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I rather like this concept   Written by Chandra S (1/12/2004 10:10 p.m.) in consequence of the missive, Mrs. B. delights in being vexed, penned by Captain Everett
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It does seem reasonable. I have also known couples like this, for whom verbal sparring seemed to be the main mode of communication. I can certainly see the possibility that Mrs. Bennet depends on Mr. Bennet's acerbic nature to provide the drama that she thrives on, to give her "nerves" an excuse and maintain her constant flutterings.

]However, I find myself thinking that maybe Mrs. Bennet isn't entirely displeased with it.

She certainly doesn't seem to behave as though she resents it or is angered by it. I have seen much commentary that suggests she didn't understand it, and perhaps she doesn't entirely, but she must know that he is rarely serious. Still, she behaves and addresses him as though she is fond of him - Chapter One alone has her calling him "my dear" no less than five times. Even if this is the force of long habit, it is a form of love/affection so complete in itself that the Greeks had a word for it - storge - which I've heard translated/described as "a comfortable old shoe sort of love" wherein people have grown accustomed to each other's quirks and would be lonely without them.
It seems sometimes that some of her responses to him are comfortable and familiar - I really doubt that the conversation about Mr. Bingley moving into the neighborhood is the first time she has ever said "Nonsense, how can you talk so." Especially following so closely on "My dear Mr. Bennet, how can you be so tiresome! You must know..." etc. It has that feel of something she says often, as though these are her usual responses to his deadpan comments, and were precisely the comeback he is expecting.

] --It's a desperate need for attention - any kind of attention,

This idea has merit. His teasing is surely preferable to his not speaking to her at all.

And I love your final statement:

]I also believe, if he stopped, she'd take it as a sign of complete rejection.

I am interested to hear other readers' reaction to this.


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