Elizabeth and Wickham talk of Darcy's pride. (Chapter XVI)
Wickham:
"- for almost all his actions may be traced to
pride; -and pride has often been his best friend. It has connected him nearer
with virtue than any other feeling. But we are none of us consistent; and in
his behaviour to me, there were no stronger impulses even than
pride"
Elizabeth:
“Can such abominable pride as his have
ever done him good?”
Wickham:
“Yes. It has often led him to be liberal
and generous,- to give his money freely, to display hospitality, to assist his
tenants, and relieve the poor. Family pride, and filial pride, for he is very
proud of what his father was, have done this. Not to appear to disgrace his
family, to degenerate from the popular qualities, or to lose the influence of
the Pemberley House, is a powerful motive. He has also brotherly pride, which
with some brotherly affection, makes him a very kind and careful guardian of
his sister; and you will hear him generally cried up as the most attentive and
best of brothers.”
(Pride and Prejudice. – Jane Austen)
When
you read this book, forget not its title.
For
every good author ensures that the title relates to the core of the book.
Thus,
look out for the many colours and faces of Pride and Prejudice throughout the
book.
The
greatest of authors also write in a fashion that allows the reader to feel the
emotions of the characters.
I
KNOW Jane Austen was a GREAT author.
I
see the many shades of pride unfolding… I expect to develop a prejudice against
Darcy, and some other characters in a few more chapters. And as the book goes
on, I also expect to be prejudiced against Elizabeth.
We’ll
see how well I know Jane Austen’s style.
