Young Mr. Collins
Posted by Carolyn B on November 25, 1997 at 19:17:05:
In response to Interesting point!, written by Helen on November 25, 1997 at 11:07:53
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] I agree. I also think that dramatists' tendencies to make him older show up JA's creativity: Mr. Collins as pompous middle-aged clergyman is a real stereotype... Mr. Collins as a young man who is devoid of any real commitment to what his job involves, and is stupid yet devoted to his own preferment is a truly original creation!
] Helen
The more I think about this, it seems he is trying to carry off dignity, etc. without the years or experience to back him up.
All his comments about what is acceptable and correct come more from something he read somewhere (assuming he does read) or more likely something Lady C told him rather than anything he learned through living life.
And then there was that annoying comment he makes to Elizabeth in Chapter 18 before he accosts Darcy with an introduction:
"Pardon me for neglecting to profit by your advice [...blah blah...] I consider myself more fitted by education and habitual study to decide what is right than a young lady like yourself." And he's only a couple of years older than her!
Personally I would have smacked him at that point ; p
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