1

INTRODUCTION

Literature was an art of written works that reflect the human experience using
language. It encompasses a wide range of genres, including poetry, prose, drama,
and fiction, each offering unique insights into cultures, societies, and individual
lives.
Through literature authors explore themes, characters, and settings to evoke emotions,
provoke thoughts, and convey messages to the readers. It was especially an artistic or
intellectual work of writing. It was one of the fine arts like painting, dance, music, etc.

Literature provided aesthetic pleasure to the readers. Literature differs from

other written works by only one additional trait, which is aesthetic beauty. If a written
work lacks aesthetic beauty and serves only utilitarian purposes, it is not literature.
The entire genre like poetry, drama, or prose is a blend of intellectual works and
has an aesthetic beauty of that work. When there was no aesthetic beauty in any
written work that was not pure literature.

Literature was an integral part of any society and had a profound effect on
ways and thinking of people of that society. Society was the only subject matter of
literature. It shaped a society and its beliefs. It served as a mirror to society,
illuminating human nature, emotions, and complexities. From ancient epics to
contemporary novels, poetry, and play, literature offers insight into diverse
perspectives, challenges societal norms, and provides solace or inspiration to readers.

Literature was the mirror of society and a form of art. The study of English
literature allowed people to develop innovative ideas and new ways of thinking about
the world. Literature was also crucial to learn stylistic and artistic conventions for
communication and writing. Studying literature was an enriching, eye-opening
experience. Studying literature allowed one to understand the philosophical
movements and ideas that permeated a particular culture at a particular time.
Literature can be classified into Indian literature, British literature, African literature,
American literature, Canadian literature etc, based on different countries and
language.

British literature primarily refered to all literature produced by British authors

from the United Kingdom, which includes England, Scotland, Northern Ireland,
 2

Wales, the Channel Islands, and Isle of Man. British literature includes works in Old,
Middle, and Modern English, each of which represents a different period. British
literature also includes early works written in Gaelic, Welsh, and Latin.

British literature had come to possess distinctive characteristics over the years.
People can fully appreciate it by learning the diverse types of literature that came to
play in its history. UK literature was often divided into British works in Latin, early
Celtic literature composed in the UK, Old English works, Middle English works, and
Modern English compositions. There were only a few surviving early UK literature
texts. Celts mostly made use of oral literature, and Henry VIII’s razing of
monasteries caused the obliteration of much of the world’s literary treasures.

Old English works were written between 450 and 1066. The most famous Old
English work was Beowulf. The oldest original texts of British literary works came
from this period, including "The Hymn of Creation" by the poet Caedmon. Works
written in Middle English were composed between 1066 and 1485. This historical
period began when William the Conqueror successfully united factions in England,
particularly the Normans and the Saxons, and when the Domesday Book was created.
Examples of the best-known works in this period are The Canterbury Tales by
Geoffrey Chaucer and Le Morte d’Arthur by Thomas Malory.

The Modern English era was composed of all literary works composed by
British authors beginning in the early 16th century and onward. This period can be
further categorised into diverse types of literature. The Renaissance period was
considered to lasted from 1500 to 1660 and was best remembered for works written
by William Shakespeare. During this period, sonnets and effusive forms of British
poetry also rose in popularity, such as the ones written by Thomas Wyatt and Edmund
Spenser.

Other periods making up the Modern English era include the Restoration Age,
the Romantic Period, the Victorian Period, and all later periods. Gothic novels also
became extremely popular in this era, particularly in the 18th century. Notable authors
in this era include John Locke of the Restoration Period, Sir Walter Scott and John
Keats of the Romantic Period, Alfred Lord Tennyson of the Victorian Period, and
Agatha Christie of the 20th century.
 3

Fiction was a literary genre composed of narratives that are not factual but
are, instead, products of the authors’ imaginations. Fiction was the opposite of
nonfiction, a literary genre consisting of historically accurate narratives about real
people or events. Fiction writers construct imaginary worlds, typically with
symbolism, thematic elements, and aesthetic value. The primary purpose of fiction
was to entertain the reader. Novels, novellas, and short stories are among the most
common fiction formats. This includes plays, comic books and graphic novels, fables,
and fairy tales, and even some types of poetry, such as narrative poems and epic
poems.

A novel was a long, narrative work of fiction. It was written in literary prose
that entertains and tells a contrived story with a chain of events that includes
characters, setting, dialogue, plot, conflict, climax and some kind of resolution. Novel
focused on character development more than plot. In any genre, it is the study of the
human psyche.

Novels were the longest genre of prose but there was no defined length
regarding what makes a novel and what makes a novella. The first was written in
classical Rome, Elizabethan England, and Japan. One of the best known, Don
Quixote, is often referenced as the beginnings of novel writing in Europe. Another
even more important contribution to the literary world was Tale of Genji, written in
1010 by Murasaki Shikibu. It was commonly referenced as the world’s first novel.
Some other quite early novels include The Life of Aesop, Dauphins, and Chloe,
Hysimine and Hysimines, and Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Most novels were
structured chronologically. Novels are part of the crowning achievement of literature
and novelists like Virginia Woolf, Ernest Hemingway, Henry James, and Jane Austen
achieved their greatness in literature.

Throughout history, some of the most influential women have been writers,
poets, and essayists; breaking social barriers, challenging the status quo, and
questioning the rules through the art of their writing. From the pioneering voices of
the late 18th and early 19th Century through to modern day feminist contemporaries
in the literary sphere, women have long shaped the landscape of literature, of
cultures around the world, and of history with their ingenious creative writing talents.
 4

Jane Austen was one of the earliest female writers to produce works that
critiqued and commented on the British landed gentry. She was one of the most well-
known and widely read English novelists of all times. Born on December 16, 1775, at
the rectory in the village of Steventon, in Hampshire, England. She was educated
mostly by her father and older brothers, and by her own reading. They moved to Bath
when her father retired in 1801. After he died in 1805, she moved around with her
mother. In 1809, they settled in Chawton, near Alton, Hampshire.

Austen's fascination with words and with the world of stories, began quite
early. In the 1790's, during her adolescence, she started authoring her own novels, the
first one being Love and Freindship [sic] a parody of romantic fiction organised as a
series of love letters. The second one, The History of England, was a thirty-four-page
parody of historical writing about England, with about thirteen watercolour miniatures
done by her elder sister, Cassandra. Later, Austen herself made fair copies of her early
works in three bound notebooks. These notebooks, containing novels, short stories,
poems as well as plays, are now referred to as Jane's Juvenilia.

In 1789, Austen decided to become a professional writer and she began to

write longer, more sophisticated works. Lady Susan, a short epistolary novel about a
woman written by Austen. It was published as Northanger Abbey by Austen's brother
Henry, following her death.

From 1796 to 1797, Austen was occupied with writing her second novel, First
Impressions. She would read it aloud to her parents in the evenings, as she did with
other novels, and soon it became an ‘established favourite’ within the Austen
household. The first draft of First Impressions was completed in 1797. Austen was
just twenty-one-years old at that time. This work was to be later published as Pride
and Prejudice.

Sense and Sensibility, Austen's second most-famous work, began yet another
epistolary story with the working title Elinor and Marianne. Though she started work
on it much before 1796, it was only in mid- 1798 that she picked it up again and
finished revising it. Between 1811 and 1816, Austen started to anonymously publish
her works. Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, and Emma
were all published during this time.
 5

In 1816, at the age of forty-one, Austen became ill with Addison’s disease.
However, she continued working, editing her older works, and even starting a new
novel called The Brothers (which would be published after her death as Sanditon).
Austen's condition, however, deteriorated to such an extent that she was forced to
completely stop writing. She died on July 18, 1817. It was only after Austen's death
that her identity was revealed to the public.

