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Advice to Lizzy from others regarding Wickham   Written by Karen G (4/27/2010 11:03 p.m.)
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Mr. Bennet's comments to Elizabeth regarding Wickham are (Ch 24):


"So, Lizzy," said he one day, "your sister is crossed in love, I find. I congratulate her. Next to being married, a girl likes to be crossed in love a little now and then. It is something to think of, and gives her a sort of distinction among her companions. When is your turn to come? You will hardly bear to be long outdone by Jane. Now is your time. Here are officers enough at Meryton to disappoint all the young ladies in the country. Let Wickham be your man. He is a pleasant fellow, and would jilt you creditably."

I think I've never quite understood what Mr. Bennet was getting at, unless it really was merely teasing Elizabeth to be like her sister Jane, "crossed in love". Does anyone think that Mr. Bennet was trying to give Lizzy any commendation in any way? Or is he pointing out to Lizzy that she should only be crossed in love but not think seriously about him beyond that. After all, he ended his suggestion with the fact that he'll "jilt" Lizzy.

Mr. Bennet's comments are the only direct information we get from Mr. Bennet to Lizzy about Wickham.

Then later, when their Aunt Gardiner comes to visit, she gives some sound advice re: Wickham and also references Lizzy's father (Ch. 25):
"You are too sensible a girl, Lizzy, to fall in love merely because you are warned against it; and therefore I am not afraid of speaking openly. Seriously, I would have you be on your guard. Do not involve yourself or endeavour to involve him in an affection which the want of fortune would make so very imprudent. I have nothing to say against him; he is a most interesting young man; and if he had the fortune he ought to have, I should think you could not do better. But as it is, you must not let your fancy run away with you. You have sense, and we all expect you to use it. Your father would depend on your resolution and good conduct, I am sure. You must not disappoint your father."

I guess I am almost surprised that Mrs. Gardiner references Mr. Bennet, since you would think that she would be more partial to her husband's sister (despite her silliness), and think of her more than her sister-in-law's husband. She says more for Mr. Bennet than he himself has said.

Any thoughts on this?


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