# Chapter XXII explained — Pride and Prejudice

> Chapter companion for Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

## What happens

Mr. Collins, having been rejected by Elizabeth, quickly proposes to Charlotte Lucas, who accepts him for the sake of a comfortable establishment. The news astonishes Elizabeth, who struggles to reconcile her friend's decision with her own ideals of marriage.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

Charlotte's acceptance of Mr. Collins for financial security contrasts sharply with Elizabeth's ideal of marriage based on mutual respect and affection.

### Social Class and Status

Charlotte's decision highlights the limited options for women of small fortune, where marriage is a means to social and economic stability.

### Self-Knowledge and Growth

Elizabeth's internal conflict over Charlotte's choice forces her to confront her own values and the harsh realities of her society.

## Character check-ins

### Elizabeth Bennet

Elizabeth is shocked and disappointed by Charlotte's engagement to Mr. Collins, feeling her friend has sacrificed principle for worldly advantage.

### Charlotte Lucas

Charlotte accepts Mr. Collins's proposal pragmatically, valuing security over romance, and resolves to inform Elizabeth herself.

### Mr. Collins

Mr. Collins quickly transfers his affections to Charlotte after Elizabeth's refusal, proposing successfully and eagerly planning their marriage.

### Sir William Lucas

Sir William and Lady Lucas joyfully consent to the match, seeing it as advantageous for their daughter.

### Lady Lucas

Lady Lucas begins calculating Mr. Bennet's life expectancy, pleased with the prospect of Charlotte's future wealth.

### Mrs. Bennet

Mrs. Bennet mistakenly believes Mr. Collins intends to court one of her younger daughters, showing her persistent matchmaking hopes.

## Key lines

> Miss Lucas, who accepted him solely from the pure and disinterested desire of an establishment, cared not how soon that establishment were gained.

Charlotte accepted Mr. Collins purely for the sake of securing a comfortable home, without any romantic attachment.

_Highlights Charlotte's pragmatic view of marriage as a means of financial security._

> I am not romantic you know. I never was. I ask only a comfortable home; and considering Mr. Collins's character, connections, and situation in life, I am convinced that my chance of happiness with him is as fair, as most people can boast on entering the marriage state.

Charlotte explains to Elizabeth that she is not romantic and only seeks a comfortable home, believing her prospects for happiness with Mr. Collins are as good as anyone's.

_Charlotte defends her decision, emphasizing her practical, unromantic approach to marriage._

## Links

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