Social class is one of the central themes in Jane Austen’s novel Pride and Prejudice, and it affects the behavior and choices of many of the characters. The novel portrays the society of late 18th century England where class distinctions were rigidly enforced, and social mobility was limited. The following is an analysis of how social class affects the characters’ behavior and choices in Pride and Prejudice.
Social class affects the way characters perceive each other. The novel presents a clear hierarchy in which the landed gentry are at the top and the lower gentry below them. The wealthy and well-connected families such as the Bingleys and the Darcys are considered to be the most desirable marriage partners, and characters from lower classes such as the Bennets are often looked down upon. This is evident in the character of Mr. Collins, who despite being a distant relative of the Bennets, considers himself to be of a higher social standing than them and often patronizes them. Similarly, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who belongs to the upper class, is quick to remind Elizabeth Bennet of her inferior social status and tries to prevent her from marrying Mr. Darcy.
Social class also affects the characters’ behavior towards each other. Characters belonging to different social classes often behave in a condescending or patronizing manner towards those who are of a lower social standing. For example, Mr. Collins’ behavior towards the Bennet family is often patronizing, while the Bingley sisters’ behavior towards Jane and Elizabeth is condescending. The behavior of Lady Catherine de Bourgh towards Elizabeth is particularly disdainful, with Lady Catherine frequently commenting on Elizabeth’s lack of fortune and social standing.
Social class further affects the choices characters make in terms of marriage. Marriage in Georgian England was seen as a way to secure social and financial status, and it was generally frowned upon to marry below one’s social standing. This is evident in the novel through the character of Charlotte Lucas, who marries Mr. Collins despite his unpleasant personality and lack of charm, solely for financial security. Similarly, Mr. Darcy initially opposes his friend Mr. Bingley’s relationship with Jane Bennet, whom he considers to be below his friend’s social standing.
Social class additionally affects the way characters view themselves and their own self-worth. Characters belonging to the lower gentry class such as the Bennets are often made to feel inferior to those belonging to the upper classes. This is evident in the character of Elizabeth Bennet, who initially believes that she is not good enough for Mr. Darcy due to her inferior social standing. Similarly, Mr. Bennet often laments the fact that he does not have a male heir, which he believes would elevate his social standing.
Characters who belong to the upper class often have a strong sense of their own importance and believe that they are entitled to certain privileges and respect. This is evident in the character of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who expects everyone to defer to her and is quick to remind others of her social status. Similarly, Mr. Collins believes that his social standing makes him superior to others and behaves accordingly.
Another observation is that social class also affects the characters’ aspirations and ambitions. Characters who belong to the lower gentry class such as the Bennets often have limited opportunities for social advancement and are often resigned to their lot in life. This is evident in the character of Mrs. Bennet, who is obsessed with marrying her daughters off to wealthy men in order to secure their financial security. In contrast, characters from the upper classes such as Mr. Darcy have more opportunities to advance socially and financially, and are often more ambitious in their pursuits.
It is important to note that social class is not just a matter of wealth, but also of manners and education. Characters who belong to the upper class are expected to have refined manners, a good education, and a certain level of sophistication. This is evident in the character of Mr. Darcy, who is highly educated, well-read, and has impeccable manners. In contrast, characters from lower classes such as the Bennets are often portrayed as lacking in refinement and education, and are sometimes ridiculed for their behavior.
Finally, it is important to note that social class is not the only factor that influences characters’ behavior and choices in the novel. Personal values such as kindness, generosity, and honesty also play a significant role in shaping characters’ actions and decisions. This is evident in the character of Elizabeth Bennet, who is not swayed by Mr. Darcy’s wealth and social status but is instead drawn to his kindness and generosity.
Social class is a major theme in Pride and Prejudice, and it affects the behavior and choices of many of the characters. The novel portrays a rigidly stratified society in which individuals are judged based on their social status, and where social mobility is limited. Characters belonging to different social classes often behave in a condescending or patronizing manner towards those who are of a lower social standing, and marriage is seen as a means to secure social and financial status. Through its portrayal of social class, Pride and Prejudice offers a commentary on the society of late 18th century England and the impact of social class on individuals’ lives.