Pride and Prejudice · Chapter
Chapter II explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Bennet reveals that he has already visited Mr. Bingley, to the surprise and delight of his wife and daughters. The family discusses the upcoming ball and their hopes for introductions, with Mrs. Bennet expressing anxiety and Mr. Bennet teasing her.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Status
The Bennet family's eagerness to meet Mr. Bingley reflects the importance of social connections and the pursuit of advantageous marriages.
Family and Duty
Mr. Bennet's visit to Mr. Bingley is framed as a duty to his daughters' prospects, while Mrs. Bennet's schemes highlight parental investment in children's marriages.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Bennet
Reveals he has already visited Mr. Bingley, teasing his wife and daughters.
- Mrs. Bennet
Expresses resentment and anxiety about meeting Mr. Bingley, then joy upon learning of the visit.
- Elizabeth Bennet
Reminds her mother they will meet Mr. Bingley at the assemblies.
- Kitty Bennet
Scolded by her mother for coughing; responds fretfully.
- Lydia Bennet
Boldly declares she expects Mr. Bingley to dance with her at the ball.
Key passages
“I hope Mr. Bingley will like it, Lizzy.”
Mr. Bennet hopes Mr. Bingley will approve of Elizabeth's hat.
Mr. Bennet's teasing remark reveals his visit and sets the family's excitement in motion.
“I do not believe Mrs. Long will do any such thing. She has two nieces of her own. She is a selfish, hypocritical woman, and I have no opinion of her.”
Mrs. Bennet distrusts Mrs. Long's willingness to introduce Mr. Bingley, suspecting she will favor her own nieces.
Highlights Mrs. Bennet's anxiety and competitive nature regarding social introductions.