2) Please re-read the letters from Jane Austen's novel.
3) Choose a character from Pride & Prejudice and take on that persona. Think about a character you want to write to as you...
4) ...compose a letter explaining your experience reading this novel (Use the rubric below)
5) Post the letter to Turnitin.com Our class is Survey of British Literature.
Class ID is: 19413849 Enrollment key is: janeausten
6) Post your letter in this blog space to share with your classmates.
7) The letter is due Thursday, October 25th.
8) THIS IS WORTH A MAJOR GRADE, SO TAKE IT SERIOUSLY.
Example of Greatness from Last Year's Class:
Dear Lady Catherine de Bourgh,
It is of greatest honor that I write to such a prestigious
and honorable character like yourself, and I write with hopes of neither
displeasing nor angering your ladyship. As a clergyman upon your grounds, I
have dedicated my life to the propriety and wellbeing of those who pass through
the fields of Rosings Park, and with such responsibility, I bring your
attention upon a novel I have discovered in the library of my lovely Charlotte.
Though “My dear Charlotte and I have but one mind and one way of
thinking”(181), being in possession of this book does not conclude that I agree
with its contents. Your ladyship is most kind and polite, so I entreat your
ladyship to not think that in revealing the contents of Pride and Prejudice I
mean to harm.
When reading a book, I am always looking for the accuracy
and enjoyment I may pull from within its pages. When time allowed it, for I am
a very determined and diligent man of my trade, I looked for such themes. When
describing the homes and style of living, I dare say that it was rather
agreeable. When recounting events or things of the past, I have found it most
effective and poetic when comparing what I mean to explain to something found
in pleasant society. In establishing a connection with whom I speak with, it
may also be pleasing to the ears. So, while reading this novel, I found that
the environment for the story was very well done, and in doing so was rather
like the scenery in a painting in which it provides a backdrop to the plot.
Though, I must add, when the plot reached your abode, Lady Catherine, it could
not encapsulate the grandeur and magnificence of where within you reside.
However, was it ever deemed possible to fit the beauty of Rosings Park into
words? Neither a painting nor a book could ever give the halls of your manor
justice.
Now, Lady Catherine, I must provide the misfortune of the
plot to your ladyship. Though to some it may be tolerable, and dare I say
enjoyable, its vulgarity and ill judgement of my patroness could never tempt
me. I am a man of integrity, and such insults thrust upon myself and my
ladyship are unforgivable. It begins in the home of the Bennet family, and
unfairly follows the story of Elizabeth Bennet, whom though I may have
affection for, since she is my cousin, I believe her tales are far less
entertaining than yours. Her wit and intelligence catches the attention of your
nephew, Mr. Darcy. Though maybe in another setting their match would have been
agreeable, Mr. Darcy should have been alongside your wonderful daughter. It was
enjoyable to observe her change in perception of your nephew over the course of
the book, since I already knew that any relative of Lady Catherine de Bourgh
must be well natured. It was particularly interesting when after reading the
contents of Mr. Darcy’s letter how quickly her opinion changes. As she
understands her mistakes, “She grew absolutely ashamed of herself. - Of neither
Darcy nor Wickham could she think, without feeling that she had blind, partial,
prejudiced, absurd”(174) and quickly sees the amiability of the young Mr.
Darcy. Now, like the pulling of a bandage from a festering wound, I must
endeavor to describe what this book thinks of your ladyship and myself as
quickly as possible. First, upon my arrival at Longbourn, I intended to present
myself with the utmost formality. However, when reading this book, I discovered
that I was not thought as highly. After praising your gardens, “Mr Bennet’s
expectations were fully answered. His cousin was as absurd as he had
hoped…”(57). Never, in the course of my life, has such been said about me. It
is difficult to brush aside such a comment, but then again, I must remind
myself that Mr Bennet, though pleasant, may not be as level headed as I am.
However, when I showed this to Charlotte, she was not as displeased as I had
hoped, and perhaps a chuckle was emitted, but I dare to wish it was a sob.
Then, when Elizabeth visited Rosings, “There was little to be done but to hear
Lady Catherine talk, which she did....delivering her opinion on every
subject...as proved that she was not used to have her judgement
controverted”(137). How dare this Jane Austen question the authority of the
Lady Catherine de Bourgh? A woman of such great intellect like yourself should
never be judged. Then, when you tried to persuade Elizabeth to avoid a
marriage, as it would be harmful to the pride and wellbeing of your family, the
author had the nerve to side with Elizabeth. Please Lady Catherine, do not let
these foul words wound you. Enjoy your evening, and I hope this letter may keep
Pride and Prejudice away from you, because though it may be a good read for a
simpleton, such words are beneath you.
