Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen
It seems there is nothing Mrs. Bennet will not do to get her daughters married. Today, such a characterization might bring with it heart-warming connotations, but "anything" includes all things sinister as well as all things lovely. When Mr. Bingley comes before the girls are ready, a succinct hyperbole reinforces the idea that Mrs. Bennet cares more for wealth than her daughters' happiness.
"Oh! hang Kitty! what has she to do with it? Come be quick, be quick! where is your sash my dear," (Austen, 271).
Apparently, Mrs. Bennet has unwittingly condoned the murder of her daughter. Obviously, this is just an expression, but the hyperbole still reveals her character, especially in the circumstance.
Since Bingley was at the house, it should have been a time for celebration of the impending wedding. However, instead of speaking words of love to match the occasion, she spoke out of anxiety and frustration. If she had only hoped for Jane's happiness, then she would not have fretted at all to get ready for Bingley; it would not be her responsibility to win him over. Instead, she reveals her desire for wealth once again by attempting to take complete control of the situation and eliminating all obstacles. Just like when Jane fell ill at Netherfield, Mrs. Bennet showed little concern for her daughters' well-being if it meant that a fruitful marriage could be secured. She would not let even her own daughters' get in the way of their own wealth.
No comments:
Post a Comment