Pride and Prejudice Flashcards
what are some relevant quotes to support Mr Darcy’s initial characterisation of being prideful?
- ” She is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me “
-“ You know how I detest it , unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner”
- ” could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?”
- ” he was the proudest , most disagreeable man in the world”
- “My good opinion once lost is lost forever”
- ” He was not more eloquent on the subject of tenderness than of pride “
- ” he was looked at with great admiration … till his manners gave a disgust which turned the tide of his popularity”
-“He really believed that were it not for the inferiority of her connections, he should be in some danger.”
-“He was the cause, his pride and caprice were the cause, of all that Jane had suffered.”
what are some relevant quotes to support Elizabeth’s initial characterisation of being prideful?
- “I could easily forgive his pride, if he had not mortified mine.”
-“I am determined that nothing but the very deepest love will induce me into matrimony.”
-“Your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others.”
-“Till this moment, I never knew myself.”
-“Had I been in love, I could not have been more wretchedly blind. But vanity, not love, has been my folly.”
-“He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman’s daughter; so far we are equal.”
what are some quotes to show Mr Darcy’s prejudice
- “Could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?”
- “She is tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me.”
- “All this, she must possess,” added Darcy, “and to all this she must yet add something more substantial, in the improvement of her mind by extensive reading.”
-“Disguise of every sort is my abhorrence.”
-“He was the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world, and everybody hoped that he would never come there again.”
-“I am in no humour at present to give consequence to young ladies who are slighted by other men.”
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ she is tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me “ - TOPIC SENTENCE
Topic sentence: Jane Austen uses The quote, “…..” as a prime example of Mr Darcy’s haughty and dismissive attitude towards Elizabeth Bennet, through this remark, she uses a variety of literary devices to convey Mr Darcy’s arrogance and social snobbery.
what adjectives could be used to describe Mr Darcy’s initial character
- arrogant
- conceited
- dismissive
-obnoxious - haughty
-standoffish - stoic
- unyielding
-reserved
what adjectives could be used to describe Mr Darcy’s later character
- transformative
- generous
- self-reflective
- gracious
-chivalrous - humble
-admiring
-sincere - compassionate
-affectionate
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ she is tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me “ - word choice of “ tolerable “
- The adjective “tolerable” is a weak, lukewarm descriptor, implying that Elizabeth is acceptable, but only to a very minimal degree.
- It carries a sense of endurance rather than admiration—something that is bearable but not genuinely pleasant. This reflects Darcy’s initial perception of her, as he views her not as someone of notable beauty or value but merely someone who he can “put up with.” - also carries a slight suggestion of a concession or allowance, as if Darcy is granting Elizabeth a small amount of approval, but only because he feels it necessary to do so. It hints at Darcy’s sense of superiority—his magnanimous act of tolerating her at all, as though he is doing her a favor by noticing her.
CONTEXTUAL: in the context of the period’s social expectations, beauty and status were highly intertwined. In Darcy’s eyes, Elizabeth does not fit the conventional standards of attractiveness required to be worthy of his attention. “Tolerable” suggests a judgment based on external appearance, which is a central theme in Austen’s critique of societal values
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ she is tolerable but not handsome enough to tempt me “ - word choice of “ NOT HANDSOME ENOUGH TO TEMPT ME “
- The phrase “not handsome enough to tempt me” further emphasises Darcy’s haughty attitude.
- The verb “tempt” is particularly significant because it evokes the notion of control and self-entitlement, suggesting that Darcy views himself as someone who has the power to choose and resist, as if Elizabeth’s physical appearance might only warrant his attention if it were of a higher standard. The adverb “enough” highlights the idea that Elizabeth does not meet his criteria, reinforcing the idea of a rigid social hierarchy where beauty plays a central role in one’s worth.
what are the literary techniques used in the quote “ she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me “
- DICTION - Darcy’s choice of words, like “ tolerable “ and “ tempt” is indicative of his haughty and judgemental nature - The language is cold and impersonal, with little regard for the emotional consequences of his words on Elizabeth.