Sincerely,
Mr. Collins
Jane Austen Letter Criteria & Rubric
A range has the following qualities:
- Well-written 1-2 page letter
- Genuine review of the novel using apt and specific details from the novel
- Voice is clear, as is the person to whom it is written
- Apt and specific references to the characters are employed in the letter
- Apt and specific references to plot points are employed in the letter
- Passion and a satirical flare of Austen are present
- Jane Austen would be proud!
B range
- Adequately written one page letter
- General review of the novel using some examples from the novel
- Voice is not quite as clear as the A, as is the person to whom it is written
- Some references to the characters are employed in the letter
- Some references to plot points are employed in the letter
- Bingley says, "Excellent!"
C range has the following qualities:
- Adequately written letter
- General review of the novel, with few examples from the text
- Voice is not clear, as is the person to whom it is written
- Few references to the characters are employed in the letter
- Few references to plot points are employed in the letter
- Sir. Lucas says, "Capital! Capital!"
D and F range has the following qualities:
- Letter is written
- General review of the novel with no examples from the text
- Voice is not clear, as is the person to whom it is written
- No references to the characters are employed in the letter
- No references to plot points are employed in the letter
- Lady Catherine DeBourg says, "I am quite put out!"
Please read this letter from the University of Pemberley
I was deferred!
What? Collins Community College, too? That was my safety!
Spoiler Alert! The Stunning Conclusion to Cozy Classics
How awesome is this cover for Jane Austen's Emma?!
I think I can explain why I couldn't find any suitable characters. (To place on the writing end or on the receiving end.) You see, the reason why I didn't enjoy Pride and Prejudice is because of the commercialism/transactions, the sexism, and everybody's tedious indecision that wouldn't allow time for anything truly exciting. But there is nobody in this book whom I wouldn't put it past to point out such a thing, or do something about it. And making unrelated references doesn't count. I was wrong, I didn't have an idea.
ReplyDeleteYou see, that was before anyone even cared about this stuff, so I couldn't get into character if I wanted to. I'm doomed.
DeleteNo one did seem to care, which was making me cross, and it didn't take long till my patience was lost! For 262 pages, I put up with this now. My opinion must be manifested, but how? Wait, I've got an idea, an awful idea. This may be a wonderful, awful idea! I know just what to do; Mr. Collins will say that he's taking the Bennet Estate anyway. What a great, honest-to-Carrie-White, Grinchy trick! I can rant about parts that were making me sick!
DeleteDear Sir, [Mr. Bennet]
DeleteI know your daughters have been getting married, but I’m going to have to take the Longbourn estate anyway. I was hoping to marry Elizabeth, who came across as the active, useful gentlewoman my patroness, Lady Catherine de Bourgh, told me to marry. But she wasn’t up for it. Why did she have to say so at the last minute, when I was in the house? I could’ve found Charlotte Lucas and married her at once! Not that I wasn’t actually hoping to turn your wealth over to the Hunsford Parsonage. Why, after so much complicated planning, does everything have to change on such short notice?
After Elizabeth rejected me, I consulted Lady Catherine, and she told me that if that’s an inconvenience, I haven’t seen anything yet! She was also hoping for a marriage between her own daughter and her nephew, Fitzwilliam Darcy, linking her estate to his. But he’s married, surprisingly, to Elizabeth. Well, I’ve never failed my patroness, and I’m not going to! I’ll take your estate, even though Charlotte has never had anything to do with it!
Why didn’t I bring this up sooner? The Longbourn estate could be connected to the parsonage at once! Lady Catherine’s carriages will fit in your driveway just fine, even though she’s got many. You know what, I could even count this as my vengeance upon Elizabeth! (Don’t tell her that, she’d probably fight me.)
I do not intend to make life harder for any of you. Lady Catherine tells me it’s my sworn duty as a clergyman to do something like this, and it’s for the better. Despite this, I still remain, with respects not only to your lady and daughters, but also your new sons-in-law, your well-wisher and friend.
William Collins
Now, to give you some context, the reason Mr. Collins would inform Mr. Bennet that he was going to take everything anyway is that it was all I could think of to express anything related to the impatience that I was feeling while reading the book, and still work with available characters.
DeleteThe only thing I feel are a bit problematic are the fact that you started the letter stating Dear Sir, which I don't think gives Mr. Bennet due respect. I think it'll be better to start merely saying Mr. Bennet, or Dear Mr. Bennet would be better.
DeleteBut in the letter on pages 42-43, Mr. Collins does start his letter to Mr. Bennet that way.