Austen work had achieved a fair amount of fame and financial success while
she was still alive, Austen's transformation into one of the greatest writers in English
history began only after her death. Her works started attracting scholarly attention in
the 1920s and came to be recognised as brilliant masterpieces and revealing
commentaries on the social conditions of Austen's time. She was best known for
writing books like Northanger Abbey, Pride and Prejudice, and Prejudice Mansfield.
Her works tend to explore many themes. Many of Austen's works feature social
critique. She criticises the social and class structure of the time. Many of her books
focus on middle class protagonists who are sent to live with wealthy family
members.

Some authors that were at the same time as Austen include Maria Edgeworth
and Frances Burney. There were not many female authors who were writing during
this period. Austen had a distinctive writing style that was laced with irony, parody,
and satire. She tends to employ a sense of realism in her narratives. Heyer was an
English novelist, she was heavily inspired by the novels of Jane Austen, they have
similar writing styles. Like Austen, Bronte was a classic English Novelist. She
focused on the themes of gender, social status, and marriage, like Austen's literary
focus.

In the present scenario, Austen's works became an important part of popular

culture. They are not only a part of the English Curriculum in schools and colleges,
but there are also many film and television adaptations of Emma, Mansfield Park,
Pride and Prejudice, and Sense and Sensibility. Austen enjoyed little fame during her
lifetime, with the help of these six full - length novels, she gained more status as a
writer. Her works describe the daily realities of life in Georgian and Regency
England.
 6

Austen was a writer who focused on plots which explored the dependence of
women on marriage, or women who were in the pursuit of economic security. Austen
used some setting to mock the courting rituals of the social elite. Her books
emphasised the restrictive role that women have in society. In characterisation,
Austen used the female figures to be the main characters of her novel. She described
women as what they really are and advocated a new idea of love and marriage using
her female narrative strategies. Her novels help the reader to understand about the
position of women in the society during her period. Marriage was a major theme in
Pride and Prejudice. This novel presents the complex romance between Mr. Darcy
and Elizabeth.

As a feminist novelist, Austen gave the message that all women should get
formal education. In Pride and Prejudice, Austen showed the character of Elizabeth
as an independent woman. Through Elizabeth Bennet, the author showed the struggle
of a woman's capacity for intelligence and identifying herself. Feminism was one of
the emerging themes in Jane Austen novels. In Pride and Prejudice, Austen portrayed
Elizabeth as a feminist character.

Feminism was a collection of movements and ideologies. It involved political

and sociological theories and philosophies concerned with issues of gender
difference, as well as a movement that advocated gender equality for women and
campaigns for women's rights and interests. This included seeking to establish equal
opportunities for women in education and employment. According to Ritzer
"Feminism is a kind of critical social theory which is included in social context,
political, economic, and history that is faced by injustice people".

Feminism was born to defend the rights and roles of women in society, as the
development of culture and social structure increasingly distinguish people feasible.
The difference between women and men developed into discrimination which then
triggers harassment. The feminist campaigns of the twentieth century made the right
to vote, public property, work, and education possible.

According to Ratna "Feminism is the concept of generalisation of women. A

critique of social theory which has the purpose is to obtain women's rights". Feminism
was not plainly important for women but for every sex, gender, caste, creed and more.
 7

It empowers the people and society. It strives for equality of the sexes, not the
superiority of women. This allows people to live freely and empower lives without
getting tied down by traditional restrictions. In other words, it benefits women as
well as men. For instance, while it advocated that women must be free to earn all
things. It tried to give freedom to all.

The beginning of the 18th century can be called as a starting point in the
history of feminism. Although there had been a debate for women who do get position
recognized in society, feminism had not been too much developed at that time. On
when it was emerged that woman who wrote the works that showed demands them to
get equal rights, particularly in the field of education. Then, the women became
interested in the innovative ideas that emerged after the French revolution. They
imagined that the relationship between genders, currently in effect abolished and
appearing in the form of various kinds of associations, wants to stop the dominance of
men and denies the public how to be a woman at that time.

Around the middle of the 18th century, women in Europe, North America, and
the colonies in Canada, New Zealand and Australia set up the first joint time in the
group and the community that aims to reach changes and developments in social,
economic, and political women. The organisations became the centre of the historical
feminist movement. They want women to be educate. They want their ideology to be
recognized in the future. They wrote an autobiography, memoir, or history which we
would know as characteristic of the early emergence of feminism.

Feminism had a great contribution to the field of literature. It was created by a

group of women who learned about it and obtained it to be their reaction against the
sexism and patriarchy movement which dominated the world in the past. They created
contemporary trends towards literature and new needs in social interaction.

The history of women's writing in literature passed chronologically through

various times. First, it began in the eighteenth century. Then, in the Middle Ages
where it focused on women and women's rights. The major authors of this period
were Christine De Pezan, Sappho, and Mary Wollstonecraft. The nineteenth century
involves the topic of the United States women's suffrage movement. A number of
authors who tackle this topic include Jane Austen. Charlotte Bronte and Elizabeth
 8

Browning in addition to others. Finally, the twentieth century to the present time, it
covers assorted topics of feminism. The most influential figures in this era are
Margret Atwood, and Virginia Woolf.

In the beginning of the twentieth century, the term feminism appeared in

English; in Britain (1910), in America (1920), and in the Arab world (1920), the
word originated from the Latin term "Femina" to describe women's issues. Feminism,
considered as a social and political movement as well as a theory which is focused on
women's experiences of pain and sufferance, highlights the different forms of
oppression and gender differences in the society.

The term appeared long time after women's complaint for their inferior status
and demanding an amelioration in their social positions. The history of feminism
has passed through three main waves,

● The First Wave: Votes for Women

● The Second Wave: The person is political.

● The Third Wave: Transversal Politics

The first wave emerged during the nineteenth century and in the early
twentieth century in the United Kingdom and United States which concerned the
women's suffrage movement. Activists such as Vulttrine de Cleyre and Margret
Sanger focused on the rights of women such as, equal contract, the position to chattel
marriage by husbands, and gaining political power. Moreover, they were still
questioning women's sexual and economic rights at that period. This wave was able
to influence other feminist movements all over the world, it gave the rights of vote to
women. In 1918, Britain parliament had passed an act that gave women who were
thirty (30) years old the right to vote.

Mary Wollstonecraft (1792), in her famous work entitled,"Vindication of the

Rights of Women" stated that the first wave of feminism in Europe was considered as
a revolution. She believed that education was the best way for women to be in
equivalence with men in society. First-wave feminism had a simple goal: have society
recognize that women are humans, not property.
 9

Second-wave feminism took place in the 1960s and '70s. It built on first-wave
feminism and challenged what women's role in society should be. Inspired by the
Civil Rights movement and protests the Vietnam War, activists focused on the
institutions that held women back. This meant taking a closer look at why women
were oppressed. Traditional gender and family roles were questioned. Three main
types of feminism emerged: mainstream/liberal, radical, and cultural.

Mainstream feminism focused on institutional reforms, which meant reducing

gender discrimination, giving women access to male-dominated spaces, and
promoting equality. Radical feminism wanted to reshape society entirely, saying that
the system was inherently patriarchal and only an overhaul would bring liberation.

The third wave feminism was related to different feminist's activities which
began in the early 1990s until the present days. The phrase “third wave feminism”
was coined in 1992 by Rebecca Walker, a 23- old Black bisexual woman. Many
women more freely expressed their sexuality in how they spoke, dressed, and acted.
Schneider describes the third wave as:

''A movement of liberation which is not concerned with the social political,
and economic equality of women with men but with political fundamental
reimagination of the whole humanity in relation to whole reality; including
nonfiction creation”

This wave of feminism referred to a group of feminist activity. They

appeared in the early 1990s and continue to the present. Over the several decades, the
feminist movement has helped women to stand for their own and to be
acknowledged.
Feminists wanted to reorganise power that challenged feminist theory and politics
and wanted to discover women's interests and perspectives i.e., all groups of women
with no exception. Finally, each of the feminist waves discussed before has played a
key role in feminist theories and politics starting from the 1960s until now. They
paved the way for other waves and activities to appear and help woman to get her
social, political, cultural, religious, and sexual rights, each one in its own unique way.

