Wednesday, March 20, 2013

In Pride and Prejudice, why does Charlotte agree to marry Mr. Collins?

Charlotte agrees to marry Mr. Collins for security and to avoid remaining an "old maid."  Although her friend, Elizabeth, refused Mr. Collins' proposal, Charlotte decided to marry him when he asked her.

The times being what they were, it was difficult for a woman to remain unmarried.  She was dependent on her father, then on any brothers, to support her until she found a husband who would take over that duty.  Sounds pretty amazing from our 21st-century perspective, and yet, that's how it was.  Charlotte, fortunately, is patient enough to endure Mr. Collins' less than desirable personality traits, specifically the way he sucks up to Lady Catherine de Bourgh, and so feels that she made a very good match.

Check the link below for more information on all of the characters from this book.  Good luck!

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