Major Character Traits
Intelligent, witty, and possessing a lively mind,
Who is Elizabeth Bennet?
This impulsive action by the youngest Bennet daughter throws the family into disgrace and requires Darcy's secret intervention.
What is Lydia Bennet's elopement with Mr. Wickham?
This central relationship evolves from initial mutual disdain, fueled by pride and prejudice, into deep love and understanding.
Who are Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy?
The modest Bennet family estate in Hertfordshire.
What is Longbourn?
The novel's opening line: "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."
What are Marriage (as an economic institution) OR Social Class/Wealth?
This character's defining trait is immense pride, initially manifesting as arrogance and reserve, masking deeper integrity.
Who is Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy?
This character's sudden departure from Netherfield Park plunges Jane Bennet into distress and confusion.
Who is Mr. Bingley (or What is Mr. Bingley leaving Netherfield)?
Characterized by his sarcastic detachment and her foolish obsession with marriage, this couple represents an ill-matched union.
Who are Mr. and Mrs. Bennet?
The estate rented by Mr. Bingley early in the novel, the location of the ball where Darcy first snubs Elizabeth.
What is Netherfield Park?
At the Meryton ball, Mr. Darcy says of Elizabeth, "She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me."
What are Pride, Prejudice, and Social Class?
This Bennet sister is characterized by her serene kindness, beauty, and a reluctance to see fault in anyone.
Who is Jane Bennet?
Mr. Darcy overcomes his pride and condescension to perform this act for Elizabeth at Hunsford Parsonage, which she vehemently rejects.
What is his first marriage proposal?
This close sisterly bond is marked by mutual affection and confidence, though their temperaments differ significantly.
Who are Elizabeth and Jane Bennet?
The grand, tasteful Derbyshire estate owned by Mr. Darcy, the sight of which impresses Elizabeth deeply.
What is Pemberley?
Charlotte Lucas decides to marry Mr. Collins primarily for a comfortable home, viewing happiness in marriage as "entirely a matter of chance."
What are Marriage (as security/pragmatism), Social Class, and Female Economic Dependence?
Known for his amiable disposition and good nature, this gentleman is easily swayed by his friend's opinions.
Who is Mr. Charles Bingley?
This unexpected visit by Elizabeth and the Gardiners leads to a significant shift in her perception of Mr. Darcy.
What is the visit to Pemberley?
This relationship is built on superficial charm and deceit on one side, and naive infatuation leading to scandal on the other.
Who are Lydia Bennet and Mr. Wickham?
The residence of Lady Catherine de Bourgh, where Elizabeth stays with the Collinses and receives Darcy's first proposal.
What is Rosings Park?
Elizabeth, touring Pemberley and hearing the housekeeper's praise of Darcy, realizes "Till this moment I never knew myself."
What are Self-Knowledge, Prejudice (overcoming it), and Appearance vs. Reality?
Pompous, obsequious, and lacking self-awareness, this clergyman is preoccupied with his patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh.
Who is Mr. William Collins?
Following Elizabeth's rejection, Mr. Darcy takes this action to explain his past dealings with Wickham and his interference with Jane and Bingley.
What is writing a long explanatory letter?
This intimidating aristocrat attempts to interfere in her nephew's romantic life, viewing his preferred match as unsuitable.
Who is Lady Catherine de Bourgh (in relation to Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth)?
The seaside resort town where the militia regiment relocates, and where Lydia Bennet disgracefully elopes.
What is Brighton?
Lady Catherine de Bourgh travels to Longbourn to demand Elizabeth promise never to accept a proposal from Mr. Darcy, citing the "shade" and degradation of such a match.
What are Social Class/Rank, Pride, Family Connections, and (Elizabeth's) Independence?