Chapters 18-23

For discussion related to Chapters 18-23

Interestingly enough Mr. Collins is from a lower class and doesn't know how to handle dealing with the proper etiquette of proposal. He asks Elizabeth and, of course, is turned down a few times. He just doesn't get it. He then asks Charlotte and she accepts. Charlotte is willing to give her pride up to have a "comfortable" home for the rest of her life. Elizabeth is not willing to give this up. She doesn't want anything to do with Mr. Collins.

I'm beginning to think that Elizabeth's character is the strongest of them all and will in the future find happiness with Darcy, who is a strong man also. Elizabeth is getting more and more upset with her whole family regarding their manners.

Miss Bingsley is an imp. She is just starting trouble by implying that Darcy has eyes for her. These woman are rude in any time period.

It is a shame that it is still being observed. I think now a days the middle class is probably the most flexible in our society. I wonder if the European society still keeps up these traditions.

The fact that Charlotte would choose someone as insipid as Mr. Collins in trade for security is disgusting but it is instilled in women to this day. Think of the women who will marry men 3 time thier age for money and power. It wa probably really something to read this book in austens day and have a character as strong as Elizabeth. I bet men were scandalized and at least a few women secretly admired her, though there would have been a good few who would not have seen her point. If Elizabeth gets Darcy and her turns out to be wonderful, then 'a happy ending' she got her cake and the frosting too.
I find Mr. collins absolutley disgusting. He actually spend time formatting compliments in his mind to pave the way for his gratuitiousness. YUCK

I think you are right Kelley. This book was published after her death.

There are a lot of sequels to this book too. None by Austen, of course.