- irony- There is dramatic irony here, as the audience is aware that Darcy will eventually fall in love with Elizabeth, who initially appears beneath him in terms of social standing. His own words, then, become a source of humor and insight into his character development, especially when contrasted with his future feelings toward her.
what is the writers intentions for the quote “ she is tolerable , but not handsome enough to tempt me “
Jane Austen’s intention here is to showcase Mr. Darcy’s character flaws early in the narrative. By presenting him as arrogant and judgmental, Austen critiques the class-based prejudices of her time. This comment highlights Darcy’s initial inability to see past social class and superficial qualities, a central theme in the novel
what is the writers craft for the quote “ she is tolerable , but not handsome enough to tempt me “
Austen’s craft lies in her use of dialogue to reveal character and advance the narrative. The directness of the language creates a sense of social distance between Darcy and Elizabeth, while also showing his inability to appreciate the depth of her character at this point in the story. By using a seemingly trivial comment about appearance, Austen also establishes the importance of superficial judgments in the early stages of the novel, highlighting the tension between inner qualities and external appearances.
what is the tone for the quote “ she is tolerable , but not handsome enough to tempt me “
a simple declarative statement, allows Darcy’s words to stand starkly on their own. There is no attempt to soften or qualify his opinion, indicating his firm belief in his assessment of Elizabeth. The tone of the quote is blunt and dismissive, reflecting Darcy’s early arrogance and lack of self-awareness. This moment is a turning point in the novel, setting up his eventual growth and transformation.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “You know how I detest it, unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner” - word choices
“Detest”: This strong verb highlights Darcy’s intense disdain for something as seemingly innocuous as dancing. The use of such an extreme word emphasizes his haughty, prideful nature. “Detest” is not just dislike but implies an almost visceral repulsion, showing Darcy’s reluctance to engage in social practices that he views as beneath him.
“Particularly”: This adverb suggests that Darcy’s dislike for dancing is not universal but contingent on his familiarity with his partner. This creates a sense of exclusivity in his character, implying that he only finds value in social interaction with those he considers worthy. This highlights his elitism and social segregation.
“Acquainted”: This verb further reinforces Darcy’s sense of superiority. To be “acquainted” with someone is to have a certain level of familiarity, which suggests that Darcy’s involvement in social rituals is only reserved for those he deems appropriate, implying a conditional openness.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “You know how I detest it, unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner” - tone
The tone of Darcy’s statement is :
- dismissive
- condescending
- He doesn’t simply state his preference; he communicates a strong sense of superiority in his refusal to engage in dancing unless it serves his personal standards. His words are not just an expression of dislike but a reflection of his broader views on social interaction, suggesting that he only partakes in activities that align with his sense of worthiness.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “You know how I detest it, unless I am particularly acquainted with my partner” - writers intentions
Austen uses Mr. Darcy’s words to expose his elitism, pride, and social detachment.
- The seemingly trivial detail of his distaste for dancing allows Austen to illustrate larger social commentaries on class, manners, and the constraints of society. Darcy’s reluctance to participate in dances with people of lower status indirectly critiques the rigid social hierarchy of the time.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?” - word choices
“Rejoice”: The verb “rejoice” connotes excessive, almost exaggerated happiness or celebration. Mr. Darcy’s choice of this word implies that he feels no satisfaction or pleasure in acknowledging the social inferiority of Elizabeth’s connections. His refusal to “rejoice” suggests an expectation that she should feel the same way, highlighting his snobbish attitudes. This word also emphasizes Darcy’s emotional detachment from the situation; he is unwilling to experience any positive emotion over something he deems beneath him.
“Inferiority”: This noun is a key choice that reveals Darcy’s views on social status. By using “inferiority,” he frames the Bennet family and their connections as not just different, but lesser. The term reflects the rigid class structure of Regency-era England, where social stratification was seen as an unchangeable fact of life. The use of “inferiority” therefore aligns with the novel’s ongoing critique of such social hierarchies.
“Connections”: In the context of the social class system of the time, “connections” refer to a person’s social network, familial ties, and status. Darcy’s use of this term suggests that he values social reputation and the people with whom one associates as essential components of a person’s worth. The term “connections” thus emphasizes his superficial judgment of others based on their social position rather than individual character.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?” - literary techniques
Rhetorical Question: Mr. Darcy’s use of a rhetorical question—“could you expect me to rejoice…?”—is significant in that it not only highlights his disdain for the Bennet family but also seeks to provoke a reaction from Elizabeth. It is designed to assert his viewpoint as unarguable. The question also indicates Darcy’s belief in the superiority of his own values and his expectation that others, particularly Elizabeth, share them.
Irony: There is an ironic tension in this line. Darcy believes that Elizabeth should feel similarly embarrassed about her family’s “inferiority,” but, as the reader knows, Elizabeth takes great pride in her own values, which do not align with Darcy’s elitist views. This irony deepens throughout the novel as Elizabeth’s rejection of Darcy’s initial proposal reveals the limitations of his pride and social assumptions.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?” - writers intentions
Through this line, Jane Austen uses Mr. Darcy to critique the class system and social snobbery of the time. Darcy’s words embody the elitism that Austen satirizes throughout the novel. By highlighting Darcy’s prejudices, Austen aims to expose the harmful nature of rigid social class structures, suggesting that they prevent genuine understanding and personal growth.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?” - tone
- dismissive
- disdainful.
