The Price Of Love By Jane Austen - 1315 Words

The Price of Love Within the novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, the concept of marriage is presented in the form of a contract, true sense of love, and what society deems is acceptable, which leads to different outcomes as a result of the actions taken throughout the novel. The union of marriage during this period of time was highly prioritized within society. While it was prioritized by society, there were different motives behind the holy union. Marriage was seen as an accomplishment and way of life in some eyes. In addition, society which is comprised of different classes viewed marriage differently. The wealthy class mainly saw marriage a business arrangement that brought similarly positioned individuals together. The†¦show more content†¦Collins. In the beginning of the novel Charlotte and Elizabeth who are friends are constantly surrounded with the pressure of getting married. Elizabeth who shows an interest in Mr. Wickham receives a proposal from her relative Mr. Collins. Elizabeth rejects the proposal, which causes an uproar in her family. The idea that marriage can be used to save one s life is showcased throughout the novel. In the eyes of Mrs. Bennett Elizabeth marrying Mr. Collins would save the family by allowing their property to stay within their family instead of being removed from them. Elizabeth who is an outspoken women, who adheres to her own wishes symbolizes the true quality of what a woman should possess. However her friend Charlotte symbolizes many women at the time who choose a life of marriage not for love, but for comfortability. In chapter 22 Charlotte states to Elizabeth, I am not romantic, you know, I never was, I never was, I ask only a comfortable home, and considering Mr. Collin s character, connection and situation of life, I am convinced that my chance of happiness with him is as fair as most people can boast on entering the marriage state.(p.76). She admits to Elizabeth that she does not love Mr. Collins, but she will still be happy due to his status and wealth. It is ironic that Elizabeth would not compromise her beliefs even to marry her own relative in order to save her family, while charlotte does without any hesitation. Given Charlotte s age