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 describing the personalities of Elizabeth and Mr. Collins by describing the personalities of Elizabeth and Mr. Collins by omitting the perspectives of Elizabeth’s sisters
Answers
GPT-4o mini
In Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen employs third-person omniscient narration to convey her nuanced attitude toward marriage, particularly through the contrast between Mr. Collins' and Elizabeth's perspectives on marriage. Mr. Collins, who embodies the pragmatic and transactional view of marriage, proposes to Elizabeth primarily for societal reasons, believing it is his duty to marry and secure an heir. His character is portrayed as pompous and self-important, viewing marriage as a mere arrangement rather than a partnership based on affection.
In stark contrast, Elizabeth's reaction is one of astonishment and refusal, reflecting her belief that marriage should be based on love and mutual respect, rather than obligation or social standing. This disparity illustrates Austen's critique of conventional marriage norms of the time. Through the omniscient narration, readers gain insights into Elizabeth's values and the ridiculousness of Mr. Collins' approach, showcasing Austen's preference for genuine connections over the societal expectations surrounding marriage. Thus, the use of third-person omniscient narration elaborates on characters’ motivations and attitudes, reinforcing the idea that marriage should be founded on deeper emotional bonds rather than mere social convention.
In stark contrast, Elizabeth's reaction is one of astonishment and refusal, reflecting her belief that marriage should be based on love and mutual respect, rather than obligation or social standing. This disparity illustrates Austen's critique of conventional marriage norms of the time. Through the omniscient narration, readers gain insights into Elizabeth's values and the ridiculousness of Mr. Collins' approach, showcasing Austen's preference for genuine connections over the societal expectations surrounding marriage. Thus, the use of third-person omniscient narration elaborates on characters’ motivations and attitudes, reinforcing the idea that marriage should be founded on deeper emotional bonds rather than mere social convention.