DeleteHere's mine: (It had to be separated)
ReplyDeleteMy Dearest Miss Jane Austen,
DeleteOn behalf of my (occasional) exasperated pride, I felt compelled to write to you on the topic of your novel, Pride and Prejudice. Of course, with this title, you were undoubtedly referring to my inescapable personality, but I also noticed that, perhaps, I was not the only individual involved with such characteristics. The curse of my singular story on the events of the novel, blinded me from the thoughts and actions of others, which led me to reflect on my actions and their consequences. By only possessing the experience of my personal perspective, the novel aided in bringing me to new conclusions on those past events. I had not previously recognized my impertinence at my first ball with the Bennets, however, you did. I had been overwhelmed with pride and my preconceived prejudices of the families, and my incivility towards those attending is now acknowledged by me; especially my incivility towards my wife, who, as you know, I had only received my first glances of that night. That particular scene was astonishingly arduous for me to register because, not only of Elizabeth’s, but of the Bennet’s thoughts of my character. Apparently, under the specific circumstances, Elizabeth overheard my distasteful conversation with Bingley over the absence of handsome ladies at the ball and my refusal to dance with her. She supposedly “remained with no very cordial feelings” towards me, as you described (7). Although ashamed, I persisted reading, and uncovered Mrs. Bennet’s opinions of myself, in which she claimed that I was “a most disagreeable, horrid man, not at all worth pleasing,” and that I was “so high and so conceited” (8). I now understand the consequences of such first impressions. However, I believe you did an exceptional job describing the ball and the defects of Elizabeth’s family. I also admit, after further evaluation, that Jane did love Bingley, despite my ignorance, and that perhaps I was not the only individual misguided from her affections. From the perspective of myself, it did not seem as if Jane returned Bingley’s affections in a fair manner. However, in a consultation between Charlotte and Elizabeth, Charlotte acknowledged Bingley’s sentiments, as did I, “but he may never do more than like her, if she does not help on on” (14). Thus misguided, I made the poor decision of separating the couple, earning Elizabeth’s ill thought of me. As infuriated I was of Elizabeth’s opinion of me regarding the situation, I understand her grievances she possessed with her single perspective. I acknowledge their affections towards the other was true and just, and perhaps my pride shielded me from that conclusion. I value your exploration into the depths of their relation.
I noticed in many of Elizabeth’s meetings, I was the general topic of conversation, which proved her unknowing affections further. Within a conversation between her and Wickham, I was pleasantly taken aback that she was intrigued with my character and longed for more details on my character. I am, however, offended that my dearest Elizabeth would refer to Wickham for such information, and that “Mr. Wickham began the subject himself” (52). The evidence of my character he presented was not incorrect, but his bias affected Elizabeth’s opinions of myself, causing the situation to accelerate. I understand such opinions were not your own, yet still, I urge you to confirm that Elizabeth truly felt so ill of me. This ill perception makes me seem a wicked being for much of the novel. When Elizabeth states, “I had not thought Mr. Darcy so bad as this- though I have never liked him, I had not thought so ill of him… but [I] did not suspect him of descending to such malicious revenge, such injustice, such inhumanity as this!” I was discontented that she accredited his harsh tale (55). However, I must have undergone a major transformation in which she would agree to marry me after all. As to not ramble on any further, I thought your novel brought great perspective on the events, but that painting me substantially wicked to the audience brought me some offense. I thought the exchanges between Wickham and Elizabeth quite comedic after her reading of my letter, and the portrayal of her disordered family was almost exact. Although I am painted so wicked, your writing was noteworthy enough to exhibit my transformation as a character and a person. I am inspired now to peruse your past and future works. My wife and I give gracious thanks for shedding new light on our story.
DeleteBest Regards,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
What if someone did Mr. Darcy and he stopped reading in the middle the book and just started defending himself.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteDear Miss Austen,
ReplyDeleteI hope this letter has found you well. I paid for the most expensive service they had to make sure it was delivered as soon as possible. I wanted to inform you that I have finished reading this fine bit of literature yours not too long ago. What was it? “Pride and Prejudice” I believe? Or perhaps it was “First Impressions”? Nevertheless, I would like to share my experience and personal opinion on this book and what it entails. To start off, I must tell you that this novel is one of the best bits of literature my fine eyes have seen. My dearest Elizabeth has also pursued through this novel and she’s had mixed feelings throughout the reading sessions. As her being a female, I am sure you know that “A lady's imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love... in a moment” (18). I do hope she enjoyed it. Forgive me, I have gone off onto a small tangent. But, there are a few things I would like to discuss with you regarding the content specifically. When Lizzy and I met at the first ball, I was not aware that she overheard the conversation between Bingley and I. Pondering back on it, perhaps I should not have said that Lizzy was “tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me…” (7). I must admit I was in a sour mood that evening, and for that I apologize. To continue onward, I apologize for being so ignorant to Miss Lizzy’s situation, I should have picked my words more carefully when asking for her hand in marriage. I must admit she made me a tad bit heated, specifically with her saying “Mr. Darcy, if you suppose that the mode of your declaration affected me in any other way, than as it spared me the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner” (131). It pains me to remember that phrase. Though I suppose it is quite funny to think the same woman who said that to me turned out to be my future wife. I do think your portrayal of me was nearly spot on, however I don’t believe I was as cold as I was made out to be. But I suppose it cannot be helped now. To recap, I quite enjoyed this novel of yours. I feel as though I might peruse through it again sometime.