In present days, women are recognised, and they are considered as equal as
men. Many laws related to women were established because of that they attained
proper recognition. At the same time many female writers are evolving nowadays.
 1

Whereas in the eighteenth century, women writers did not get proper recognition.
They cannot express what they really want in their life. But some women writers
like Mary Wollstonecraft, Elizabeth Montagu, Jane Austen, Sarah Scott and more
expressed their views in their novels.

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen had a profound and enduring impact on
the feminist movement. Elizabeth Bennet was the protagonist of the novel. The
character development of Elizabeth Bennet is a central aspect of the novel. Initially,
Elizabeth was portrayed as a sharp-witted and independent-minded young woman
with strong opinions. She was quick to judge others, particularly Mr. Darcy, based on
her first impressions and her own prejudices. However, as the story progresses,
Elizabeth undergoes significant personal growth and transformation. Throughout the
novel, Elizabeth's interactions with other characters, particularly Mr. Darcy,
challenge her preconceived notions and force her to revaluate her beliefs. Despite her
initial disdain for Darcy, she gradually comes to recognize his true character and
begins to appreciate his virtues. This evolution in her perception of Darcy symbolizes
her willingness to overcome her own pride and prejudice.

She gained a deeper understanding of the importance of familial bonds and

mutual respect. Additionally, Elizabeth's journey was marked by moments of
introspection and self-reflection. She learnt to acknowledge her own flaws and biases,
demonstrating a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about herself. This
introspective journey leads her to greater self-awareness and maturity.

Overall, Elizabeth's character development in "Pride and Prejudice" was a

testament to Austen's skill as a writer. Through her portrayal of Elizabeth's growth,
Austen highlights the importance of overcoming prejudice, embracing humility, and
remaining open to the possibility of change. Elizabeth's journey served as a timeless
reminder of the power of self-reflection and personal growth.

This novel reflected Jane Austen beliefs on feminism. Austen wrote strong
female characters that were confined to the conventions of their time. Austen raised
her voice to claim equality for women, to achieve financial independence and be able
to bring out a female voice. Women need to live their life without dominance of men.
 1

THE NOTION OF FEMINISM IN PRIDE AND PREJUDICE BY

JANE AUSTEN

Pride and Prejudice was a romantic novel of manners written by Jane

Austen. It was set in rural England in the early 19th century. This novel was about
love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy and how they overcome their
differences towards each other and end up marrying. Throughout the novel both
characters learn to accept each other's goodness of character.

The Bennet family consists of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet and their five
daughters: Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Catherine, and Lydia. Mrs. Bennet was
anxious to see all her daughters married because their family property was
going to be inherited by William Collins after the death of Mr. Bennet. At a
party, the wealthy and newly arrived Charles Bingley takes an immediate
interest in the eldest Bennet’s daughter, the beautiful and shy Jane. At the party,
Charles’s friend Darcy and Jane’s sister Elizabeth met each other, and the
meeting between them was not friendly.

Although both Darcy and Elizabeth show interest in each other at first,
both did not accept the fact that they are attracted to each other. Darcy was
consumed by his pride, as he comes from a rich background. Though Elizabeth
likes people who belong to high social classes, she disliked Darcy, particularly
because of his arrogant nature, as she had overheard that Darcy said to Charles,
Elizabeth was average in her looks. She thought that Darcy was saying this
because her social status did not match with his. Knowing so little about him,
Elizabeth made the wrong decision about him, thinking that he was not a good
guy, which prohibited her from going near Darcy.

Later in the story, Elizabeth encountered the charming George Wickham,

a military officer. There was a mutual attraction between the two. But Darcy
intervened in their relationship. Meanwhile, Elizabeth found that Darcy was also
not in favor of the relationship between Charles and Jane. Elizabeth did not make
any efforts to find out the reason behind Darcy’s actions and, influenced by her
prejudice, continued to dislike Darcy. However, Darcy’s interest in Elizabeth
started to grow because he found out that she was an intelligent, lively, and
 1

strong woman. After some days, Elizabeth’s friend Charlotte arranged a party,
where Darcy also invited. Seeing Elizabeth again, Darcy could not stop himself
from expressing his love and proposal to her. Surprised by his proposal,
Elizabeth got confused and refused his offer.

Darcy was disturbed by her refusal and demanded an explanation. Then

Elizabeth explained that she hated him because he was the one who was responsible
for the breakup of her relationship with Wickham. She also held him responsible
for the separation between Charles and her sister Jane. Darcy explained to Elizabeth
in a letter that he separated the couple because Jane was not in love with Charles.
He also disclosed the fact that Wickham wasted all his money and planned to marry
Darcy’s 15-year-old sister in an attempt to gain all her property. With these
revelations, Elizabeth’s perspective on Darcy as an arrogant person changed.

Elizabeth’s younger sister Lydia eloped with the charming but unprincipled
Mr. Wickham, which threatens Bennet’s family reputation. Mr. Darcy played a
pivotal role in resolving this situation by offering lots of money to Wickham for
marrying Lydia. Later, Elizabeth found that Darcy’s good actions saved her family’s
reputation. She also came to know that Darcy was the person behind the re-
engagement of Charles and Jane.

Lady Catherine heard rumors that Elizabeth was engaged to Mr.

Darcy, decides to visit her and orders Elizabeth not to marry him. Elizabeth
refused. Knowing Elizabeth’s response to his aunt, Darcy proposed to her
which she finally accepted. Although Elizabeth had some difficulties in
convincing her father that she was marrying for love and not for economic
reasons, Mr. Bennet was finally convinced. Elizabeth and Darcy overcame
their pride and prejudice and finally acknowledged the love they feel for
each other.

To understand the significance of Jane Austen's novel from a feminist

perspective, it was important to understand the condition of the women in the late
eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Equality and rights for women had been
the subject of discussion among women for several decades. Women have been
excluded from power for a long time. Women’s public voices had been suppressed
 1

within the patriarchal world. Society was based on several differences. Every
aspect of this society was filtered by gender. Masculinity and femininity are
modeled as a system. In this structure, women had an established role.

Women were not supposed to do something out of that role. Women are
defined simply as women while men are defined by more characteristics. The
patriarchal society was a social structure organized and governed by men.

The novel presents a range of female characters, each with their own
strengths and weaknesses, reflecting the diversity and complexity. Women are
placed in the center of narration. Through the characterization of female
characters, it represents the values of feminism. There are a variety of female
characters: the snobbish Lady Catherine, the superficial Caroline Bingley, the
desperate Charlotte Lucas. Among those women, Elizabeth is outstanding.

Elizabeth's character challenges the social gender prejudices of her time,

especially compared to other women. Elizabeth was the center of the discussion
of feminism. She was a character with feminist thoughts and actions. She
portrayed the issue of patriarchal societies and reshaped the stereotypes
surrounding cultural assumptions.

Elizabeth was the second born in the Bennet family and has four sisters and
no brothers. In the family, she had a reputation as the most intelligent girl, even
though she did not receive a formal education. She was lovely, clever, and good at
conversation. Her honesty, virtue, and lively wit raise her above the class, bound
and spiteful society of her time. Besides, she was described as beautiful and having
expressive eyes. Because of her good sense, Elizabeth was her father's favourite
child and her mother's least favourite.

