Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: Redefining Power
In the world of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, power takes on a nuanced form, one that challenges conventional notions and redefines the agency of women. Elizabeth Bennet, a character distinguished by her intelligence, wit, and determination, demonstrates how women have the potential to “control their fate and exercise real power,” even with the limitations of the patriarchal 19th century English society. Power for women during this time was traditionally marked by the ability to secure an advantageous marriage– one that elevates their wealth and social status. Austen even sets up this framework for success and power in the opening paragraph, “it is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.” Thus, this ideal of marriage is not just true for women, but men as well. Elizabeth is compelling as her desire for marriage is not driven by monetary gains but rather she is "resolved to act in that manner, which will, in my own opinion, constitute my happiness, without reference to you, or to any person so wholly unconnected with me." Elizabeth expands the purview of power for women during this time as marriage goes beyond just a transactional affair but rather one where your own goals, independent of your family and husband, are considered as well. Through Elizabeth, the ideal of power shifts from marital arrangements to one that is rooted in autonomy, agency, and the pursuit of happiness.
For Elizabeth, love is the most important element of marriage. She repeatedly establishes this boundary going beyond precedents set by her society and even at a cost to her family’s best financial interests. When Collins attempts to persuade Elizabeth to accept his proposal, she maintains, “I am perfectly serious in my refusal.- You could not make me happy, and I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world who would make you so.” Elizabeth controls her own fate in this situation by playing the role of a feminist killjoy– someone who is uncomfortable with the norms of society and acts against these systems even if it comes at the expense of others’ happiness. Elizabeth's choice of words reflects her refusal to make excuses or soften her stance. She simply states that marrying Mr. Collins would not bring her happiness, and that, for her, is reason enough to reject his proposal.
Even though Elizabeth does ultimately get married, it is still unconventional in the sense that Darcy is her equal rather than the typical power imbalances seen in Georgian-era unions. Their relationship is characterized by a rare intellectual compatibility, where they engage in stimulating conversations and share mutual respect. This is evident in the contrast with other marriages, such as Mr. Collins and Catherine or Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, where there is a palpable disconnect between the partners. Catherine actively distances herself from Mr. Collins, while Mr. Bennet remains aloof from his wife's matrimonial endeavors. Despite societal pressures and expectations, Elizabeth makes a conscious choice to marry Darcy, driven by her own pursuit of happiness rather than succumbing to societal dictates. This defiance against conventionality underscores Elizabeth's independence of thought and action.
However, there is privilege inherent in Elizabeth's ability to repeatedly turn down marriage proposals that are financially necessary for her family. Elizabeth's affections for Darcy ultimately lead to a fortunate outcome, but it's worth considering that had her feelings not developed, she could have found herself in a less favorable position. While there is undoubtedly power in reclaiming autonomy in romantic affairs, marriage had to be a calculated move for women, serving as their primary means of financial support and social stability. Catherine, for instance, may not be entirely content in her marriage, but she finds protection and stability within it, making the best of her circumstances. In this way, Catherine demonstrates a pragmatic approach to finding power within the constraints of her society, leveraging the institution of marriage to secure her own interests. While her power may not manifest in the same overtly independent manner as Elizabeth's, Catherine's ability to make the best of her circumstances underscores the complexities of women succeeding.
Elizabeth has a strong sense of self and holds real power by unapologetically exercising her will and being strongly guided by her ethical standards. When confronted with Darcy's listing of traits he deems essential for an accomplished woman, Elizabeth's response is nothing short of resolute. Rather than passively accepting or subtly rebuffing Darcy's remarks, she boldly challenges the absurdity of his expectations, retorting, "I never saw such a woman." While readers could interpret this as a sarcastic remark and the other characters viewed this as condescending, Elizabeth continues to act as a feminist killjoy. She meets Darcy's remarks head-on, refusing to compromise her beliefs or diminish her own worth. In a society where women were often relegated to the role of obedient wives and daughters, Elizabeth's unwillingness to play along with Darcy's antiquated notions of femininity stands to illustrate her authenticity.
Elizabeth’s struggles in society and her role in it ring true generations after its setting. Women continue to face limitations in society, yet it is our responsibility to proactively work against forces to control and fate and exercise power.
