sister's illness, Elizabeth walks to Netherfield to nurse her sister. She arrives muddy and Mr. Bingley's sisters are horrified that she walked the entire distance. While Elizabeth is there, Mr. Darcy becomes more enamored with her. She, however, still thinks of him as very proud and arrogant. After Jane recovers, she returns home with Elizabeth. Mr. Collins, a cousin of Mr. Bennet, comes to visit, hoping to marry one of the daughters. When the Bennet daughters go to town, they are introduced to Mr. Wickham. He starts to show feelings towards Elizabeth. The next day Mr. Collins proposes to Elizabeth. She refuses and after awhile, Mr. Collins goes to Charlotte Lucas, Elizabeth's friend, and she accepts his proposal.