Darcy speaks with a cold, almost imperious attitude, as though Elizabeth’s social status is a subject of such insignificance that it would be beneath him to take it seriously. His use of the word “rejoice” further enhances the tone of superiority, as he suggests that someone of his elevated status would never “rejoice” in something so beneath him. This tone reflects Darcy’s initial arrogance and prejudice, which plays a crucial role in his character development. It is only later in the novel that he begins to recognize the flawed nature of his initial judgments, but here, his tone is unmistakably one of haughty detachment.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “He was the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world.” - word choices
” proudest” - adjective + superlative - emphasizing Mr. Darcy’s extreme pride
- ” proudest “ implies that Darcy is not merely proud in a neutral sense but that his pride is unparalleled, suggesting it defines him completely.
The word “disagreeable” further emphasises his negative traits, presenting him as difficult and unpleasant. The superlative nature of both terms (proudest, most disagreeable) stresses his character flaws.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “He was the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world.” - literary techniques
Superlatives: “Proudest” and “most disagreeable” elevate these traits to extremes, reflecting how central these characteristics are to his identity at the start of the novel.
Hyperbole - “ most disagreeable man in the world” - conveys a sense of personal conflict, meaning that Darcy’s social conduct creates unease and discomfort among those around him. It’s an intentionally vague description—suggesting that his personality isn’t merely an irritation but a repellent force. The word “world” in this context is a clear example of hyperbole, exaggerating Darcy’s disagreeability to the extreme.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “He was the proudest, most disagreeable man in the world.” - tone and writers craft/intentions
Austen introduces Darcy through the eyes of others, primarily Elizabeth’s, showing the negative view of his pride before it is nuanced later in the narrative. This builds tension and foreshadows the eventual revelation of his vulnerabilities, allowing readers to see his character as multifaceted.
Structure and Tone:
The tone here is sharply critical, a tone of judgment that invites the reader to view Darcy with skepticism. Austen uses this judgmental tone to highlight Darcy’s initial arrogance, which will later be tempered as the narrative progresses.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ “My good opinion once lost is lost forever” - close word analysis
- “Good opinion”: The phrase “good opinion” is significant because it reflects not just judgment, but a value placed on the approval and perceptions of others. In the context of Mr. Darcy, this phrase highlights his social pride and vanity—his worth is partially determined by how others perceive him. The emphasis on “good” reveals that his approval is not easily earned, and his high standards of judgment are rooted in his social status and class-consciousness.
“Once lost”: The phrase “once lost” suggests a permanent shift—once his opinion of someone changes, it cannot be reversed. This implies Darcy’s rigidity and inflexibility. The idea that something once lost cannot be regained mirrors his character: he is unwilling to forgive slights or show mercy, which points to the themes of pride and class superiority that dominate his behavior.
“Lost forever”: The use of “forever” is the key hyperbolic element. It is an exaggeration that reflects Darcy’s absolute view of human relationships and his high sense of self-worth. The idea of something being lost “forever” conveys his emotional detachment—Darcy doesn’t allow space for forgiveness or growth in relationships. This harsh permanence also underscores the contrast between Darcy’s self-perception and the more flexible, empathetic characters like Elizabeth Bennet.
what is the grade 9 analysis for the quote “ “My good opinion once lost is lost forever” - literary techniques
Hyperbole: The phrase “lost forever” is an extreme exaggeration. It not only highlights Darcy’s inability to forgive but also shows his inflated sense of pride. The word “forever” suggests an unwillingness to reconsider or soften his views, reinforcing his inflexibility. This creates a sense of cold finality that reflects his earlier emotional rigidity. His attitude contrasts with Elizabeth’s capacity for growth, implying that Darcy’s personal development will require him to relinquish this uncompromising stance.
Characterization through dialogue: This line is a direct expression of Darcy’s pride and sense of superiority, a key feature of his character at this point in the novel. It encapsulates his social arrogance, as Darcy believes that losing his “good opinion” would have significant consequences for someone’s standing in society. This highlights how much his world revolves around social perceptions and the judgments he makes about others based on their social standing.
Repetition: The repetition of “lost” intensifies the finality and permanence of Darcy’s opinion. It mirrors his complete dismissal of those who have offended him. This repetition, paired with the word “forever”, emphasizes Darcy’s unwillingness to reconsider, showing his emotional immaturity and inability to appreciate others’ complexities.