Pride and Prejudice · Chapter
Chapter XVI explained
At a party at Mrs.
What happens
At a party at Mrs. Philips's house, Elizabeth Bennet engages in a lengthy conversation with Mr. Wickham, who recounts his grievances against Mr. Darcy, claiming Darcy denied him a living promised by his father. Wickham also reveals the connection between Lady Catherine de Bourgh and the Darcy family, and Elizabeth becomes increasingly captivated by Wickham's charm and story.
Themes in this chapter
Pride and Prejudice
Wickham attributes Darcy's actions to pride, while Elizabeth's prejudice against Darcy is reinforced by Wickham's biased account.
Reputation and Appearance
Wickham's charming demeanor contrasts with his accusations against Darcy, illustrating how appearances can deceive and shape reputations.
Social Class and Status
The conversation reveals the interconnectedness of wealthy families like the Darcys and de Bourghs, and how status influences perceptions and opportunities.
Characters to notice
- Elizabeth Bennet
Engrossed in conversation with Mr. Wickham, she listens to his account of Mr. Darcy's injustices and becomes favorably disposed toward Wickham.
- Mr. Wickham
Shares his version of his history with Mr. Darcy, portraying himself as a victim of Darcy's pride and dishonesty, and charms Elizabeth with his manners.
- Mr. Collins
Joins the party after whist, boasts of his connection to Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and provides information that links the de Bourgh and Darcy families.
- Lydia Bennet
Talks incessantly about lottery tickets and her winnings during the carriage ride home, overshadowing Elizabeth's thoughts.
- Mr. Darcy
Discussed extensively by Wickham and Elizabeth; Wickham accuses him of pride and dishonesty, while Elizabeth forms a negative opinion based on Wickham's account.
- Lady Catherine de Bourgh
Mentioned as Mr. Collins's patroness and as the aunt of Mr. Darcy; Wickham describes her as arrogant and dictatorial.
Key passages
“I am astonished at his intimacy with Mr. Bingley! How can Mr. Bingley, who seems good humour itself, and is, I really believe, truly amiable, be in friendship with such a man?”
Elizabeth expresses surprise that the good-natured Mr. Bingley could be friends with the disagreeable Mr. Darcy.
Elizabeth's bewilderment highlights her growing bias against Darcy based on Wickham's story.
“His behaviour to myself has been scandalous; but I verily believe I could forgive him anything and everything, rather than his disappointing the hopes and disgracing the memory of his father.”
Wickham claims Darcy's treatment of him is unforgivable, especially because it dishonors the late Mr. Darcy's wishes.
Wickham uses filial piety to strengthen his case against Darcy, appealing to Elizabeth's sense of justice.