Pride and Prejudice illustrated society as a patriarchal society with a land-

based economy. In this novel, it clearly depicts that, in an upper- middle class
society where the landowners had a significant function. The issue of property, and
the male dominated society are present in this novel. During this period in England
women could not inherit land. Within this patriarchal society only men could
inherit land. In particular, the oldest son of a gentleman could inherit the land. The
family lands or properties could not be broken up because no matter how many
 1

children a gentleman had; all the land was inherited by the oldest son. Younger
sons had to make their own living in a profession such as clergyman, as a military
officer or other professions acceptable for gentleman's sons. If the family had no
sons, the estate heritage was for the next closest male in the family. This man was
in his right to turn both the widow and the daughters out of the house that had been
their home for years. Daughters or widows did not inherit land from their fathers
or husbands. Although daughters in this world could have a fortune money
inherited from parents, this fortune will only go with a woman on her marriage,
commonly in her early twenties, and become part of her husband's property.

For example, In Pride and Prejudice it dealt with the legal problems of
women such as inheritance. The Bennet girls legally own nothing after their
father's death. Mrs. Bennet's obsession with finding wealthy sons-in-law was due
to the difficulties related to inheritance. That is because, in accordance with
eighteenth century laws, women could not have their own property. Thus, since
the Bennets had no son, when Mr. Bennet dies, all his property will pass on to his
nearest male relative who is Mr. Collins. Austen describes the situation as,

“Mr. Bennet's property consisted almost entirely in an estate of two

thousand a year, which, unfortunately for his daughters, was entailed, in
default of heirs male, on a distant relation; and their mother's fortune,
though ample for her situation in life, could but will supply the deficiency
of his” (35)

In other words, since women could not own any property by law, only sons
of a family were to provide their mother and unmarried sisters with allowance,
bed, and board after the father's death. Thus, it was obvious that the laws did not
give any value to women but considered them as a property of men, husbands, or
brothers. Mrs. Bennet reacted against the laws hopelessly by describing them as
"the cruelty of setting an estate away from a family of five daughters". As a result,
Austen focused on the absurdity of laws by employing problems related to
inheritance that forces women to get married to insure their future.

In a male dominated society, women are second to men. Women's choice of

marriage was not based on their wishes, but the criteria of men's decisions or social
 1

conventions. In the eyes of the people, she had a decent family but not from a rich
background. When Mr. Collins arrived at Meryton with a proposal to marry
Elizabeth, Mrs. Bennet was incredibly happy. She believed it to be the perfect
match for Elizabeth as it would ensure security of the family fortune. But Elizabeth
straight away rejected the marriage as she was not ready to spend the rest of her life
with the shallow and pompous Collins. She believed that Mr. Collins, a conceited,
foolish man, full of self-importance and he was a poor choice for a husband. Not
only her mother but even her neighbour raised their concerns about her decision
when Mr. Collins married Elizabeth's best friend Charlotte on being rejected by her.
But Elizabeth did not regret it, neither she was heartbroken. Elizabeth always stood
on her own terms in a society which was economically and socially controlled by
men. Elizabeth rejected Collins and said that,

“Your hope is a rather extraordinary one after my declaration. I do assure

you that I am not one of those young ladies (if such young ladies there are)
who are so daring as to risk their happiness on the chance of being asked a
second time. 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 could
make you so” (121)

The above quotation showed the rejection of Collins by Elizabeth. Here,

she followed her own instinct and refused a respectable man meant to inherit her
father's wealth. Elizabeth’s rejection was the best embodiment of feminism. She
was the only female character who did not come under men's influence
throughout the novel. She can make bold decisions on her own. Elizabeth
confronts people with her sensible wits and convincing arguments.

The issue of marriage was well depicted in Pride and Prejudice. The Bennet
family had no son to legally inherit land after Mr. Bennet death. Instead, Mrs.
Bennet had only five unmarried girls. This pushed Mrs. Bennet to find a wealthy
and prestigious husband for each of her daughters. This portrayed the women's
social and economic dependence on men in this patriarchal society. Women were
forced to get married to conserve the inheritance and assure their future. In the
beginning of the novel, Austen said that
 1

“It is truth acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune,

must be in want of a wife. However little known the feelings or views of
such a man may be on his first entering a neighborhood, this truth is so well
fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that he is considered the
rightful property of someone or other of their daughters” (7)

The line humorously introduces one of the central themes of the novel:
the social expectations and assumption that a wealthy single man must be
seeking a wife. In other words, the line highlights the cultural norm of the time
when marriage and securing a suitable partner, especially for financial stability
and social standing, were of immense importance. The line was often interpreted
as a witty commentary on marriage, social norms, and the pressure individuals
feel to conform to these expectations, even if they might not necessarily align
with their personal desires.

This novel also described a society which had a materialistic nature and
was always obsessed with money and position. These problems were because of
the patriarchal culture so that Elizabeth is getting pressure from her mother to
have a rich husband, no matter if she loves or not. Here Austen portrayed the
main theme of the novel and she said

“The business of Mrs. Bennet’s life is to get her daughters married” (9)

The condition of the society depicted by Jane Austen was a materialistic

society, where everything was measured by money. In the views of Elizabeth, a
marriage without an emotional foundation was unhappy. The process of
Elizabeth’s search for true love in the novel reflected the true value of marriage.

In this novel, Elizabeth was a protagonist who rebels against society's rules.
Austen presented Elizabeth as a person who possesses intellectual curiosity and
considerable intelligence to challenge a stereotype about women not being
interested in studying common during the period of the writing. Additionally, with
a character of Elizabeth, Austen demonstrated that women must not adhere to the
norms established in society which require them to act in a way limiting their
abilities and interests. The intelligence of Elizabeth provides her with the sense of
independence and desire to avoid simply serving men, the role which was standard
 1

for women of the age. This novel also revealed a social phenomenon at that time.
A woman was inappropriate if travelling alone. In this quotation, Caroline Bingley
criticized her for travelling alone and wearing a dirty dress, she even mentioned
that Elizabeth did not care about being decorous.

“To walk three miles, or four miles, or five miles, or whatever it is, above
her ankles in dirt, and alone, quite alone! What could she mean by it? It
seems to me to show an abominable sort of conceited independence, a most
country- town indifference to decorum.” (43)

The above quotation showed that Elizabeth walking alone for some miles
to see her sister's condition and to guard her sister who was sick in Mr. Bingley's
house. She decided to go to Netherfield by foot, whereas the road there was still
muddy because of the heavy rain last night. She arrives at Mr. Bingley's house
with the dirty clothes as result of the road splash which was wet and at the time.
Mr.
Bingley politely accepted the arrival of Elizabeth but in other hands the attitude of
Mr. Bingley was different with his sister wherein they are deriding Elizabeth's
behaviour and according to them a woman is inappropriate if travelling alone and
it was abominable. Their attitudes also differed as Mr. Darcy did not care about
Elizabeth who was willing to walk alone as far as five miles. Elizabeth got
discrimination from Darcy because she arrived in a dirty dress.

Therefore, it was noticeably clear here the limitation of women's rights that
everything done by women always gets insulted by men. This quotation also
expressed Elizabeth Bennet's rebellion against decorum and the necessity to achieve
women's freedom to do whatever they want. Austen said

“Elizabeth, feeling really anxious, was determined to go to her, though the

carriage was not to be had; and as she was no horsewoman, walking was her
only alternative.”
“How can you be so silly,” cried her mother, “as to think of such a thing, in
all this dirt! You will not be fit to be seen when you get there.”
“I shall be very fit to see Jane—which is all I want.”
“No, indeed, I do not wish to avoid the walk. The distance is nothing when
one has a motive; only three miles. I shall be back by dinner.” (39)
 1

The above quotation was about Elizabeth's courage and strength that can
be equated with men. She dares to do something that maybe men are rarely willing
to do. She can stand by herself without a man's help. She decided to walk and go
alone crossing field after field. In this case, Elizabeth struggled alone without
men's help. Elizabeth decided to walk alone because it is her right without
limitation.

