# Chapter XII explained — Pride and Prejudice

> Chapter companion for Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Elizabeth and Jane prepare to leave Netherfield, but Mrs. Bennet delays their return. Despite Bingley's protests, they depart on Sunday. Elizabeth is relieved to leave Darcy's confusing presence, while Miss Bingley's jealousy subsides into forced civility. At home, they find their father glad to see them, Mary absorbed in her studies, and Kitty and Lydia full of gossip about the militia.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Status

Miss Bingley's jealousy and civility reflect the social maneuvering and class tensions between the Bingley sisters and the Bennets.

### Self-Knowledge and Growth

Darcy's conscious effort to suppress his admiration for Elizabeth shows his internal struggle and growing self-awareness.

## Character check-ins

### Elizabeth Bennet

Resolved to leave Netherfield despite her mother's wishes; relieved to depart and in liveliest spirits.

### Jane Bennet

Firm in her decision to leave, though Bingley urges her to stay for her health.

### Mr. Darcy

Welcomes Elizabeth's departure; resolves to hide his admiration and speaks scarcely ten words to her.

### Miss Bingley

Jealous and uncivil to Elizabeth; her civility increases rapidly as they part.

### Mr. Bingley

Truly sorry to see Jane go and tries to persuade her to stay.

## Key lines

> Elizabeth took leave of the whole party in the liveliest spirits.

Elizabeth was cheerful and happy to say goodbye to everyone.

_Highlights Elizabeth's relief at leaving Netherfield._

> Steady to his purpose, he scarcely spoke ten words to her through the whole of Saturday, and though they were at one time left by themselves for half an hour, he adhered most conscientiously to his book, and would not even look at her.

Darcy stuck to his plan and barely talked to Elizabeth all Saturday, even ignoring her when they were alone.

_Illustrates Darcy's determined avoidance of Elizabeth._

## Links

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