This blog is part of an assignment for the Paper 103: Literature of the Romantics Sem.1,2023.
Breaking Chains: A Feminist Exploration of Pride and Prejudice
Table of Contents:-
Personal Information
Assignment Details
Abstract
Keywords
Introduction
Issues of Feminism Reflected in the Pride and Prejudice Novel,
The Dominant Roles of Woman Deserted in the Pride and
Prejudice Novel,
Issues of feminism arise in the novel of Pride and Prejudice,
Effects of feminism experienced by the main character of Pride and Prejudice,
Conclusion
References
Personal Information:-
Name:- Pallavi Parmar
Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2025)
Enrollment Number:- 5108230034
E-mail Address:
pallaviparmar501@gmail.com
Roll Number:- 25
Assignment Details:-
Topic:- Breaking Chains: A Feminist Exploration of Pride and Prejudice
Subject code: 22394
Paper 103: Literature of the Romantics
Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU,
Bhavnagar.
Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023
Abstract:
This comprehensive exploration delves into the feminist themes within Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice." Unraveling the societal norms and gender expectations entrenched in the 19th-century narrative, the analysis focuses on the character of Elizabeth Bennet as a beacon of feminist resistance. Drawing on Liberal Feminism principles, Elizabeth's rejection of societal expectations, particularly in declining Mr. Collins' proposal, underscores themes of individualism, choice, and autonomy. The examination extends to societal asymmetries explored in the novel, including social, economic, and educational disparities, emphasizing how Austen critiques and challenges the limitations imposed on women. Additionally, the discussion delves into Elizabeth's role as a catalyst for changing societal perspectives on marriage and economic considerations. Despite the consequences, Elizabeth emerges as a character who embodies feminist ideals, resisting traditional gender norms. The analysis concludes with the broader implications of Austen's work on feminist discourse, recognizing Elizabeth Bennet as a timeless symbol of female empowerment.
Key Words:
Pride and Prejudice, Feminist Exploration,Elizabeth Bennet, Liberal Feminism, Societal Norms.
Introduction:
"Breaking Chains" delves into Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," unraveling its exploration of feminism amid 19th-century societal norms. Through a feminist lens, the analysis navigates love, societal expectations, and individual agency, highlighting how Austen challenges and subverts prevailing norms. This exploration draws parallels to contemporary discourse on gender roles, independence, and relationships, recognizing the timeless relevance of the novel's themes in the ongoing narrative of women's empowerment.
_____________________________________________
Feminism, born from a response to gender disparities, employs social criticism through various mediums, including literature. Jane Austen, notably through works like "Pride and Prejudice," utilized novels to challenge societal norms and contribute to the broader feminist discourse. In this literary exploration, Austen critiques gender roles, offering readers insights into societal challenges faced by women and advocating for change.
(DIASTUTI)
A.) Issues of Feminism Reflected in
the Pride and Prejudice Novel :
The discussion on feminism in Pride and Prejudice focuses on the asymmetry between men and women, encompassing social, economic, and educational disparities.
1. Social Asymmetry :
• The effect of patriarchy culture
Pride and Prejudice explores the impact of patriarchal culture on English society, exposing the discriminatory Primogeniture system and highlighting gender disparities in inheritance. The novel satirizes societal expectations around marriage and serves as a medium for Jane Austen to depict the social conditions and cultural nuances of the nineteenth century, contributing to a broader theme of feminism by exposing discriminatory practices in societal structures of the time. (DIASTUTI)
• The limitations of women's rights:
Pride and Prejudice exposes societal limitations on women's rights, as seen through Elizabeth's struggle for agency. Her solitary journeys challenge norms, met with disdain from Mr. Bingley's sisters. The novel reflects pervasive discrimination, illustrating how women faced scrutiny for actions men could undertake without consequence. Elizabeth's defiance becomes a symbol of resilience against societal expectations. (DIASTUTI)
2. Economic Asymmetry:
Pride and Prejudice unveils economic disparities in a materialistic, patriarchal society. Jane Austen portrays the societal emphasis on wealth, with characters like Mr. Collins aiming for financial gain through marriage. The narrative exposes the economic challenges and pressures faced by women, notably Elizabeth, tied to inheritance patterns dictated by patriarchal norms. (DIASTUTI)
