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Thoughtful Laughter In Pride And Prejudice By Jane Austen

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In Jane Austen's novel, Pride and Prejudice comedy is utilized in many of the novels more serious events to give the reader moments of thoughtful laughter. While laughter describes humor and comedy, the word thoughtful highlights a deeper meaning to that idea of humor. Thoughtful laughter can not be done through cheesy one liners, but through deeper ideas present in Mr. and Mrs Bennet relationship. Throughout the novel this thoughtful laughter is awakened through the contrast in personality between Mr. and Mrs Bennet, imagery, and dialogue. The juxtaposition between Mr and Mrs Bennet evokes thoughtful laughter in the reader due to the stark contrast in personality. The personality of Mr. Bennet is seen as a man who speaks his mind without getting upset or angry and is known for his reserve and dry, sarcastic wit which flies right over Mrs. Bennet. While on the other hand, Mrs Bennet lacks intelligence and has no idea …show more content…

Within the novel many serious scenes are introduced such as the meeting of Mr. Collins, but the way Mr. and Mrs Bennet paint the scene makes the reader laugh. For example, Mr Bennet doesn’t like Mr. Collins whereas Mrs. Bennet is excited and wants all her daughters to go out and marry him. With that in mind the actions of Mr. Bennet is seen as disapproving while Mrs. Bennet is going crazy at the accepting the chance of the marriage of one of her daughters. This evokes thoughtful laughter due to the crazy picture that is presented throughout the interaction especially at the dinner. Not only that but the statement Mr. Bennet says to Elizabeth concerning losing one of her parents due to the marriage between Collins makes the picture even more vivid and ridiculous because it shows the complete difference between the Bennets. By painting picture through Mr. and Mrs Bennet Austen is able to show thoughtful laughter. (Austen, Pride and

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