Chapter LIX explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Love and Marriage

  Elizabeth's engagement to Darcy is based on genuine affection, contrasting with earlier mercenary views of marriage.

• Family and Duty

  Elizabeth seeks her father's consent, and the family's reactions highlight the social and emotional stakes of her choice.

• Self-Knowledge and Growth

  Elizabeth reflects on her former prejudice against Darcy and acknowledges her evolving feelings.

Characters to notice

• Elizabeth Bennet

  Reveals her engagement to Jane and later to her father, confessing her love for Darcy.

• Jane Bennet

  Initially disbelieves Elizabeth's engagement but becomes happy and supportive after being convinced.

• Mr. Darcy

  Accompanies Bingley to Longbourn; seeks Mr. Bennet's consent to marry Elizabeth.

• Mrs. Bennet

  Overjoyed by Darcy's wealth upon learning of the engagement, though she still calls him 'disagreeable'.

• Mr. Bennet

  Initially skeptical, he gives his consent after Elizabeth affirms her love for Darcy.

• Mr. Bingley

  Shows warmth and hints at knowing about the engagement during the visit.

Key passages

• “You are joking, Lizzy. This cannot be!—engaged to Mr. Darcy! No, no, you shall not deceive me. I know it to be impossible.”

  Jane cannot believe Elizabeth is engaged to Darcy, thinking it a joke.

  Jane's initial disbelief underscores the surprising nature of the match.

• “I must confess, that I love him better than I do Bingley. I am afraid you will be angry.”

  Elizabeth admits she loves Darcy more than Jane loves Bingley.

  Elizabeth's playful confession shows the depth of her affection.

• “Ten thousand a year, and very likely more! 'Tis as good as a Lord! And a special licence. You must and shall be married by a special licence.”

  Mrs. Bennet is ecstatic about Darcy's wealth and insists on a special licence for the wedding.

  Mrs. Bennet's reaction highlights her preoccupation with financial and social status.