Contrast Jane and Elizabeth in Pride and Prejudice.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Jane Austen's novel Pride and Prejudice is the contrast between the two main female characters, Jane and Elizabeth Bennet. While they are sisters and share some common traits, such as intelligence, kindness and loyalty, they also differ significantly in their personalities, perspectives and choices. In this blog post, I will explore some of the main points of contrast between Jane and Elizabeth, and how they affect their relationships with others, especially with the men they love.

Jane is the eldest and most beautiful of the Bennet sisters. She is gentle, modest and sweet-tempered. She always sees the best in people and never speaks ill of anyone. She is very close to Elizabeth, who is her confidante and friend. Jane falls in love with Mr. Bingley, a wealthy and amiable gentleman, who is equally smitten with her. However, their romance is hindered by several obstacles, such as Mr. Bingley's snobbish sisters, his influential friend Mr. Darcy, and Jane's own reserve and diffidence. Jane is too shy to express her feelings openly, and too trusting to suspect any malice or interference from others. She suffers silently when Mr. Bingley leaves Netherfield without a word, and patiently waits for his return, even when all hope seems lost.

Elizabeth is the second eldest and the most lively and witty of the Bennet sisters. She is intelligent, spirited and independent. She has a sharp tongue and a keen sense of humor. She is not afraid to speak her mind and challenge the opinions of others. She is also very close to Jane, whom she admires and protects. Elizabeth despises Mr. Darcy, a proud and arrogant gentleman, who insults her at their first meeting and tries to separate Jane and Mr. Bingley. However, as the story progresses, Elizabeth learns more about Mr. Darcy's true character and his actions behind the scenes. She realizes that he is not only a man of wealth and rank, but also of honor and generosity. She gradually develops a respect and admiration for him, which eventually turns into love.

The contrast between Jane and Elizabeth is not only evident in their personalities, but also in their views on love and marriage. Jane believes in true love and hopes to find happiness with Mr. Bingley. She does not care about his fortune or status, but only about his character and affection. She is willing to overlook his flaws and forgive his mistakes. She is also ready to accept his proposal without any hesitation or doubt. Elizabeth, on the other hand, has a more realistic and pragmatic approach to love and marriage. She values her own happiness and independence above all else. She does not want to marry for convenience or obligation, but only for respect and esteem. She is not easily impressed by wealth or rank, but rather by merit and virtue. She is also not afraid to reject a proposal that does not suit her, even if it comes from a man of high position or fortune.

The contrast between Jane and Elizabeth also influences their interactions with other characters in the novel. Jane is loved and admired by everyone, except for those who are envious or prejudiced against her. She has no enemies or rivals, but only friends and admirers. She gets along well with everyone, even with those who are rude or mean to her, such as Miss Bingley or Lady Catherine de Bourgh. She never argues or quarrels with anyone, but always tries to be polite and civil. Elizabeth, however, has a more mixed reputation among the society. She is praised for her beauty and wit by some, but criticized for her impertinence and pride by others. She has many enemies and rivals, such as Miss Bingley, Lady Catherine de Bourgh or Mr. Wickham. She often clashes with those who oppose or offend her, such as Mr. Darcy or Mr. Collins. She does not hesitate to express her disdain or contempt for those who deserve it.

In conclusion, Jane and Elizabeth are two very different but equally admirable heroines in Pride and Prejudice. They represent two different ways of being a woman in the 19th century England: one that conforms to the social norms and expectations of femininity; one that challenges them with her own individuality and agency.