Misconceptions Of Marriage In Jane Austen's Pride And Prejudice

760 Words4 Pages
Marriage does not mean happiness and it has not for hundreds of years. From Larry King to Barbara Walters, beauty is not the foundation for marriage and this false idolization of love can be seen in the real world and in the world of fiction. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a prime example of literary relationships developing around the misconceptions of marriage. The majority of these relationships stem from false love and money, but other marriages rise above the standard and show true love and compassion. To begin, fake love has many characteristics which includes: self concern, infatuation, adultery and an absence of trust. These characteristics are seen in most of the failed relationships between characters. Self concern relates to Mr. Collins and his relationship attempts with Elizabeth and Jane Bennet. When purposing to Jane he tells her “it will add greatly to my happiness” (103), signaling a self centered desire versus a fulfilled love. Infatuation is seen between Bingley and Jane. Bingley brings up her beauty many times but does not know much about her. These intense feelings for her beauty are the only feelings he shows in the novel. In addition, Jane is overwhelmed with his good looks and wealth. Love at first sight does not mean happiness or trust and may lead to a hole in many of the important parts of a relationship, for example confidence. A lack of confidence is seen throughout the relationships in Pride and Prejudice. The failing of marriages