3. Education Asymmetry:.
Pride and Prejudice critiques educational disparities tied to social class distinctions. Lady Catherine's condescending remarks highlight societal biases, linking education to social status. Elizabeth challenges these norms, asserting her family's commitment to learning. The novel explores the stereotypes surrounding women's education, showcasing Elizabeth's intellectual prowess and advocating for educational equality irrespective of social standing. (DIASTUTI)
• Woman as Commodity Matter:
In Pride and Prejudice, the novel portrays a nineteenth-century societal framework where women's social status is intricately tied to economic conditions and marriage prospects. Families, like the Bennets, navigate the pursuit of advantageous marriages to secure financial stability, emphasizing the influence of male dominance in shaping women's destinies. Mrs. Bennet's conversation with Mr. Collins highlights the materialistic concerns and societal norms that position daughters as commodities, driven by hereditary laws and economic considerations in the pursuit of familial happiness. (DIASTUTI)
B). The Dominant Roles of Woman
Deserted in the Pride and
Prejudice Novel:
1. Women Resistance to Patriarchy
Culture :
In Pride and Prejudice, the narrative, set in nineteenth-century British society, indirectly explores forms of women's resistance against systems dominated by men. The researcher focuses on Elizabeth's actions, particularly her rejection of Mr. Collins, as a notable instance of resistance. Elizabeth's refusal challenges societal expectations dictating women's pursuit of wealthy and noble men. By rejecting Mr. Collins, the heir to her father's estate, she defies traditional norms that prioritize male inheritance, emphasizing her commitment to personal agency and love over societal expectations. Elizabeth's resistance signifies a departure from established gender roles, showcasing her determination to shape her own destiny. (DIASTUTI)
2. Women as Second Person:
In the 19th-century British society depicted in Pride and Prejudice, men held dominance over women, relegating them to a secondary status in various aspects of life, including economy, social interactions, and education. Women were viewed as inferior to men, and discrimination against them was pervasive.
The quote,
"I'm thinking about story,' replied Elizabeth. 'Behavior cousin hurt my feelings. What underlies Vigilante attitude itself is it?"
- exemplifies Elizabeth's experience of mistreatment by Mr. Darcy, highlighting the societal perception of women as easily offended and inferior. This underscores the prevalent notion that women were considered second-class citizens, susceptible to hurtful actions and disdain from men.
Another quote,
"I certainly shall not. You know how I detest it, unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner. At such an assembly as this, it would be insupportable. Your sisters are engaged, and there is not another woman in the room whom it would not be a punishment to me to stand up with,"
... spoken by Mr. Darcy, further illustrates the discriminatory mindset of men. Mr. Darcy's refusal to dance with women not of his social status reflects the prevailing belief that women's worth was determined by their class, contributing to the overall discrimination against women.
By this we can say that, women in 19th-century British society, as depicted in Pride and Prejudice, faced systemic discrimination and were considered weaker in economic, social, and educational aspects. The narrative portrays the societal norms that perpetuated the dominance of men and the marginalization of women, highlighting the challenges women like Elizabeth faced in a society where they were viewed as second-class citizens.(DIASTUTI)
3.Woman to change of society's view:
In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet challenges the prevailing materialistic culture and societal norms surrounding marriage in 19th-century British society. She becomes a catalyst for change by advocating for genuine connection over wealth and social status. Elizabeth's perspective signifies a departure from the conventional belief that advantageous marriages solely ensure happiness, signaling a transformation in societal attitudes towards the institution of marriage.(DIASTUTI)
• Issues of feminism arise in the novel of Pride and Prejudice :
Original Quote:
"Mrs. Bennet: Oh! My dear, I cannot bear to hear that mentioned. Pray do not talk of that odious man. I do think it is the hardest thing in the world that your estate should be entailed away from your own children; and I am sure if I had been you, I should have tried long ago to do something or other about it."