Regards,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
Dear Mr. Darcy,
ReplyDeleteI know that you are a private person, as am I, which is why I wanted to send you this letter as an apology for what was revealed in the novel Pride and Prejudice. It was so shocking to see our lives on the page in such a manner. I know that I am being bold in corresponding with you this way, but I felt that it is necessary to address some of my concerns with what transpired between all of us. I bear no ill will towards you, but I find that I must correct some of the feeling that you had towards me and towards my dear sister, Lizzy.
I want you to know that I never felt unkindly towards you. I am a reserved person, very much accustomed to holding my feelings close to me. I know that Lizzy is brave and speaks her mind, but I can not be so with most people. I felt an instant kinship towards Mr. Bingley, though I now know that you did not see it that way. To be honest, my first meeting with him was greatly overshadowed with Lizzy’s reaction towards you that I am not sure that anyone noted much of anything in my regards towards him. However, in recuperating in Mr. Bingley’s home during my illness, I found that I was quite drawn to your entire group. However, upon witnessing Miss Bingley’s behaviour towards my dear sister, I felt that it was for the best that we return to our home (41). While I may have wished to spend more time in the accompaniment of Mr. Bingley, it was in the interest of Lizzy’s feelings that I wished to be removed. She did not enjoy being the bane of Miss Bingley’s feelings towards you or the manner in which you ignored or argued with her.
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DeleteI would also like to address the incidents that could have guided my harsh feelings towards you that were uncovered in this novel. I would like to let it be understood that I felt nothing but sympathy towards you and your sister for the behavior of Mr. Wickham. It was past belief that he could have acted so towards you! He was such a good man towards all of us, especially Lizzy, that I would never have thought it possible that he could have been so cruel towards you. I exclaimed all of my feelings towards you to Lizzy when she told me of your letter to her (in strictest confidence) and could not help but see how our opinion of you became lighter (156). I do, however, after seeing the full letter revealed, have to say how hurt I am that your judgment of me would come so swiftly after merely seeing the silliness that can sometimes be displayed by my family. You should now that I was deeply in love with Mr. Bingley and that any animosity of Lizzy towards you was only deepened by your behavior towards me. I am not, as I said, a person who becomes emotional in public, or in private either, but I did hold ill feelings for you for a bit. This is tempered, of course, by the realization that you could simply not have understood my feelings directly.
In the end, I am pacified by, and delighted with, your journey towards my sister and the assistance you lent Mr. Bingley in finally being able to approach me. I assume it was your design after your encounters with Lizzy and also with my family when you both returned to Netherfield. I must tell you that had those occasions not occurred, I am not sure where we would all be at this time. Most of all though, I must thank you for finally approaching my sister for a second declaration. I know that pride can often create problems in how we feel and act. I am often too shy due to my pride, and perhaps my fear. After the visit from Lady Catherine, I feared truly that Lizzy may not allow you the opportunity again (250). It was such a shocking thing, to see Lizzy so determined not to give you up, such a surprise to me as she had not said anything to allude to a wish for you at that point. I would like you to know that in spite of all that happened between you and Lizzy, I found your pursuit of her to be highly romantic. I know that you must have had the highest regard for her, if not for our family, in how you took care of us in the end. Your wish to introduce Georgiana to Lizzy, assisting Lydia and Wickham, and giving Mr. Bingley your blessing, were all attestations to this point.
I do not hold grudges. It is not in my heart to do so. I hope that you find happiness and that you take care of my dearest sister for all time.