Moreover, Elizabeth acts as a symbol of hope and change in society. She

helped in changing the perception of individuals concerning women. Elizabeth was a
courageous woman who speaks in confidence. She walked long distances on her
own, showing that women are strong and should not be undermined. She also acts as
a symbol of hope to women fighting to Elizabeth was an attractive young woman
with a lot of potential. She had a distinct and engaging personality. She had vigor,
but she also had self-control, and she was constantly guided by her brilliant
judgement, which other female characters lack.

Elizabeth was intelligent and smart when it came to social issues. Her
response to such matters as marriage did not resemble ordinary women's mindset.
She used this intelligence to express feminism. She disproves social norms that
portray men to be superior to women. She even turns down marriage proposals from
wealthy noble people like Mr. Darcy. Elizabeth believed that a man should not
control women. Elizabeth was truly a brilliant feminist, and her actions are
incomparable to other women in the novel. She does not do what is expected of her,
she does whatever she thinks is right and appropriate.

Elizabeth's feminist ideals challenge the accepted norms of society, which

strengthens her independence. As the character who views marriage as a partnership
based on mutual love and respect. She was identified as a unique character. It was
Elizabeth's individuality that rejects society’s norms, something that was
unimaginable for society’s females.

The entire novel slightly showed that how girls are pressured to marry and
search for a husband to attain a better life. For example, in Pride and Prejudice
Charlotte Lucas, who accepted Mr. Collins “solely from the pure and
disinterested desire of an establishment” cared not how early that establishment
was gained. It
 1

shows Charlotte Lucas married for the sake of a future in a male dominated society.
She admits to Elizabeth, choose the spouse they wish to marry

“I am not romantic, you know; I never was. I ask only comfortable home;
and considering Mr. Collin’s character, connection, and situation in life, I am
convinced that my chance of happiness with him is as fair as most people can
boast on entering the marriage state.” (139)

This reflects the point that Charlotte, in a male dominated society, took the
decision to marry to secure her own future. Elizabeth was so astonished to hear this
from her friend and became disappointed with Charlotte’s decision. This statement
depicted women's obsession with materialistic possessions. It explored that women
of Austen's era were completely subservient to their male counterparts. Hence, this
also counts as feminism in the novel.

Elizabeth criticized Charlotte’s consideration of marriage. Although

Charlotte was a sensible, good-natured lady, she chose Mr. Collins to live her
future. As a middle-aged lady, the only way to ensure her future life depends on
marrying a suitable man. This is how the author portrays Charlotte's feeling as,
Austen said,

“Her reflections were in general satisfactory. Mr. Collins, to be sure, was

neither sensible nor agreeable; his society was irksome, and his attachment
to her must be imaginary. But still, he would be her husband. Without
thinking highly either of man and matrimony, marriage had always been her
object; it was the only honorable provision for well-educated young women
of small fortune, and however uncertain of giving happiness, must be their
pleasantest preservative from want.” (136-137)

It was obvious that Charlotte felt uncertain about her future. Therefore, as
a conventional lady, she thought that the only way to guarantee her future was to
marry. Austen exemplified properly the social pressure over women, which
regarded feminine identity, with the help of Charlotte's marriage.

In Pride and Prejudice, it showed how a girl was treated by the men.
When Bingley suggested Darcy dance with Elizabeth, Darcy replied.
 2

“He looked for a moment at Elizabeth, till catching her eye, he withdrew his
own and coldly said, "She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt
me; and I am in no humor at present to give consequence to young ladies who
are slighted by other men. You had better return to your partner and enjoy her
smiles, for you are wasting your time with me.” (16)

The above lines shows, Darcy wanting a handsome one shows the
mentality of the men from the English upper class who think themselves superior
to the women. Not only the men, but the upper-class women were also used to
categorize other women. They believe a woman must be a certain type of person
and act in a specific way to be accepted and respected by their superior society.

Furthermore, another feature that makes Elizabeth an unconventional

heroine was her awareness of her own soul as a woman. In other words, she gave
importance to reflecting her thoughts and feelings, and thinks critically about the
place of women in society. She had positive attitudes and affections towards
femininity and had a talent to express her feminine identity in society. Those
qualities of Elizabeth discriminate her from the other heroines of the novel. For
example, the conversation between Elizabeth, Miss. Bingley, and Mr. Darcy about
what should be the exact features of a woman, properly demonstrated their different
points of view about female identity. Elizabeth refused the ideas and conventions of
society that disregard women's place and value. On the contrary, Miss. Bingley
accepted these values of society with a strong belief in their function and necessity.
Austen said,
“A woman must have a thorough knowledge of music, singing, drawing,
dancing, and the modern languages, to deserve the word; and besides all this,
she must possess a certain something in her air and manner of walking, the
tone of her voice, her address and expressions, or the word will be but half-
deserved.”
“All this she must possess," added Darcy, "and to all this she must yet add
something more substantial, in the improvement of her mind by extensive
reading.”
"I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I
rather wonder now at your knowing any.”
“Are you so severe upon your own sex as to doubt the possibility of all this?”
 2

“I never saw such a woman. I never saw such capacity, and taste, and
application, and elegance, as you describe united.”
“Mrs. Hurst and Miss Bingley both cried out against the injustice of her
implied doubt and were both protesting that they knew many women who
answered this description, when Mr. Hurst called them to order, with bitter
complaints of their inattention to what was going forward. As all
conversation was thereby at an end, Elizabeth soon afterwards left the room.”
“Elizabeth Bennet,” said Miss Bingley, when the door was closed on her, "is
one of those young ladies who seek to recommend themselves to the other
sex by undervaluing their own; and with many men, I dare say, it succeeds”
(47)

It is obvious that Elizabeth disagrees with Miss. Bingley and Mr. Darcy
because characteristic was rejecting the idea of decorum. When Miss Bingley was
talking about the definition of a perfect lady and Darcy was trying to support that
idea. Elizabeth replied with a confident but satiric tone. ‘I never saw such a woman,
I never saw such capacity, and taste, and application, and elegance, as you describe
united.’ Here Elizabeth takes the voice of a feminist person. However, Elizabeth
was so independent in her thinking that she does whatever she thinks is best for her
and does not abide by society's standards to make any decision.

She was heavily criticized by the other characters, even by the so-called
perfect ladies like Miss Bingley and Lady Catherine de Bourgh. The portrayal of
Elizabeth was exactly like what a woman in the world should be. The way
Elizabeth brings out the feminist values depicts the author Austen's own
perspective.

Moreover, Miss. Bingley's very last remark about Elizabeth that she intended
to draw men's attention by talking so unconventionally was indeed a sign of her
narrow-minded conduct. Miss. Bingley's harsh criticism revealed the attitude
towards independent women in society. She intentionally puts Elizabeth in an "odd
woman out situation" due to her own delusions about feminine ideals and values.
The comparison of Miss. Bingley and Elizabeth Bennet give clues about how Austen
constructs her characters.

Apart from all these qualities, another important notion about Elizabeth that
made her an independent heroine was that she knows being a man in itself creates
 2

the opportunity for the "power" in male dominated societies. For sure, this chance
was something that women cannot possess. Elizabeth reacted against this
discrimination by "talking" and "expressing" her own ideas liberally. For instance,
while talking with Colonel Fitzwilliam, she openly stated her ideas about Mr. Darcy.
She believed that gentlemen like Mr. Darcy gain advantages in society only due to
their gender. Besides, she criticized those advantages. Austen said,

“I wonder he does not marry, to secure a lasting convenience of that kind.

But, perhaps, his sister does as well for the present, and, as she is under his
sole care, he may do what he likes with her.” (199)

Austen criticized the inequality between genders by drawing attention to the

rights and opportunities that men have in society. Elizabeth's observations about the
privileges of Mr. Darcy over Miss. Darcy reveals the supremacy of males. The
author made use of the she thinks no woman can fit in with their criteria. Her
intervention implies that all those features in their lists do not aim at improving
women's image in society. Elizabeth's most precious problems about the power
struggles between genders in her novels to generate an appreciation for the equality
between sexes. Elizabeth acts beyond the fixed roles of her era and questions the
injustice between the rights that people possess in the society.

