Constraints to Marriage in Austen's Novels
An Examination of Persuasion and Pride and Prejudice
Oct 1, 2009
Writer Jane Austen challenges preconceived notions regarding marriage and class structures of Regency England in her novels Pride and Prejudice and Persuasion. Both novels feature marriages that are initially viewed as imprudent because of imposed societal constraints, rather than lack of affection or romantic love. Though class structure can stand in the way of these marriages as they are first being contemplated, Austen’s heroines are able to summon great personal strength and courage in order to gain what they desire.
Exchange between Lady Catherine and Elizabeth Bennett
- Lady Catherine de Bourgh and Elizabeth Bennet partake in an exchange at the climax of Pride and Prejudice that is ripe with both criticism of class structure and the importance of money in arranging a marriage. While discussing the relationship between her daughter, whom she desires Darcy marry, and Mr. Darcy, she explains, “they are descended on the maternal side from the same noble line; and, on the father’s, from respectable, honourable and ancient, though untitled families. Their fortune on both sides is splendid” (P&P 239). This excerpt alone encompasses so many of the rigid societal and financial structures that governed matrimony during Austen’s lifetime.
- Lady Catherine’s quibble with Elizabeth has nothing to do with her personally, rather with the situation of her family, “What is to divide them? The upstart pretensions of a young woman without family, connection or fortune” (239).
- Elizabeth is quick in retort though, explaining that, “In marrying your nephew, I should not consider myself quitting that sphere. He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman’s daughter; so far we are equal” (P&P 240). This does little to stop Lady Catherine from her tirade, but it does clearly state Elizabeth’s feelings regarding any class differences between herself and Darcy.
- Darcy is not frightened by this difference in social standing. His desire to marry Elizabeth is strong enough that he is willing to forgo the approval of his Aunt and propose.
Anne Elliot and Wentworth
Persuasion’s Anne Elliot is convinced to break her engagement with Fredrick Wentworth because of his lower standing and less than stellar financial situation.
- Her father, Sir Walter himself “gave it all the negative of great astonishment, great coldness, great silence, and professional resolution of doing nothing for his daughter. He thought it a very degrading alliance” (P 18).
- When Wentworth returns from creating his fortune in the Napoleonic Wars, he sees that Anne has matured and grown sure of herself, unlike the young lady who was persuaded not to accept him when they were young, Wentworth renews his interest and pursues Anne.
- Older and wiser, Anne no longer cares for those constraints and issues that forced her to initially refuse Wentworth, and she responds to his sentimental letter by accepting his proposal. She is portrayed as a much stronger woman, secure in what she wants, with little concern to class structure.
Elizabeth Bennet does not allow herself to be intimidated. Even in the face of Darcy’s opposing family, she does not show any regard for perceived class differences between herself and Darcy. Initially, Anne Elliot succumbs to her family’s wishes and does not marry Wentworth. It is only years later, with more strength of self, that she is compelled to marry Wentworth, as it is what she desires.
Austen, Jane. Persuasion. New York, Dover, 1995.
Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. New York, Dover, 1995.
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