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Jane Austen, in her masterpiece 'Pride and Prejudice,' masterfully employs contrasting characters to illuminate their various traits, both virtuous and flawed. Through this literary device, Austen skillfully shapes the plot, highlighting her themes of societal judgment and the consequences of pride and prejudice. One striking example of character contrast is observed in the personas of Mr. Wickham and Mr. Darcy, a dichotomy that not only builds tension but also conveys Austen's cautionary message against hasty judgments.
Wickham and Mr. Darcy
Upon the introduction of Mr. Wickham, readers are presented with an overwhelmingly positive portrayal—his 'gentlemanlike appearance,' 'perfectly correct and unassuming' manners, and the community's unanimous approval shape an initially favorable perception. This stands in stark contrast to the introduction of Mr. Darcy, who is swiftly deemed 'proud, above his company and above being pleased,' not only by Elizabeth but also by the entire community. This early judgment predisposes readers against Darcy, fostering a negative opinion of his character from the outset.
Austen strategically challenges this bias through the use of a versatile narrator, transitioning between Elizabeth's perspective and that of others at Netherfield, such as the Bingleys.
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This narrative shift paints Darcy in a more favorable light, presenting a nuanced view of his character. From the initial impression of his rude manners at the ball to the acknowledgment of his appreciation for Elizabeth's intelligence, Austen prompts readers to reassess their judgment.
The most significant shift in perception occurs in Volume two, where Wickham's true character is revealed as fraudulent, causing repercussions for both the Darcy and Bennet families.
Austen leverages these character dynamics to underscore a central theme—the fallibility of first impressions. By contrasting Darcy and Wickham initially and later subverting these expectations, Austen emphasizes the substantial impact of misjudgments on the novel's plot.
Another pivotal character contrast in Austen's narrative is the dichotomy between Jane and Elizabeth Bennet. This dichotomy serves as a vehicle for exploring the novel's primary theme—pride and prejudice. Elizabeth's character starkly contrasts with her sister Jane's due to her prejudiced attitudes. Elizabeth often forms rapid judgments based on first impressions and, once formed, clings to these opinions with pride, sometimes to her detriment, as seen in the cases of Wickham and Lydia.
This pride is evident early in the novel when Darcy's remark that she is 'tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt [him]' wounds her pride, fostering a lingering resentment. Elizabeth's skepticism towards the Bingley sisters further illustrates her tendency to form hasty opinions without substantial knowledge. In contrast, Jane embodies a more trusting nature, always inclined to see the best in people. This divergence highlights Jane's kindness compared to Elizabeth's often judgmental disposition, exemplified in Jane's inclination 'to take good of everybody's character and make it still better.'
While Elizabeth's discernment is portrayed as a positive attribute on occasions, such as deducing Mr. Collins' character from his letter, it becomes a source of conflict throughout the novel. An instance of this conflict arises when Elizabeth, swayed by her prejudice against Darcy, readily accepts Wickham's distorted narrative. Jane's more measured approach, avoiding hasty judgments, aligns with Austen's message that rash assessments and prideful obstinacy should be avoided. Austen, through this character contrast, skillfully develops her thematic exploration of pride and prejudice.
In conclusion, Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' is a testament to her artful use of character contrast to convey complex themes. The dichotomy between Mr. Wickham and Mr. Darcy exposes the fallibility of first impressions and the consequences of societal judgment. Simultaneously, the divergence between Jane and Elizabeth Bennet serves as a vehicle for exploring the overarching theme of pride and prejudice.
Austen's narrative prowess lies in her ability to challenge reader perceptions, prompting a reevaluation of characters and their motivations. Through the skillful manipulation of contrasting characters, Austen imparts timeless lessons on the dangers of hasty judgments and the detrimental effects of pride. 'Pride and Prejudice' stands as a literary masterpiece, urging readers to reflect on their own preconceptions and embrace a more nuanced understanding of human nature.
Austen's Character Dynamics in Pride and Prejudice. (2016, May 21). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/how-does-austen-use-contrasting-characters-in-pride-and-prejudice-essay
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