Sincerely,
Jane Bingley
Dear Miss. Austen,
ReplyDeleteI have just now put down your novel Pride and Prejudice, the story that depicts me and my families hopes, struggles and eventually (thank goodness) happy ending. I must say, I find your courage and creativity as a woman to be very inspiring and I like to think you wrote some of your good nature into me. However, it was difficult for me to read about how poor my judgement on my beloved Darcy was, it makes me wince to recall how quick I was to take the despicable Wickham’s word on Darcy just so I had a further excuse to dislike him. I quite often pride myself on my clever judgement, in comparison to my good sister Jane who sees the light in every person, but when it came to the man who saved the fate of my family, I was terribly mistaken. On page 141, my upright disappointment in myself is quite evident, “‘How despicably have I acted!...’I who have prided myself on my discernment!-I, who have valued myself on my abilities! Who have often disdained the generous candor my sister, and gratified my vanity, in useless or blameable distrust.-How humiliating is this discovery!”, thanks to you, Jane, I was capable of seeing past my first impression (which I hear was your original idea for a title, very fitting) and got a second chance with Mr. Darcy, resulting in my happiness. And of course, the disaster that is my little sister running off with Mr. Wickham, although I’m aware of how this ends, these contents still give me distress to read. Lydia gave my family much grief and the letter written by her to Colonel Forster’ wife on page 195 shows of her ignorance. Overall, I adore your writing and I can’t help but notice the similarities that you and I share, I presume these similarities were intentional. For example, I hear you had a very close relationship with your sister, sharing secrets and balancing each other out, much like Jane and I. We come from the same class level and understand from a young age that in order to survive in this world you must marry into a family better off than your own and to be anything other than a wife is unusual, however you and I both see greatness for ourselves and all women, and it is things like writing novels and refusing unwanted proposals that will lead us closer to the world we both dream of. I must thank you, Jane for this beautiful piece of literature, that I know will be treasured by many, including myself. Good luck to you.
Sincerely, Elizabeth Bennet
Dear Mr. Bennet,
ReplyDeleteMy cousin, I feel it upon my duty to inquire the actions of your respectable family as described in Pride and Prejudice, upon the behalf of Lady Catherine de Bourgh. But first, Mrs. Collins and I would like to congratulate the marriage of my two cousins Jane and Lydia. They have each found themselves a respectable man. As my lovely Charlotte informs me, Mr. Bingley is a very amiable, respectable man. So I believe my cousin should be blessed to attain such a man’s attention. On the subject of your youngest daughter, I rejoice in the quick ending of your poor Lydia’s elopement. Now I can wish nothing better than a happy to them both. Having said Mrs. Collins and my own sincerest congratulations, I would like to add perhaps a small piece of advice on the subject of your second daughter. As a clergyman and patroness of Lady Catherine, I was displeased by the behaviour of your daughter. I could not believe that my dear niece could deny such “circumstances highly in my favour” (75). I understand that she may feel she could not be able to provide a small fortune, but to this I am perfectly indifferent. Despite my distinguished position as the patronage of the honourable Lady, she favours the Lady’s nephew instead. In doing so, she has slighted her Ladyship, an action that I find most questionable. As you know, I have resorted to visit your abode “to get away till the storm was blown over” (258) as a result of her Ladyship’s undesirable anger.
Yet I find their relationship astonishing as described in Pride and Prejudice. I believe at her first sight of him, she was disgusted by his pride at Mr. Bingley’s ball. But after she encountered him several times here in Hunsford and nearby Rosings at Lady Catherine’s humble abode, she understood all of the advantageous circumstances in his favor . Yes, especially the letter handed to her by Mr. Darcy certainly seemed to have changed her opinion of the amiable man. Especially the mentioning of his position of the situation with Wickham seemed to break through her headstrong ideas. Yet, it was his amiable qualifications that made his second proposal highly desirable to her as opposed to his situation in life. I must say, however, the second proposal must have been just as desirable to her as the first one. After all, “‘it is usual with young ladies to reject the addresses of the man whom they secretly mean to accept’” (74). However, this slightly imprudent decision has resulted in the Ladyship’s anger. But I assure you, I have no intentions of making you or your daughter feel regret. However, it seems somewhat strange to me that you have not noticed this growing relationship between your daughter and her “chosen partner of fate, may be reasonably looked up to, as one of the most illustrious personages in this land” (244). Has she not told you of these feelings towards his amiable qualifications? Honestly, I am quite puzzled. Perhaps you should read the book Pride and Prejudice to enlighten yourself on this situation of your family. If you travel to my humble abode, I may lend you one or you may see Lady Catherine de Bourgh and allow her generous Ladyship to describe it to you.
