Chapter XLIV explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Self-Knowledge and Growth

  Elizabeth reflects on her changed feelings toward Darcy, acknowledging her former prejudice and her growing gratitude and affection.

• Reputation and Appearance

  Georgiana's shyness is mistaken for pride; the Gardiners reconsider Darcy's character based on his behavior and the housekeeper's report.

• Social Class and Status

  Darcy's civility to the Gardiners, who are of lower social standing, marks a significant change in his behavior.

Characters to notice

• Elizabeth Bennet

  Struggles with her evolving feelings for Darcy, feeling gratitude and affection; anxious to please during the visit.

• Mr. Darcy

  Shows marked improvement in manners, eager to please Elizabeth and her relations; invites the party to dinner at Pemberley.

• Georgiana Darcy

  Visits with her brother; appears shy rather than proud, gentle and unassuming in manner.

• Mr. Bingley

  Visits Elizabeth at the inn; expresses pleasure at seeing her and asks about her family, hinting at continued regard for Jane.

• Mrs. Gardiner

  Observes Darcy's admiration for Elizabeth and accepts the dinner invitation on behalf of the party.

• Mr. Gardiner

  Present with his wife; fond of society and willing to accept the invitation to Pemberley.

Key passages

• “She certainly did not hate him. No; hatred had vanished long ago, and she had almost as long been ashamed of ever feeling a dislike against him, that could be so called.”

  Elizabeth realizes she no longer hates Darcy and is even embarrassed that she once felt such strong dislike.

  Highlights Elizabeth's emotional growth and changing perspective on Darcy.

• “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.”

  Elizabeth feels grateful not just that Darcy loved her, but that he still loves her enough to forgive her harsh rejection and false accusations.

  Shows Elizabeth's recognition of Darcy's enduring affection and her own remorse.

• “Never, even in the company of his dear friends at Netherfield, or his dignified relations at Rosings, had she seen him so desirous to please, so free from self-consequence, or unbending reserve as now, when no importance could result from the success of his endeavours.”

  Elizabeth observes that Darcy is more eager to please and less reserved now than ever before, even though there is no social advantage to be gained.

  Emphasizes Darcy's genuine transformation and his sincere efforts to win Elizabeth's favor.