Quick Index Board Index Home FAQ Site Map

View thread | Previous message | Next message


Ducking between crossed swords....   Written by Lia (5/9/2007 10:13 a.m.) in consequence of the missive, I am afraid we are going to cross swords again!, penned by jeremy
Are you new?

I find myself in partial agreement with both Robbin and Jeremy.

I think it would take something very specific and directed to undo the impression caused by Darcy's initial insult. While the exchange between Darcy and Elizabeth may be seen as flirtatious, it also borders on the argumentative from Lizzy's perspective, so I do not find it at all surprising that she does not see this as flirting. His offer of dancing a reel, in this context, was also not seen as serious.

Darcy's interest is obvious to Caroline (and probably the others) in part because he was open and explicit about his admiration of her "fine eyes," and his actions would be understood in that context. Lizzy was not privy to that information.

IMO the point at which Lizzy should have understood his change is the ball at Netherfield, when he asks her to dance. They do dance, and in such a public place even Lizzy could not presume he was asking her in order to despise her taste. We have no evidence that Darcy danced with anyone else (except, presumably, Bingley's sisters), so in dancing with her he has singled her out.

Lizzy's misjudgment of his character is a somwhat separate issue. She is prejudiced against him, ignoring his good qualities and willing to believe the worst, because he slighted her.


Previous message | Next message | Board index

All messages in the thread


Password:

Groupread is maintained by Myretta with WebBBS 3.21.


View thread | Previous message | Next message
Board index

Group Read Board Pride & Prejudice Board Emma Board Sense & Sensibility Board Persuasion Board Mansfield Park Board Northanger Abbey Board Austenuations Board Jane Austen's Life & Times Board Lady Catherine & Co. Board Library Board Virtual Views Board Ramble Board Meetings Board Newcomers' Board Milestones Board Help Board Pemberleans Board





- Jane Austen | Republic of Pemberley -

Quick Index Home Site Map JAInfo

© 2004 - 2012 The Republic of Pemberley

Get copyright permissions

Quantcast