The Confident Cousin
"The idea of Mr. Collins, with all his solemn composure, being run away with his feelings, made Elizabeth so near laughing that she could not use the short pause he allowed in any attempt to stop him further, and he continued:
'My reasons for marrying are, first, that I think it a right thing for every clergyman in easy circumstances (like myself) to set the example of matrimony in his parish. Secondly, that I am convinced that it will add very greatly to my happiness; and thirdly–which perhaps I ought to have mentioned earlier, that it is the particular advice and recommendation of the very noble lady whom I have the honour of calling patroness.'" (Austen 78).
This excerpt is taken from the novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. On the morning after the Netherfield ball, Mr. Collins decides to propose to Elizabeth Bennett since he plans on leaving in a few days. After hearing his request to speak to her, Elizabeth is caught with surprise but in a vexed and embarrassed way. When Elizabeth hears him talking in an officious manner, she holds back laughter at the peculiar sight. Mr. Collins then states 3 reasons for marrying Elizabeth: to set an example of marriage for rich clergymen, to make himself happy, and to appease Lady Catherine.
Mr. Collins' idea that a proposal is a checklist of reasons for the match is significant because it demonstrates his ridiculousness as a character. He only sees marriage as a practical manner rather than for love. He gives her his reasons as a businessman would provide a contract to a client.
His reasons for their marriage also demonstrate his selfishness. Mr. Collins' justifications are made to his liking and completely disregard Elizabeth's feelings. For example, he states that "it will add very greatly to [his] happiness." Mr. Collins' view of marriage depicts the Romantic movement through the social standards of the time by highlighting the limitations placed on women in marriage. Mr. Collins has confidence in her acceptance because he knows Elizabeth is encouraged to marry a wealthy man.
If Mr. Collins addressed Elizabeth differently, would Elizabeth's answer change?
If Mr. Collins were to live in today's society, do you think he would be able to get married? Why?
While it may seem ridiculous to us now to view marriage only as a practical matter and leave love out, we must look at this in its historical context. It was very common practice at the time. However, I think it may have been Jane Austen's intention to show this practice in a satirical light in order to inspire change in the society of her time.
ReplyDeleteI like your analysis of this passage and your detailed perspective of Mr. Collins as a character. I believe in our modern era, Collins would find it difficult to marry because most individuals seek true love in marriage now. I agree that his attitude toward Elizabeth is selfish and inconsiderate; however, during the romantic era, this attitude towards marriage was completely acceptable, and even encouraged. I think if Collins valued the idea of love and respect, Elizabeth would've been more inclined to accept his proposal.
ReplyDeleteI think you did well on this. I think Mr. Collins sees himself as a suitable husband, but many others do not. I think thats kind of ironic. I like how you talked about the ways he tried to convince Elizabeth that he was husband material. If Mr Collins live in today's day and age, I think he would still get married, but I think it would be much harder for him to find a wife. I think this would be because although there are some people who mainly look for a wealthy man, it is more common now that people look for someone they truly love.
ReplyDeleteYou did a great analysis of Mr. Collins proposal. It's clear how ridiculous are his reasons, thinking of marriage as a checklist instead of something based on love. We can easily see how selfish he is and how little he cares of Elizabeth's feelings. Elizabeth may have acted different if he proposed more respectfully, but she would still have rejected it. He would have it more difficult to get married in today's society, but he could do it, there are still people who thinks like that.
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