During the 19th century, marriage was generally based on social standards and materialistic commodities rather than sentimental attraction. Pride and Prejudice is a novel that analyzes women and their contradicting attitudes towards marriage. Charlotte Lucas is a character that believes happiness is not a necessity as long as she is financially stable. Similarly, Jane Bennet is practical about her economic state while still recognizing the value of true love. In contrast, Lydia Bennet is young, immature and blinded by the idea of being admired. Elizabeth Bennet, on the other hand, refuses to marry for money, and only considers a marriage with mutual compatibility. Consequently, Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice focuses on women and their distinct outlooks regarding marriage throughout this era. Charlotte Lucas is a character that gives the most accurate representation of why women marry during this time period. She is a grown, educated woman who lacks beauty and economic stability. The movie adaptation of the novel emphasizes Charlotte’s awareness of her own future and financial status when she states "I'm twenty-seven years old, I've no money and no prospects. I'm already a burden to my parents and I'm frightened” (Wright 2005). Also, Miss Lucas believes that Mr. Collins’ offer is the only opportunity that will allow …show more content…
In summary, Charlotte Lucas accepts a marriage proposal based on her fear of becoming a penniless spinster. Additionally, Jane Bennet marries Charles Bingley for his honorable title and caring quality. Furthermore, Lydia Bennets’ childish mentality leads her to elope with George Wickham. Finally, Elizabeth Bennet accepts Fitzwilliam Darcy’s proposal based on her sincere feelings for him. All in all, Pride and Prejudice is a novel that accurately represents women and their various attitudes concerning marriage during the 19th