Betel Ali Multimedia Writing and Rhetoric Mr.

Jeff Bain-Conkin February 25 2012

Rhetorical Analysis of Pride and Prejudice

People throughout generations have formulated ways to differentiate themselves from one another through gender, wealth and social class. In the classic novel Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen uses characterization, irony and extensive dialogue to portray the skewed morals and values of the British society of her time. Through the use of these elements Austen shows that at times, the values of a society can frame the very nature of how one interacts with others and understands ones self. However, when faced with these obstacles, one can also find a way to better gain an insight on what is important. Austen skillfully frames the emphasis society puts on social class and highlights the obstacles that women faced on the issues of manners, education marriage, and love. Pride and Prejudice tells a compelling story of a very intelligent young woman transitioning from a young girl to an adult under the constant scrutiny of a wealth obsessed society. When those around her conform to the limiting standards of society, she insists on understanding the world through a very rational perspective. She is fascinated by the idea of a woman not defined by her physical beauty or her obedience. And she is more so fascinated by the idea of true love and a man open to her beliefs and opinions. The limitations set on women in this 19th century British society, are vividly depicted through her day to day experiences. She shamelessly opposes those with ignorant beliefs and stands as a symbol of the self dependent and passionate future women to come.

Elizabeth Benet, a protagonist, is shown to be stubbornly intelligent and independent as she turns down a marriage proposal from the ignorant and charmless suitor, Mr. Collins. Despite the constant pressure from those closest to her on the importance of her finding a husband in order to be financially stable, Elizabeth hastily rejects the idea of marrying without the foundation of love. It is shown that Elizabeth finds the idea of romance and courtship more compelling than marrying for the utter reason of having a financial provider. She finds the regular skills and talents women are encouraged to have such as, being able to play the piano and learning valueless history as a binding chain keeping her from reaching her full intellectual potential. As Mr. Collins continues to suggest how her refusal is only a mere sign of her interest in him and how her decision is just a temporary act of playful teasing, Elizabeth is enraged by how her thoughts hold no value in the face of men. This scene generally summarizes the very narrow and belittling view men had of women. Jane Austens usage of characterization as illustrated above shows her disapproval of the unrefined roles men and women played in this society. As the reader gains a further understanding of these cultural barriers, he/she feels contempt towards those who are blindly simple minded and sympathy for those who are oppressed by these social laws. The interaction between Elizabeth and Mr. Collins shows how those who unquestioningly obey the moral standards set by society mold their values and relationships with out the input of passion. On the other hand, Mrs. Benet, a flat static character, is shown to be desperate and shallow as she goes out of her way to convince her five young daughters that their sole purpose in life is to find a man to take care of them. She goes around from one event to the next displaying and advertising her daughters to the men of her town, bragging about their qualities, or lack thereof. To those observing, she seems like a mother looking out for the best interest of

her children. But as she is tested thorough time and key moments in the novel, she fails to show any redeemable qualities, for her morals are tainted by her hunger for wealth and a higher social status. Mrs. Benet represents all the flaws in the views of the society and ironically juxtaposes everything Elizabeth, her daughter, stands for. Jane Austen uses Mrs. Benet as a representation of how one can easily be pulled into conforming to social pressures. The portrayal of the character is almost unfair but necessary as she is shown to have no boundaries or reservations as were many of the female characters throughout the novel. Mrs. Benets character also shows how women of that time stood in their own way by willfully accepting the level of oppression cast upon them. The novel continues to show the effect of societal pressure on people like Elizabeth as she constantly finds herself in quarrels with others, even those she has feelings for. The fact that Elizabeth is surrounded by people who are obsessed with public appearance and wealth, encourage her to make hasty judgments about those she newly meets. Elizabeths prejudices towards those who are superficial hinder her ability to trust people. She finds herself clashing heads with her love interest Mr. Darcy, a wealthy and prideful man, as she instantly concludes that he represents all that she dislikes about men. Her relationship with Darcy takes a turn for the interesting as Darcy finds her wit and strong opinions compelling and refreshing. Elizabeth, being the romantic that she is, is initially of put by Darcys reserved and harsh personality but later falls for his generosity and willingness to understand her beliefs. Elizabeths relationship with Darcy is one of the most dynamic relationships since their interactions underscore the wrong doings of both sexes.

Pride and Prejudice is a novel that encompasses a range of gender relation and societal issues. Jane Austen encompasses all these themes in a complex love story that highlights the importance of mutual respect and individuality. The development of complex characters that each serve a purpose in exposing the flaws in societal values serve as an anchor in delivering Austens message to the people of her time. She highlights the dull and passion lacking ways of men and women all over Britain and the unappealing consequences of greed. She uses an intelligent character to appeal to young girls though a voice and perspective that is unique and thought provoking. To her intended audience Austens representation of society was probably shocking and offensive. She uses ironic relationships and views to effectively mock those who cannot see beyond luxury and public admiration. The themes in this novel can be used to address issues that all societies, including present societies face. Gender relations, women rights and education have improved substantially throughout the centuries but still remain to be completely abolished. Societys values remain to mold our beliefs and understanding of everything around us, but it is when we step out of the focused one dimensional perspective of society that we discovers our true values and passions.