Sincerely,
Mr. Collins
Dear Miss Jane Austen,
ReplyDeleteIt is such a great pleasure to be writing to you directly ma'am. I just finished your masterpiece of writing known as ‘Pride and Prejudice’. I am overjoyed by how accurately you portrayed the events leading up to me and my dear Jane’s wedding day. The details on Darcy’s relationship was most interesting indeed, I didn’t think he could even express emotions haha. The section that got me engrossed in Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship was when my dear friend Darcy first proposes to Miss Elizabeth Bennet then sadly gets rejected. I feel a bit guilty about her bitterness towards him, if I wasn’t persuaded by Darcy so easily then maybe she wouldn’t have held a grudge against him. As Elizabeth harshly puts it “You are mistaken, Mr. Darcy, if you suppose that the mode of your declaration affected me in any other way, than as it spared the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner” (131). I do wholeheartedly apologize for having Darcy portrayed this due my ability to be swayed by others. Luckily it did work out in the end and they had a splendid wedding along with Jane and myself.
On another subject I do have to praise my dear friend once more in this passage as to when Wickham eloped with poor Miss Lydia Bennet my dearest friend got them married as an effort to protect the honor of the Bennet family and through this he won over Miss Elizabeth in the process. Even though I do wish you had been more front about this predicament Miss Austen, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time while reading this section even while knowing the outcome! When Darcy payed off all of that dastardly Mr. Wickham’s debts and got him to get together with Lydia was a gesture of pure gentlemanship indeed.
Mind I not forget what a great skill for writing you have, I am quite jealous indeed. I do think you’d get along with Darcy quite well as you both share a skill with writing. Moving on from praising my friend there I must congratulate your ability to write settings in such details. While I was reading the portion regarding Lady Elizabeth’s trip to Derbyshire was described excellently indeed. The balls were magnificently chronicled as well with your words invoking the same liveliness felt at the balls themself. I especially enjoyed the ball at Netherfield described at the beginning of the book as it brought back such fantastic memories.
All in all “Pride and Prejudice” was a great read that me and many of my acquaintances enjoyed from the minute it was picked to the moment I finished reading. In fact I do plan to read this book to my eventual children when the time comes. Thank you for composing such an excellent work that can be enjoyed by all. Hopefully this letter reaches you without an problems and you’re able to see how much I enjoyed your piece of literature.
Best wishes,
Mr. Bingley
Dear Miss Austen,
ReplyDeleteAlthough the story you have told is quite charming, I found myself at a dislike with how Darcy was perceived. Miss Austen, i'm sorry to say that this man is not as agreeable as you make him out to be. If you need assistance with writing Darcy's character, I will be more than happy to be of your acquaintance. But if you wished to finish this matter alone, allow me to enlighten you of his character. As i've said before, Mr. Darcy is an evil, unagreeable and prideful man. He is a man of selfish ways and I do not believe that he showed up to my wedding for the liking of Miss Eliza Bennet. I do believe however, that he was here to simply ruin my mood, he knows how much I dislike his presence in a room. I very much like his portrayal in the beginning of the novel. Even his own Elizabeth was shocked by the utter “rudeness of Mr.Darcy”(8). What I am struggling to understand is how Miss Bennet ever fell in love with the man? He did say that she was not handsome enough to tempt him. How does that make him a likeable man and suitable for a husband?
I also dislike my portrayal in the novel. You have shown me in an unflattering and disagreeable way. As if I was the enemy in this. Surely I am a quite an agreeable man, after all I had three woman show affection towards me and sought my hand in marriage; the one woman Darcy proposed to said that he ruined her life because of the way he treated me. Even Miss Lydia Bennet ran away with me. I do not believe that this event was as dreadful as you showed it to be, she simply ran away with me because she was in love. My intentions with Lydia was always to marry her, I was just planning our future. I'm not particularly wealthy, so I thought it would be reasonable to ask the Bennets for a small amount of cash to support their daughter. It was kind of Darcy to supplement the dowry for my Lydia, perhaps it was the kindest thing he has done in ages.
As for the topic of Miss King, I feel as I should defend myself in that. I did not appreciate the accusations that I was to marry her just to elevate my social status and inherit more money. Claiming that I didn't pay her “not the smallest attention, till the her grandfathers death”(105). What a heinous accusation Miss Austen. I am extremely disappointed that a smart woman as yourself would think this way of me. She was a kind and agreeable young girl and I did fancy her very much, but I was only planning for the future - even Miss Bennet said so herself. Though Eliza defended me multiple times throughout the novel, I was quite disappointed to hear that she thought so badly of me after Darcy's letter. He was very dramatic in telling her of our past events. That man is fond of distracting others from his pride with my past. Afterall he is the one that withheld money from me, he is the one at fault in this situation. Why would Miss Bennet believe a man who said she is only tolerable, let alone marry him; in my opinion, she made a considerable mistake.
