The Role Of Estates Depiction In Pride And Prejudice
In the novel Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet is touring Darcy’s Pemberley estate in Derbyshire during her stay with her aunt and uncle, the Gardiners. The estate is symbolic of Darcy’s fluctuating character and his transformation from arrogance to nobility. Moreover, it also serves to symbolize Elizabeth’s growing attractions and changing attitude towards him. Initially, the estate is described as a “large, handsome, stone building”, representing Darcy’s material wealth, status, and his standoffish, stone-cold demeanor when he is first introduced Elizabeth.
The portrayal of a “stream of some natural importance” represents Darcy’s inheritance and sense of superiority. The stream serves as a constant reminder of the social and economic disparity between Elizabeth and Darcy. The way the stream “swelled into greater” exemplifies Darcy’s swelling and expanding pride during his proposal to Elizabeth. His proposal represented his first attempt to suppress his pride and overcome social barriers, however, ironically, his view of Elizabeth as a marriage partner contradicts with his initial perceptions of her as an unsuitable dance partner. Moreover, the depictions of the estate “without artificial appearance” and as “neither formal, nor falsely adorned” contrast with the previously alleged conceptions of Darcy; he is shown to be elegantly refined without the snobbish, superficial, and superior attitudes associated with Lady Catherine De Bourgh and the upper strata of society.
The “natural beauty” of the environment and surroundings of Pemberley are reflective of Darcy’s self-improvement and lack of pretension and, overall, reveal his underlying and essential goodness. Throughout the novel, Elizabeth and Darcy are often separated or prevented from interacting with one another within the estates of Longbourn, Netherfield, and Pemberley. However, once they are outdoors or in a natural setting, they can openly and honestly share their thoughts and feelings and begin to understand one another. This contrast between nature and society is also a parallel between the loose constraints and the rigid social regulations of class distinctions. Austen’s portrayal of a proper marriage between Charlotte and Mr. Collin’s marriage further exemplifies the social limitations and boundaries on women Austen urges should be overstepped, a concept that was revolutionary during Austen’s time.
Furthermore, Elizabeth’s visit to the manor serves as a catalyst for her emerging affections and her budding romance with Darcy, as she realizes the true nature of Darcy through the presentations of his estate and his welcoming attitude despite her recent rejection. Moreover, Mrs. Reynold’s compliments towards her master further affirm his generous nature and leave a positive impression on Elizabeth. After her visit, she exclaims that “to be mistress of Pemberley might be something,” indicating her regret for her earlier decision. However, her acceptance leads to her surprise and delight after she realizes that his unchanging devotion and affections towards her preface the second proposal.