When Elizabeth and Collins visited Lady Catherine, everyone was respectful
to her, but Elizabeth was free to say what she was thinking, not to be afraid to
offend the rich and powerful Lady Catherine. Elizabeth is not afraid of power and
money.
This is exactly what is necessary for an independent woman.

Furthermore, while satirizing society’s views about marriage, Austen

attacked aristocracy and the laws of the era about women's position in society.
Aristocratic considerations are criticized by the representation of Lady Catherine in
Pride and Prejudice. Lady Catherine, who was Darcy’s aunt, reflected how upper-
class people believe that they have a right to control everything in society. For
example, after hearing the rumor about the engagement of Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth,
she asked Elizabeth to stop her relationship with her nephew because she believed
that the best match for Mr. Darcy was her own daughter. Austen said,

“I will not be interrupted! Hear me in silence. My daughter and my nephew

 2

are formed for each other. They are descended, on the maternal side, from the
same noble line; and, on the fathers from respectable, honorable, and ancient,
though untitled families. Their fortune on both sides is splendid. They are
destined for each other by the voice of every member of their houses; and
what is to divide them? The upstart pretensions of a young woman without
family, connections, and fortune. Is this to be endured?” (373)

It was clear that Catherine reflected the importance of class in society when
she attacked Elizabeth and the Bennet's family. Elizabeth broke away all the
stereotypes that were enforced on women in the eighteenth century. She took full
advantage of her audacity and took all her decisions on her own, whether it can be
the decision of her marriage or any other matter. When Lady Catherine de Bough
tried to compare her lifestyle with that of Mr. Darcy, she gave her a suitable reply.
Elizabeth said,

“In marrying your nephew, I should not consider myself as quitting that
sphere. He is a gentleman; I am a gentleman's daughter; so far, we are equal.”
(373)

It showed that she did not consider herself inferior in any way and that she
cannot be cowed down easily. Feminism is a doctrine that equates people equally,
and this moment when Elizabeth declares herself equal to Mr. Darcy is when
Elizabeth emerged as a feminist. Equating herself with a man and that too of a much
higher status than herself showed that she had not only grown as a feminist but also
in the way that she had become comfortable with herself as who she is and she will
not take any criticism from anyone.

There was also a lack of horizontal hostility that was observed on the part of
Elizabeth. Horizontal hostility was when members of an oppressed group fight
amongst each other because they cannot vent their anger out on those in power.
During the late eighteenth century and nineteenth century, the oppressed would-be
women and the oppressors would be the men and those of higher class. Women were
treated as commodities and less valued therefore causing this horizontal hostility
among their own kind. Women would normally pent out anger on each other by
mocking, taunting, belittling, and backstabbing each other.

Elizabeth went through various situations in which she can show this
 2

horizontal hostility against her fellow women. For example, Miss Bingley who
seems to have a keen interest in Mr. Darcy, however, when she notices his
apparent curiosity of Elizabeth, she begins to dislike Elizabeth bent on proving her
flaws to him. Through this hate shown towards Elizabeth, she can easily put her
anger on another woman or back on Ms. Bingley. However, she chose not to and
instead hit her oppressors directly. For example, her outburst at Lady Catherine de
Bourgh; instead of walking away from that situation with her head bent in defeat
and expressing her anger out. This type of standing up for oneself shows the
movement away from the conventional woman of that time to a more modern and
self- concerned woman.

The feminist views manifested through the protagonist Elizabeth; Austen's

provided the limitations imposed by society. The purpose of Elizabeth's feminist
views was better displayed through the foil comparisons with Caroline, Jane, and
Charlotte. It was essential to grasp the underlying rationale of early feminist theories
two years ago in order to address Austen’s view properly. Austen was aware of
social differences between genders. For e.g., in her critical view towards the lack of
education for women.

In Pride and Prejudice, Austen asserted her awareness of differing views on

what constitutes necessary education for women through a discourse between several
characters at Nether field. These novel displays women's suffrage through Elizabeth,
a woman who for the time was uncommonly accomplished in reading. Austen also
constructed a male protagonist, Mr. Darcy, who perceived reading to be a necessary
accomplishment for women and deems Elizabeth's intellect and admirable quality.
This problem of educational inequality over the gap between social status in society.
This novel described social class in British society at that time, where there was
some lameness between the upper classes and the middle classes. The delineation
can be seen when Lady Catherine was surprised to hear Elizabeth and her sisters
grow up without a governess in which it was then assumed that Elizabeth's family
did not prioritize education. This issue was portrayed in the following quotation,

"Then, who taught you? Who attended to you? Without a governess, you
must have been neglected." "Compared with some families, I believe we
were; but such of us as wished to learn never wanted the means. We
were always
 2

encouraged to read and had all the masters that were necessary. Those who
chose to be idle certainly might” (180)

The above quotation was when Lady Catherine is surprised to hear Elizabeth
and her sisters grow up without a governess in which it was then assumed that
Elizabeth's family did not prioritize education. Lady Catherine asked. about the
education of Elizabeth's family. This question makes Elizabeth silent and pensive.
In this case, Lady Catherine was from high social status, Elizabeth's education with
her family came from low social status. The educational asymmetry between
Elizabeth with Lady Catherine happened because of the difference in social status.
Austen said,

"Every person, I believe, has some special fault of character which even the
best education cannot entirely cure.” “And your fault is a tendency to hate
everybody.” (67)

The quotation above was about Elizabeth's conversion with Mr. Darcy in Mr.
Bingley’s house. The conversation showed that feminism was owned by Elizabeth.
Elizabeth was particularly good at arguing and her way of thinking is equal to men at
that time. During that period, only the noble family’s daughters get proper education
and many of them were self-educated at home.

Elizabeth's dazzling and teasing humor brings Lady Catherine's

condemnation and Darcy's admiration. Her sharp tongue and inclination to make
hurried judgments often lead her off track; Despite her mistake in misjudging Darcy,
and her more blamable error of sticking obstinately to that judgment until strained to
see her error, Elizabeth was usually right about people. For example, she
agonizingly recognized the inappropriate behaviour of most of her family, and she
quickly identified Mr. Collins as a fool and Lady Catherine as a tormentor. But
sometimes her judgement takes her into the worst errors as in the case of Darcy, she
moved from reasonable first impressions to definite and wrong conclusions about his
character.

She was always excited and anxious to listen and always ready to laugh at
stupidity Because of her outstanding powers of observation, Elizabeth's sense of the
difference between the wise and foolish was excellent. Elizabeth chose to play the
 2

role of a heroine due to her unshaken belief in equality. Other women characters in
the novel like Charlotte, Lydia, and Jane are accustomed to socializing. normality.
Elizabeth denounced the idea that marriage was concerned with money and social
status and argued that marriage is about love and respect. Her matrimonial
philosophy, together with her brilliance, places her in a position capable of being as
a feminist character. Elizabeth was first reluctant to marry Mr. Darcy because she
was afraid to resemble the women around her. She did not want to appear like
ordinary women who marry for wealth and social status. A woman can be made
weak by giving in to Mr. Darcy since he is among the wealthiest men in England.
However, as she waits, she begins to believe Mr. Darcy genuinely loves her.

The respect created by the conviction of his valuable qualities, though at first
unwillingly admitted, had for some time ceased to be repugnant to her feelings; and
it was now heightened into somewhat of a friendlier nature, by testimony so highly
in his favour, and bringing forward his disposition in so amiable a light, which
yesterday had produced. But above respect and esteem, there was a motive within
her of good which could not be overlooked. It was gratitude. Gratitude, not merely
for having once loved her but for loving her still well enough, to forgive all the
petulance and acrimony of her manner in rejecting him, and all the unjust
accusations accompanying her rejection.

