Question

. And now nothing remains for me but to assure you in the most animated language of the violence of my affection. To fortune I am perfectly indifferent, and shall make no demand of that nature on your father, since I am well aware that it could not be complied with; and that one thousand pounds in the four per cents, which will not be yours till after your mother’s decease, is all that you may ever be entitled to. On that head, therefore, I shall be uniformly silent; and you may assure yourself that no ungenerous reproach shall ever pass my lips when we are married.” It was absolutely necessary to interrupt him now. “You are too hasty, sir,” she cried. “You forget that I have made no answer. Let me do it without further loss of time. Accept my thanks for the compliment you are paying me. I am very sensible of the honour of your proposals, but it is impossible for me to do otherwise than to decline them.” “I am not now to learn,” replied Mr. Collins, with a formal wave of the hand, “that it is usual with young ladies to reject the addresses of the man whom they secretly mean to accept, when he first applies for their favour; and that sometimes the refusal is repeated a second, or even a third time. I am therefore by no means discouraged by what you have just said, and shall hope to lead you to the altar erelong.” “Upon my word, sir,” cried Elizabeth, “your hope is a rather extraordinary one after my declaration. I do assure you that I am not one of those young ladies (if such young ladies there are) who are so daring as to risk their happiness on the chance of being asked a second time. I am perfectly serious in my refusal. You could not make me happy, and I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world who could make you so. Nay, were your friend Lady Catherine to know me, I am persuaded she would find me in every respect ill qualified for the situation.” from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Question Use the excerpt from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen to answer the question. How does the use of third-person omniscient narration demonstrate the author’s attitude toward the subject of marriage? (1 point) Responses by giving context for Mr. Collins’ decision to propose to Elizabeth by giving context for Mr. Collins’ decision to propose to Elizabeth by contrasting the reactions of Elizabeth and Mr. Collins by contrasting the reactions of Elizabeth and Mr. Collins by omitting the perspectives of Elizabeth’s sisters by omitting the perspectives of Elizabeth’s sisters by describing the personalities of Elizabeth and Mr. Collins by describing the personalities of Elizabeth and Mr. Collins

Answer 1

The use of third-person omniscient narration in this excerpt from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen allows the author to provide insights into the contrasting perspectives of Mr. Collins and Elizabeth, thereby reflecting her attitude toward the subject of marriage.

Mr. Collins, characterized by his formal and self-important demeanor, believes that his wealth—or lack thereof—should not influence Elizabeth's decision, indicating a transactional view of marriage. His expectation that Elizabeth's initial refusal is merely a formality reflects societal norms of his time, where women were often expected to play coy in romantic matters. This outlook highlights a view of marriage as a duty or social contract rather than a partnership based on mutual affection or compatibility.

In contrast, Elizabeth's reaction to Mr. Collins' proposal reveals an individualistic and modern perspective on marriage. She asserts her autonomy, emphatically rejecting the notion that she should accept his proposal out of obligation or expectation. Her refusal demonstrates the importance of individual happiness and compatibility in marital relationships, opposing the transactional view expressed by Mr. Collins.

Through this contrast, the narrator’s omniscience allows readers to see the absurdity of Mr. Collins' assumptions and to appreciate Elizabeth's determination to seek a marriage based on personal happiness rather than societal pressures. This duality in perspectives showcases Jane Austen's critical view of the institution of marriage in her contemporary society, emphasizing the significance of love and mutual respect over economic considerations and social expectations.