In regards to Mr. Darcy’s letter, I would like to address the topic of his sister. Georgiana was a young girl yes, and she did love me, I too loved her. Disheartened by your accusation that I “persuaded (her) to believe herself in love, and to consent into elopement"(137). I never persuaded her, it was really Darcy being lost in his pride. Unlike he, I was thinking about the wealth of other , not just myself. He would have had me as a brother, how fine would that have been.
Miss Austen, I will request of you to write the novel, but make it accurate of this time. Make me into the true gentleman I am. Add in that I am very agreeable and take away all of the disgusting accusations you have made about me. Perhaps you don't fully understand the events that have taken place so I suggest you go back and further your understanding to get a true authenticity in the story. I wish you great luck on these new additions.
Yours sincerely,
George Wickham
Cora Steffenson
DeleteHere's my letter:
ReplyDeleteDear Lady Catherine de Bourgh,
Elizabeth ran across a book yesterday which caught both of our interests, as it is a surprisingly accurate representation of the events almost a year preceding and those leading up to the marriage of Elizabeth and I. I wished to test its accuracy, and seeing as it was following Elizabeth and somewhat written from her perspective, she had the most affirming to do. The title of the book is Pride and Prejudice and it purports to having been written by Jane Austen. From what we can tell it is shockingly accurate to the events. My letters were perfectly copied, which leads me to suspect that Miss Austen had somehow gotten her hands on them. There is more to do with the book than summarize and wonder, however. It seems that as the time of my second proposal was nearing, you visited the Bennet household to dissuade Elizabeth from marrying me. You are reported to have asked her, and I quote “‘Tell me once for all, are you engaged to him?’ ‘And will you promise me, never to enter into such an engagement?’”(240). She, happily, refused your promise. I am astonished, that my Aunt would visit the house of someone that I love to dissuade them, to make them give you their word, that they would not marry me. I have severely misjudged my family connections, I was blinded into thinking of you as a civil, level-headed Lady. We have, you know, since being married, dined at Rosings at your request. After having the truth revealed to me, I am not sorry to say that our visits to Rosings have ended, even with the ending being so abrupt. Continuing on with the novel, to the subject of your clergyman, Mr. Collins. While I hate to think that he proposed before even myself, and that, had Elizabeth any feelings for him she would have married him, I am relieved by the fact that she never had any. He seems to me a societal leech, always mentioning Rosings as if it were his own, which he acknowledges is owned by you both too frequently and too infrequently. I find it impossible to find a sentence that he utters without mentioning your home, and find him insufferable for his dull conversation, if for nothing else. There is only one thing he has said that I have experience with, and thus must agree with him on, and that is “‘young ladies’ ‘reject the addresses of the man they secretly mean to accept’”(74). While I have cut part of the sentence, I did have to propose to Elizabeth twice in order to secure my happiness. There are no places in the book that make me disagree with Elizabeth in her sentiments, that not ever seeing Mr. Collins again would be a positive aspect to no longer visiting Rosings. While we are no longer visiting, I, at least, do not hate you. That is why I sincerely recommend cutting off your patronage with Mr. Collins, for he is envious of your possessions, and at least once was, of my wife. My final note on this book is how it portrays me, more specifically in the first part. While I do not enjoy how it depicts me, I cannot argue that I earned the following description based upon my actions, at that first ball. “his manners gave a disgust which turned the tide of his popularity; for he was discovered to be proud, to be above his company, and above being pleased”(6). To clarify, I am the man who is being described in that sentence. Above all, I find Pride and Prejudice to be a shockingly accurate, if unpleasant, representation of the events of that year or so. I hope you read it, for it reveals more flaws, not only of yourself, than I have mentioned in this letter.
God bless you,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
“Be not alarmed, Madam, on receiving this letter, by the apprehension of its containing any repetition of those sentiments, or renewal of those offers, which were last night so disgusting to you. I write without any intention of paining you, or humbling myself, by dwelling on wishes, which, for the happiness of both, cannot be too soon forgotten; and the effort which the formation and the perusal of this letter must occasion should have been spared, had not my character required it to be written and read. You must, therefore, pardon the freedom with which I demand your attention; your feelings, I know, will bestow it unwillingly, but I demand it of your justice(133).” I immediately noticed strife among the protagonists as you and your family. I must, despite myself, confess that the novel accurately portrays me in light that I did not intend to display, and my propriety was shrouded in a guise of pride, especially towards that of Mr. Wickham.