It was suggested that Elizabeth's commitment to marriage is both a source of

courage and portrayed as one of a feminist trait. It was imperative that Darcy put
aside his pride as he competed for Elizabeth's affection if he was to win her heart
and marry her. Darcy describes "You knew no actual good of me-but nobody thinks
of that when they fall in love". This implies that marriage should result from love
and affection between two people who mutually agree to stay together, not because
of being coerced by traditions. Also, Elizabeth reflects on her affection for Mr.
Darcy "She began now to comprehend that he was exactly the man, who in
disposition and talents, would most suit her.” In addition, Darcy further confesses his
love to Elizabeth, "My real purpose was to see you, and to judge, if I could, whether
I might ever hope to make you love me". Social pressures should not force women to
marry, but rather they should be free to marry whomever they are attracted to and
want to be with for the rest of their lives. Elizabeth viewed marriage as a long-term
 2

commitment that requires both partners to agree on what is best for them.

Pride and Prejudice was the story of how she and Darcy, because of their true
love, are able to overcome all obstacles, including their own personal failings; to find
romantic happiness. Elizabeth must bear with a hopeless mother, a distant father, two
badly behaved younger siblings, and cope up with several snobbish, antagonizing
females.

Elizabeth did not accept Darcy's first proposal because she felt his sense of
inferiority and she was annoyed by Darcy's pride. After realizing her misjudgment
on Darcy and Darcy's change of his pride, they both become more mature and
understand each other more. They help each other improve their personality.
Elizabeth had a lot of courage to pursue her happiness.

Elizabeth's character portrayed the ideal features of a woman in comparison

to other women characters. She wanted to change the situation by giving women a
voice in a culture that had previously ignored them. Elizabeth believed in a marriage
that is centrally founded on mutual love. She wanted to settle down with a gentleman
of her choice who was well- mannered and had a variety of viewpoints. Elizabeth
was determined to marry, but solely for the sake of marrying the man she chooses.
Darcy and Elizabeth agreed to marry each other because of their mutual love. The
two fell in love and cultivated affection for each other, resulting in a marriage of
mutual love and respect. Her views on marriage differ from most society
members.

In accordance with societal norms, her family, especially her mother, wanted
all her daughters to get married to financially secure partners. However, Elizabeth
stands against the odds. Mr. Darcy viewed her as different from other ladies in the
community, which could be the factor that made him more attracted to her. The final
moment Elizabeth was truly emerged as a feminist is when Elizabeth is described as
having a sporty demeanor by Georgiana,

“Georgiana had the highest opinion in the world of Elizabeth; though at first
she often listened with astonishment bordering on alarm at her lively,
sportive manner of talking to her brother” (407)

Unlike Charlotte Lucas who took on the conventional role of a woman after
 2

marrying Mr. Collins and caring for him and his house, Elizabeth retains her
livelihood and freedom after marriage. Through Georgiana’s surprise, it must be
noted that women would conventionally change after being married, taking up the
role of the homely caregiver submissive to her husband’s will. Sporty is defined as
fond of or good at sports; describing Elizabeth as sporty gives her masculine
qualities as it was the men that would play sports and be active.

Throughout Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennett had been a constant

headstrong personality. She had been able to speak with a range of people from
bourgeois to aristocratic comfortably with a sense of wittiness. However, these
qualities did not show her feminist character, merely the makings of a feminist
character. Through her courage and ease at diligently talking back to Lady Catherine
de Bourgh at her demeaning comments towards Elizabeth, her respect and
empowerment for her womankind and by being described as sporty by Georgiana,
Elizabeth emerged as the feminist that she merely hinted to be. Austen reflected her
courage and feminine beliefs through Elizabeth, both true feminists.

As a feminist character, Elizabeth had an unshaken belief in equality. Other

women characters in the novel like Charlotte, Lydia and Jane are accustomed to
social normality. Elizabeth denounced the idea that marriage is concerned with
money and social status and argues that marriage is about love and respect. Most
women in the novel pursue marriage to get social recognition and comfortable lives.
Elizabeth opposed these norms. She did not compromise on wealth and men's
cunning promises. Moreover, she believed that status was not mandatory for one to
survive. Her genuine and hold nurture makes her free from any control. She strongly
supports women's empowerment.

Elizabeth was surely the epitome of change and reflection of feminism. Apart
from her brilliance, she was independent and steadfast in her actions. Elizabeth's
outspokenness and assertiveness are presented as a feminist. Her role was to criticize
social conventions and patriarchal societies that intimidate women's rights. Elizabeth
disapproves of social norms to show that women can stand up for themselves and
live independently. She was not infallible. She makes mistakes throughout the novel
while being internally educated. In other words, Elizabeth's profound pride was
observed at the beginning of Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth thinks too well of her
 2

own judgments. She did not accept the fixed roles assigned to women by society.
However, at the end of the novel, Elizabeth realized her own delusions and develops
a more conscious female voice.

Elizabeth's acceptance of Darcy's love is a sign of her pursuit of equality as a

feminist. When Darcy asked her to marry, she expressed dissatisfaction with him and
then refused firmly. Later, after the misunderstanding between Elizabeth and Darcy
was lifted. Although she was not right with Darcy, she did not wait quietly for her
fate, but bravely chose her happiness. In marriage, her status with her husband is
equal. She breaks the stereotypes and the social norms that have been set out for her.
Even though she lives in a man ruled society, she can be described as a feminist
woman. The fact that she never considered herself inferior to men. Also, the fact that
she equals herself with Darcy, a man of a much higher status than her, depicts that
she has not only grown as a feminist but also, she has become comfortable with
herself as who she is, and she will no longer take criticism from anyone.

Jane Austen tried to show humans as a matter of looking at a glorious thing

that makes them happy. In this novel, Jane Austen described a society which has a
materialistic nature and is always obsessed with money and position. This novel also
includes the distribution system or social order that enforces English primogeniture
system. Primogeniture is a legacy of the feudal system of Normandy. It is the
inheritance given to the first male. child only. The position of women in terms of
inheritance is weak. They do not have the right to inheritance. Inheritance is
primogeniture that leads to discrimination between men and women.

The main character said "I would rather be paid the compliment of being
believed sincere" to express her freedom in expressing her individuality as she has
spoken honestly about her feelings. By saying "My feelings in every respect forbid
it" she strengthens her individualism developed as she bravely shows her refusal to a
man she does not love and the statement "Do not consider me now as an elegant
female intending to plague you, but a rational creature speaking the truth from her
heart" definitely expresses her freedom in expressing herself as woman who has
moral and right to speak and do what she has to do to develop herself as a human
being.
 3

The issues of feminism in the novel were because of gender inequality that
could be seen in the system of entailment and the lack of opportunity of self-
actualization. The system of entailment in Pride and Prejudice was the future.
restriction of ownership of family estate to descendants. It was limited to male heirs.
As Mr. Bennet does not have a son, his estate was entailed to Mr. Collins. Women
acquire less opportunity for doing self- actualization as a woman faces the issue of
matchmaking to secure the family's economy; therefore, women cannot freely
choose her spouse and are always dependent on family. choice.

The main character could face the issues of feminism and she experienced
the effects of feminism. Which supported the right of women in value of
individualism, choice, freedom, and equality in opportunity. The effect of feminism
in the system of entailment was the claim of individualism in expressing the right to
choose and determine her own life though she experienced a quarrel with her
mother. The effect of feminism in self-actualization was the claim of individualism
as she can develop her. individuality by speaking frankly about her feelings and she
also expresses her freedom in expressing herself as a woman who has moral and
right to speak and do what she must do to develop herself as a human being.

Therefore, Elizabeth Bennet can be read as a feminist woman because her

values set her apart from the figure of a traditional woman during that age. Her
feminist values are manifested in Pride and Prejudice to demonstrate that women
deserve the same rights as men and to question men.
 3

CONCLUSION

During an extended period in history, women were not considered as equal

citizens. She suffered from discrimination, and racism under man domination and
rules. Despite these problems, they could challenge them and prove themselves over
society. Women in the past were living unequal and unfair lives. She was prevented
from doing any political, social and economic activities and her only job was to be a
stay-at-home spouse who takes care of home and children. At that time, women
were under the control of a man who dominated all the fields in which men
represented as symbols of power.

