Bingley and Jane are also intelligent

Posted by Linda on December 04, 1997 at 13:47:46:

In response to Respect for intelligence, written by kates on December 03, 1997 at 18:46:54

]
] Mr Bingly is a good man but none too bright, ... [snip] ... Jane (none too bright herself) ...

Although Bingley and Jane do not have lively wits, as does Lizzy, it does not mean that they are stupid. In fact, I think that JA tells us just the opposite.

V 1, Ch 4 (4)

On the strength of Darcy's regard Bingley had the firmest reliance, and of his judgment the highest opinion. In understanding, Darcy was the superior. Bingley was by no means deficient, but Darcy was clever.

While Jane chooses to put the best face on everything, I do not think that this means that she is deficient in understanding.

V 2, Ch 1 (24)

If they believed him attached to me, they would not try to part us; if he were so, they could not succeed. By supposing such an affection, you make every body acting unnaturally and wrong, and me most unhappy. Do not distress me by the idea. I am not ashamed of having been mistaken -- or, at least, it is slight, it is nothing in comparison of what I should feel in thinking ill of him or his sisters. Let me take it in the best light, in the light in which it may be understood.
and
V 2, Ch 10

``To Jane herself,'' she exclaimed, ``there could be no possibility of objection. All loveliness and goodness as she is! Her understanding excellent, her mind improved, and her manners captivating."

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REPLIES:

• Sparkle Cassia 18:28:40 12/04/97 (2)
  • I agree Constanza 13:24:29 12/05/97 (1)
    • Yes, Jane certainly is no fool Mark 14:04:30 12/05/97 (0)

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