P & P #7: Ch. 6- 11

Quote 1: "Her [Lady Catherine] air was not conciliating, nor was her manner of receiving them, such as to make her visitors forget their inferior rank. [...] Whatever she said, was spoken in so authoritative a tone, as marked herself with self- importance" (125).

It seems to be perfectly acceptable for a wealthy person to show arrogance as though it is something they are born with. Even Mr. Collins, who does not find any oddity that one is supposed to feel inferior to her, mentioned: "She [Lady Catherine] likes to have the distinction of rank preserved" (124). Money is clearly not enough for those of high- social status. It is expected that everybody drop what they are doing to welcome people of wealth. Lady Catherine thinks it is acceptable to be authoritative because she is in the presence of inferior people. It does not make her any more intelligent than they are. When the conversation about piano playing took place, she insulted Mrs. Collins, mentioned how long a person needs to play for experience knowing neither of the families present have pianos of their own, and mentioned Elizabeth is not as good as her daughter in Elizabeth's presence. It is unfortunate how the wealthy people need to be insulting towards the lower class to make themselves feel of more importance.


Quote 2: "His complexion became pale with anger, and the disturbance of his mind was visible in every feature. He was struggling for the appearance of composure, and would not open his lips, till he believed himself to have attained it" (146).

This is the first time Mr. Darcy has had trouble maintaining his composure. Something has finally occurred that impacted him enough to break it. Considering how Mr. Darcy always gets what he wants, he must have expected an answer of his liking. Elizabeth set him straight, while still being prejudice against him. Besides this, she was shocked. Even after breaking off Mr. Bingley and Jane's relationship, he still went ahead and declared his love to Elizabeth. This love he felt for her was not an infatuation, but something serious. Mr. Darcy thinks before he speaks and to have the courage to say that is baffling.