Significance of the title

Society concerned with reputation/appearance Society concerned with reputation/appearance. Gossip fuels the social gatherings. Pre-judging lies at the centre of all events. (Think of the opening line even!) Elizabeth – believes she is good judge of character but pride allows her to fall victim to own prejudices. Can be divided into 3 parts around her learning – 1st she is prejudiced towards Darcy – his quip about her not being pretty enough. Taken in by Wickham. His lies convince her that she is a good judge. Ch. 18 “His guilt and his descent…” Not only Elizabeth, society has made its mind up on him. Ch. 3 “His character was decided. He was…”

Mrs Bennet also makes up her mind without knowing him. (Pg Mrs Bennet also makes up her mind without knowing him. (Pg. 15 my book) “he is a most disagreeable..” Ironic, her behaviour almost destroys Jane’s relationship. Quickly changes her mind after Darcy proposes. Turning point – ch. 35 – marks beginning of her ‘re-education’. “Mr Wickham’s chief object…” Darcy admits in ch. 58 that his behaviour was “unpardonable” Lady Catherine’s pride prejudices her against Darcy marrying below his class. Ch. 56 Lydia’s behaviour prejudices society against the possibility of her sisters marrying. Mr Collins’ letter in ch. 48 “injurious to the fortunes…” Elizabeth and Darcy overcome p. and p. for happy ending. Lydia finds a kind of respectability but not necessarily a life of happiness Each learns error of relying on first impressions.