Body paragraph #3 & conclusion

The society of early 19^th century England exemplifies that a woman’s reputation is of utmost importance. Elizabeth evidently defies herself as a rather distinctive figure in her society. Although her intentions are positive and good-spirited, she steps outside the social medium making herself vulnerable to exclusion and banishment. She sees through the pretensions of overbearing and insolent people through her self-assurance and audacious language. Moreover, the only individual who dares to stand up to the egotistical Lady Catherine is Elizabeth: “Lady Catherine seemed quite astonished at not receiving a direct answer; and Elizabeth suspected herself to be the first creature who had ever dared to trifle with so much dignified impertinence” (114). Elizabeth is unaffected by Lady Catherine’s rank or disposition and instead demonstrates her ability to defend herself and her family to the woman. Her admirable courage conveys her loyalty and pride to her family and their name. Lady Catherine’s stupidity and narrow-mindedness amuses Elizabeth and reassures her that when she protects her family and their middle-class conditions, she can overcome the autocratic society: “The last born has as good a right to be the pleasures of youth, as the first. And to be kept back on such a motive! I think it would not be very likely to promote sisterly affection or delicacy of mind” (114). Elizabeth’s ability to clearly articulate her beliefs bestows her the capability to withstand others’ wills.  She demonstrates the enduring tenacity of her ordain and self-respect. Moreover, towards the end of the novel, Elizabeth experiences a self-revelation: her love for Darcy. Her maturation and the risk of accepting Darcy’s proposal in marriage jeopardizes her future, Darcy’s future, and the well being of her family. However, her rich and bold character leads her to remain true to her romanticized vision for love. Once again, Elizabeth protects her family from Lady Catherine and then asserts her independence from the antagonizing domination of the upper-class: “I am resolved to act in that manner, which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me” (239). Elizabeth constantly explores the discrepancy between herself and the average woman of early 19^th century England. Unlike most women of the time period, she prioritizes her happiness first even if it will threaten her hopes of living a prosperous life. She acknowledges social wealth and hierarchy but does endure the strict and ludicrous regulations society expects her to live by.

Protagonist Elizabeth Bennet’s commendable qualities reflect how she perceives herself as a young woman grappling with the traditional values and regulations society has enforced upon her. Although she begins the novel displaying a prejudiced and restrictive view of others, she comes to discover the extent of her own folly and blossoms into an individual who has learned from her previous judgments and misconceptions. Moreover, Elizabeth's acknowledgement of social wealth and hierarchy overcomes the rigid standards and protocol of 19th century English society.