Pride and Prejudice · Chapter
Chapter XXXIII explained
Elizabeth learns from Colonel Fitzwilliam that Mr.
What happens
Elizabeth learns from Colonel Fitzwilliam that Mr. Darcy interfered to separate Bingley from Jane, confirming her suspicions and deepening her resentment. She also encounters Darcy multiple times during her walks, leading to awkward conversations and further reflection on his character.
Themes in this chapter
Pride and Prejudice
Darcy's pride leads him to judge Jane's family connections as unsuitable, causing Elizabeth's prejudice against him to deepen.
Social Class and Status
Colonel Fitzwilliam discusses the financial constraints on younger sons; Darcy's objections to Jane's family highlight class barriers.
Reputation and Appearance
Darcy's interference is motivated by concerns over Bingley's reputation and connections, while Elizabeth's indignation stems from perceived injustice.
Characters to notice
- Elizabeth Bennet
Learns of Darcy's interference in Bingley and Jane's relationship; reflects on his pride and its consequences.
- Mr. Darcy
Repeatedly encounters Elizabeth on her walks; his questions suggest interest in her feelings and future visits to Kent.
- Colonel Fitzwilliam
Reveals Darcy's role in separating Bingley from a 'most imprudent marriage'; discusses his own dependence as a younger son.
- Jane Bennet
Mentioned as the victim of Darcy's interference; Elizabeth reflects on her suffering.
- Mr. Bingley
Implied as the friend Darcy saved from an imprudent marriage.
Key passages
“He had ruined for a while every hope of happiness for the most affectionate, generous heart in the world; and no one could say how lasting an evil he might have inflicted.”
Elizabeth believes Darcy has destroyed Jane's chance at happiness and may have caused lasting harm.
Elizabeth's internal reaction to learning of Darcy's role in separating Bingley and Jane.
“Younger sons cannot marry where they like.”
Colonel Fitzwilliam explains that younger sons of aristocrats are often unable to marry for love due to financial constraints.
Reflects the social and economic pressures on younger sons in Regency England.