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Pride and Prejudice
Volume 3 Chapter 15
Chapter Summary
- After Lady Catherine leaves, Elizabeth evaluates what has just happened.
- She begins to wonder how the rumor started.
-She concludes that it was the work of the Lucases who were eager for another wedding.
- Elizabeth fears that Lady Catherine will convince Darcy to avoid Elizabeth, but tries to
convince herself it is not her problem.
Chapter Summary- The next morning, Mr. Bennet asks Elizabeth to
come into his library and read a letter he has received from Mr. Collins.
- This letter explains that Mr. Collins has heard that Mr. Darcy has, or will soon, propose to Elizabeth. However, he advises her against
accepting for Lady Catherine’s sake.
- As Mr. Bennet finds out about the supposed relationship between Darcy and Elizabeth, he is surprised and “diverted” by even the thought of
the rumor being true.
The Use of “Divert”1a : to turn from one course or use to another : deflect<divert traffic to a side street>b : distract <trying to divert her attention>
2: to give pleasure to especially by distracting the attention from what burdens or distresses
At first glance, this word may seem to mean “amused” or “entertained”. However, the true meaning is to give pleasure by distracting the
attention of something distressing.
Question #1How does Mr. Bennet’s reaction when he learnt of
the rumored relationship between his daughter and Mr. Darcy reveal dramatic irony? Given the
true definition of “divert”, do you think Mr. Bennet had a underlying meaning relating to
another event in the novel? If so, what and why?
Question #1- There is dramatic irony because Mr. Bennet is
mocking the possible proposal by Mr. Darcy to
Elizabeth. However, it is known that this has
actually occurred earlier on in the novel.
- Only Elizabeth and Jane are aware of the
proposal. Therefore, the rest of the family is
oblivious of the situation.
Question #1- Mr. Bennet could, or could not have meant
something by his use of “divert”. If he did, it would
be that this amusing news is distracting from the
pain Lydia has caused the family.
- If not, he just used the term for the “amused”
side of the definition. Although, this might just be
the way the term was used during the time period.
Question #2Why was it so surprising to Mr. Bennet that the
rumor was of Mr. Darcy? What would have been his
reaction if it was any other man?
Question #2- Mr Bennet’s reaction was very surprised because
throughout the entire novel, Elizabeth went on about
her vexation towards Mr. Darcy.
- During the first Assembly in Meryton, Elizabeth
was insulted by the way Mr. Darcy spoke of her.
Therefore, he would think it impossible that
Elizabeth would be in a relationship with Mr. Darcy.
Question #2
- If the rumor had been about any other man, Mr.
Bennet would have mocked Elizabeth, asking her
questions about her rumored “love” and making her
feel quite low and awkward.
- His demeaning, sarcastic character reveals this.
Question #3
How does Mr. Collins’s reaction to the rumor reveal
character? How does his relationship with Lady
Catherine affect his relationship with his family?
Question #3- Mr. Collins is a silly, compliant character which is
reflected in his reaction.
- He says “[Elizabeth] and her noble admirer may
be aware of what they are about, and not run hastily
into a marriage which has not been properly
sanctioned.”
- He demonstrates that he likes to follow rules and
abide by social constructs.
Question #3- His relationship with Lady Catherine takes a toll
on his relationship with his family.
- Normally, one would congratulate one’s cousins on
their engagement.
- Since his compliant character and relation with
Lady Catherine deem it to be unacceptable, he
diminishes his already weak relationship with his
closest family.
Thank You