An Analysis of the Pride and Prejudice Proposal Scene

In the novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, there are several scenes that reveal the values of the characters and the society in which they live in. Majority of the scenes contribute to the meaning of the work as a whole. Although there are numerous scenes that reveal values of the characters and the society they live in, the proposal from Darcy to Elizabeth greatly exhibits the meaning of work a whole. In volume II, chapter 11 Darcy's proposal, expected for the reader yet shockingly to Elizabeth is the first climax in the novel. The proposal scene itself is a prime example of Austen's abilities to bring her characters to life and reveal their personalities through dialogue. Elizabeth's straightforward character and her disregard for considerations of rank highly evident in her reaction to Darcy's proposal. Elizabeth's pride is also evident, the lack of civility in her refusal is because of Darcy's frank explanation of his reasons for proposing because of her inferior connections. Darcy's pride and prejudice are also carried throughout the scene. In spite of the fact that Elizabeth has not shown any partiality or affection toward him at all, he assumes that she will accept his proposal simply because of his great wealth and rank. This shows Darcy's egotistical character which is not approved from Elizabeth. His prejudice against class is shown when he speaks at length about the inferiority of her connections and his desire to avoid proposing to her because of them. In his proposal to Elizabeth, he spends more time emphasizing Elizabeth’s lower rank than actually asking her to marry him. This greatly exemplifies the meaning of the work as a whole by showing pride and prejudice in Pride and Prejudice. When Elizabeth defiantly rejects his proposal of marriage Darcy comes to realization. He is stunned, and shocked of how his behavior is perceived by others, particularly Elizabeth. Reconsidering it all, he commits to go out of his way to show his