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Dramatic Irony
Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Charlotte's Marriage:
Though Elizabeth is shocked to learn of Collins and Charlotte becoming engaged, Austen foreshadows this turn of events in an earlier scene. When Elizabeth and Charlotte are discussing Jane and Bingley’s courtship early in the novel, Charlotte makes it clear that “securing” a partner is the most important thing, implying that she herself is uninterested in getting to know the “disposition” of her potential husband until after they are married, saying, "When she is secure of him, there will be more leisure for falling in love as much as she chooses." She later goes on to say:
"Happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance. If the dispositions of the parties are ever so well known to each other or ever so similar beforehand, it does not advance their felicity in the least.”
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Chapter 35
Explanation and Analysis—The Bennet Sisters:
Throughout the novel, the youngest Bennet sisters—Mary, Kitty, and Lydia—act as foils to the oldest daughters, Jane and Elizabeth. While Jane and Elizabeth are caring, mature, and know how to behave with proper manners, the three younger Bennet sisters display signs of naivety and an overall lack of social awareness. Specifically, Kitty and Lydia engage in over-the-top flirting, and Mary—who is more of a recluse—insists on publicly playing the piano very poorly.
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Chapter 40
Explanation and Analysis—Darcy and Wickham:
Throughout Pride and Prejudice, Wickham acts as a foil to Darcy, since his presence often brings out certain vital pieces of information about Darcy’s character. Specifically, Wickham is Darcy’s foil in that he appears to be a kind, affable man while Darcy appears to be arrogant and standoffish. In reality, however, Darcy is kind and considerate, while Wickham turns out to be a liar who willfully manipulates young women into giving him what he wants (whether companionship, their inheritance, or both).
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