(Austen, 1984: 83)
Explanation:
In Pride and Prejudice, the issue of feminism is evident through the unequal treatment of men and women, particularly in the system of entailment. Mrs. Bennet expresses frustration with the entailed estate, emphasizing the hardship of losing it to future generations. This societal rule compels the main character to consider marrying her cousin to secure the family's economic stability. The quote underscores the unequal distribution of material resources, where women are often dependent on their husband's property. However, the main character, Elizabeth, rejects her cousin's proposal, highlighting her refusal to marry for material gain and challenging societal expectations.
Original Quote:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife. However little known the feelings or views of such a man may be on his first entering a neighbourhood, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that he is considered as the rightful property of someone or other of their daughters." (Austen, 1984:1)
Explanation:
Pride and Prejudice portrays societal expectations linking women's well-being to affluent husbands. Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins symbolizes Liberal Feminism, advocating individualism and challenging traditional gender roles, though it brings familial discord, revealing the tension between autonomy and societal norms in the 19th century.
• Effects of feminism experienced by the main character of Pride and Prejudice
Statement 3 :
Elizabeth :Indeed, Mr. Collins, all praise of me will be
unnecessary. You must give me leave to judge for myself, and
pay me the compliment of believing what I say. I wish you
very happy and very rich, and by refusing your hand, do all
in my power to prevent your being otherwise. In making me
the offer, you must have satisfied the delicacy of your feelings
with regard to my family, and may take possession of
Longbourn estate whenever it falls, without any self-
reproach. This matter may be considered, therefore, as finally
settled. (Austen, 1984: 147)
In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins aligns with Liberal Feminism, emphasizing individualism and freedom. Her bold assertion of sincerity and rejection of societal expectations showcase her commitment to making choices based on her own values and emotions. This reflects a feminist ideal of women as rational beings entitled to express themselves authentically, challenging traditional gender norms. (DIASTUTI)
Statement 4 :
Elizabeth : I do assure you sir, that I have no pretension
whatever to that kind of elegance which consists
in tormenting a respectable man. I would rather
be paid the compliment of being believed
sincere. I thank you again and again for the
honour you have done me in your proposal, but to
accept them is absolutely impossible. My feelings
in every respect forbid it. Can I speak plainer?
Do not consider me now as an elegant female
intending to plague you, but a rational
creature speaking the truth from her heart.
(Austen, 1984:148)
In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth's rejection of Mr. Collins aligns with Liberal Feminism, emphasizing individualism and freedom. Her bold assertion of sincerity and rejection of societal expectations showcase her commitment to making choices based on her own values and emotions. This reflects a feminist ideal of women as rational beings entitled to express themselves authentically, challenging traditional gender norms. (DIASTUTI)
Conclusion:
In essence, "Breaking Chains: A Feminist Exploration of Pride and Prejudice" unveils Elizabeth Bennett's transformative journey, showcasing her as a subtle yet powerful feminist figure challenging societal norms. The narrative emphasizes her defiance against patriarchy, absence of horizontal hostility, and the descriptor "sporty," symbolizing her departure from conventional expectations. This exploration aligns with the broader theme of breaking free from societal constraints and advocating for women's equality. Austen's portrayal of Elizabeth stands as a timeless symbol of female empowerment, inviting readers to reflect on the enduring relevance of feminism in literature and society.
References:
Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Edited by Vivien Jones, Penguin Classics, 2003.
DIASTUTI, NI MADE. “Analysis of the Feminism in Pride and Prejudice - Academy Publication.” Jurnal Harian Regional , Udayana University, 2014, Click here
Wang, Xueqing. “Analysis of the Feminism in Pride and Prejudice - Academy Publication.” Academy Publication, ACADEMY PUBLISHER Manufactured in Finland, Dec. 2011, academypublication.com/issues/past/tpls/vol01/12/22.pdf. Click here
Word Count : 1,851
Images : 3
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