# Chapter LIX explained — Pride and Prejudice

> Chapter companion for Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Elizabeth reveals her engagement to Mr. Darcy to Jane, who is initially incredulous but eventually convinced. Elizabeth confesses Darcy's role in Lydia's marriage. Mrs. Bennet, upon learning of the engagement, is overjoyed by Darcy's wealth. Mr. Bennet, though surprised, gives his consent after Elizabeth assures him of her genuine love.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pride_and_prejudice_se/chapters/lix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pride_and_prejudice_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pride_and_prejudice_se/chapters