After all this, suffering women in the entire world started to find ways to
improve themselves and to change their position in life. They also tried to join their
efforts, dreams, and wishes to form a universal idea that speaks about all women in
any place in the world which leads to the appearance of Feminism.

By the coming of Feminism, women were able to take back her rights and
change her position in society. Feminism proves that women are capable of playing
important roles like men. Moreover, the most important goals of Feminism were
giving women total freedom in addition to equal opportunities in the representation of
political and social events.

The novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen dealt with the problems such
as domination, patriarchy, oppression, and inequality. This novel was revealing
numerous problems that women were dealing with. In the 18th century, women were
bound to so many limitations. Austen did not shy away to expose those limitations
and horrible aspects of her society. She depicts the materialistic nature of the people.
During the late eighteenth and the early nineteenth centuries in England, women's
roles were considered in opposition to men. While men were associated with active,
progressive, defender, conquer, traveller, creator and rational, women were associated
with passive, kindness, sensitive, domesticity and irrationality.

Jane Austen's novels illustrate these conventional roles of people in society.

Austen succeeded in depicting the conditions of women during this period in England.
Her writings were all taken from her life experiences. Through this portrayal she
 3

points out the issues affecting women under patriarchal society in England. Her novel
did not speak only about young women who were eager to marry, representing the
image of women in nineteenth century society. But also traced her main character's
problems in society which did not give them many opportunities to live, study and be
independent.

The author portrayed the commonplace of a small village in the countryside

England. Through this portrayal she points out the issues affecting women under
patriarchal society in England. Jane Austen critiqued marriage, women dependent on
men, economic disadvantages of women and inequality in society. Her style
emphasised these issues provoked by the patriarchal society in England. Through her
novel, Austen questions the stereotypical images of women and male definitions of
women in England during her time.

Besides facing the issues of being a women writer in her time, Jane Austen
dealt with the key issues affecting the life of women in England. Jane Austen
questions the convictions of marriage as a material institution, she points out the
dependence of women on men for financial survival.

Pride and Prejudice had presented important themes of English society in the
eighteenth and nineteenth century. Jane Austen's writings were always defending
women. Her focus was on their personalities, manners and their intentions toward
each other in society. In the nineteenth century, the patriarchal system was dominated
as a landmark.

Women did not have as many rights as they do today, they had no
possessions of their own. The only way for women was to marry a man of the same
or of a higher social status. They could preserve their social status by marrying a
high-class man.
Because of these reasons, marriage has been a central theme in the novel.
Women were married to men for their financial status.

The analysis of the novel shows that there are common points between Jane
Austen and her female protagonist Elizabeth. The work was included many aspects
and events from Austen's life which indicates that the novel has reflected Austen's real
life. She portrayed a main theme of her time, which makes her suffer so much,
 3

because she believed in love and self-independence. She utilised Elizabeth Bennet to
be her mirror that reflected her personality.

The character of Elizabeth sets an example for feminism. Elizabeth's character

showed the value of women and how they are equally worthy as men. She was the
main character in the novel. In the eighteenth and nineteenth century, there were
more limits to women. In which, they had to lead their life in that social construct.
They cannot express their desires to others. Those periods were only meant to male
domination.

During those centuries, men were able to fulfil their desires without any
restrictions. Women cannot make decisions of their own. Whereas in the novel Pride
and Prejudice, Elizabeth rejected the proposal of Mr. Collins. This showed an
independent nature of Elizabeth. She made a decision of her own. Here, Elizabeth
truly emerged as a feminist character. Her actions typically support a yearning for
some sort of equality.

Elizabeth continuously challenged the roles placed on her by her family and
society, which was most obvious when she had a conversation with Lady Catherine
about a possible engagement with Mr. Darcy. Lady Catherine repeatedly told
Elizabeth that she was not good enough for her nephew, due to her poor upbringing
and her family. But Elizabeth did not bother about it, and she accepted the proposal of
Mr. Darcy and they got married. In the beginning of the novel, they both had a
prejudice but in the end of the novel, they both overcame their prejudice with their
love. Elizabeth married Darcy on her own condition and made her husband realise her
worth.

Elizabeth never accepted being married to be a trophy wife but lived on her
own terms with mutual love and respect for each other. She found her beloved Darcy
in spite of her prejudice. Their true love contributed to changing their personalities
and attitude towards each other. This novel proves to be inspiring and motivating for
women. Austen expressed her views on the independent nature of women through the
character of Elizabeth.

Austen used different narrative techniques to establish feminist authority and

deconstruct the male consciousness. Different from the traditional male writing style,
 3

Austen regarded females as a centre part of the novel. She let her female characters
describe the story as their daily life, transmitting the information to the readers. In her
novels, the heroines are not traditional angels or monsters defined by male characters.
All of them are independent.

Austen's writing itself was a rebellious act against the particular rumour of
female intellectual inferiority and regulation of women's proper behaviours. She was a
remarkable woman in the literary area. She used her special perspective of females to
show that women were independent rather than dependent.

Austen was a feminist writer and a precursor of feminist literature. Through

her characters Austen raised a feminist voice. The reader can perceive that the
author was conscious of the issues affecting women in patriarchal society. She was
distinctive at describing the people. In her novel she created an active character of
snobbish and arrogant squires. She satirised the snobbery, Pride of the middle-class
people with humorous words. Apparently, she wrote about everyday life, but in fact
some social problems were disclosed in her novels.

The end of the novel revealed that Mr. Darcy’s gradual change of his character
and his belief that they would constitute a good couple encouraged Elizabeth to accept
his second proposal. The novel ended with a happy decision by Elizabeth. Mr. Darcy
was willing to accept her independent personality.

Lastly, although Jane Austen lived long before the discovery of feminist
approach in literary criticism, she developed quite revolutionary ideas about the
representation of female voices. In Pride and Prejudice and Emma, Austen
reflected her thoughts about the place and outlook of women that are unlike the
daily conventions of her era. Besides, Austen emphasised that there should be
balance between genders in society.

Austen encouraged women to gain a female voice in society with which they
can act autonomously. In other words, Jane Austen points out the significance of
equality between genders in the eighteenth century, which was something
revolutionary considering the values of her time. The novel portrayed that women
must be given equal opportunities and proper space in the society as they are human
 3

beings too. It seems that Austen's purpose was to bring about social change and
equality in the society through her novel.

Jane Austen’s life, her relationship with feminism and the contribution of her
works were inspiring writers and feminist activists. Feminism features in the novel
such as the role of women and the asymmetric between the two genders at that time.
At the end of the novel Pride and Prejudice was an interesting novel in which many
aspects of life were projected such as marriage, family, social status, and feminism.
Her novel gave a clear image of the women's status in the eighteenth and nineteenth
century in Britain.
 3

BIBLIOGRAPHY

PRIMARY SOURCE

Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice, Fingerprint Publications, New Delhi,

2023.

SECONDARY SOURCES

Beckson, Karl and Arthur Ganz. Literary Terms: A Dictionary, Andre Deutsch Ltd.,
London, 1990.

Halperin, John. The life of Jane Austen. The Johns Hopkins University press, 1984.

Montagu, Ashley. The Natural Superiority of a woman, The Macmillan Company,

New York, 1953.

Wollstonecraft, Mary. Vindication of the Rights of women, Penguin Books, 1975.

Cudd, A. Analysing Oppression. Oxford University Press, England, 2006.

Suaidi. “Feminism Reflected in Pride and Prejudice Novel by Jane Austen.”

Department of Language and Literature, Kanjuruhan University of Malang,
2016.