ReplyDeleteDear Ms. Austen,
ReplyDeleteI am quite pleased to not have formal acquaintance with you, Ms. Austen. You may know me as Caroline Bingley. I have read your novel Pride and Prejudice, and though the language and the writing is extensively well, I denounce many of the claims you have made in its plot. First, I will address the main subject of the book: Ms. Elizabeth Bennet, now Mrs. Darcy. I have always adored the Bennet family, especially now that my dear brother Charles is married to wonderful Jane. You have declared that I “began abusing [Elizabeth] as soon as she was out of the room” (23) and that her “manners were pronounced to be very bad indeed, a mixture of pride and impertinence; she had no conversation, no stile, no taste, no beauty” (23). To be defamed in such a way! How impertinent of a claim, Ms. Austen. In actuality, I did mention that her petticoat should be sent to be cleaned. I understand the dear sisterly bond Elizabeth has with sweet Jane, and if I were raised as she were by Mrs. Bennet, who we both acknowledge has a flair for dramatics and less class than my own upbringing, I might as well find myself trampling through the mud like the common beggar. Ms. Austen, I perceive your character to have no brilliancy nor extraordinary features if your lies reflect so. But on the subject of Mr. Collins’s proposal, though I as well would shy away as Elizabeth happened to, I find that such a union would have been very fitting for both parties, and I find it a shame that those events played out as they did.
In assessing my relationship betwixt Mr. Darcy and myself, I have found many holes in your writings. You believed me to be “jealous” and had a “desire of getting rid of Elizabeth” (35). Such unfounded judgements you have made Ms. Austen! I know my relations with Mr. Darcy are agreeable, so agreeable that I am called to Pemberley every Christmas. In addition to this fact, I would never attempt to “provoke Darcy into disliking [Elizabeth]” (35). Such false testimonies show a level of disrespect and I can only estimate what connections you possess. Ms. Austen, you also wrote untruthfully in regard to the contents of Mr. Darcy’s letter to Elizabeth. The letter proclaims Mr. Darcy, my dear Louisa, and myself as the perpetrators of removing my brother Charles from darling Jane’s company. This is inaccurate, as it was Mr. Darcy’s objection and deceit alone. I place blame not on him, as he acted for Charles’s benefit, and Mr. Darcy’s judgement in love is flawed, and he knows not what he truly loves or despises nor what others’ endearments are until the moment has passed. I believe he will come to his senses undoubtedly in the future, and I await until such occurs, for conversation with him will flourish on such discoveries.
Finally, my grievances end on the case of good-natured Jane. To state that in meeting Jane during the winter I “had no pleasure in” (101) seeing her. It was quite the contrary! Lying to such a degree is at your own expense, Ms. Austen, and shows that you must be unable to mend your pen well enough. I should know, as I am able to mend pens exceedingly well, a fact not unbeknownst to yourself. All such declarations that I disapproved of Jane are fallacies, for she is wonderful and amiable even as her family falls from grace. Those were some subjects I must agree upon in your writings. That Mrs. Lydia Wickham is a flighty, insolent girl and I am unsurprised at her uncivilized actions prior to her marriage. And that Mr. Darcy was the recourse in that detrimental situation is incredible, as he is a respectable man but to go so far for so crude a woman is beyond my capabilities. I believe you unable to clearly assess and demonstrate propriety to those deserving. You found this for Mr. Darcy in the end, but only upon Elizabeth’s discovery of his movements in assisting her family and Mr. Wickham’s true history. I know Mr. Darcy to be, without fault, a proud and reputable man even without such evidence. Yet I happen upon myself in this novel and no such improvements to my character is made. By the last pages I am “deeply mortified by Darcy’s marriage” which is false as well. I adore Elizabeth and her taking to Pemberley, as surrounding yourself in high society improves personage.
DeleteTo conclude, Ms. Austen, I must acknowledge your writing to be above par in fashion. Details are included and well done, and recount of scenery and various dialogue was certainly romantic. I exquisitely enjoyed many scenes and conversations. Darcy’s conviction in his first proposal convinces any reader that he is proposing to them when he proclaims “‘you must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you’” (129). Purveyors of your novel will agree that his description in falling in love with Elizabeth was passionate, as he claims “[he] cannot fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look, or the words, which laid the foundation. It is too long ago. [He] was in the middle before [he] knew that [he] had begun’” (256). Though Louisa and I must confess we believe that some loves are ephemeral in their course and new loves can be recommended in old friends, waiting for the shrews to finish their intolerable actions. For your readers’ sake, I recommend this book to those only who have prejudice toward the higher class, of whom the pride some are unable to tolerate.
Sincerely,
Caroline Bingley
Dear Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteHow are things coming along over in Pemberley? I know that you are married now and must live their from now on, but do please try to visit home. Or at least write back to me more often for I am growing tired of your mother’s constant talk of how she misses all of you. It isn’t nearly as bad as her repetitive issue with her nerves, but now she is starting to affect mine. If I may ask, has Lady Catherine De Bourgh come to challenge you for Darcey. I know Mr. Collins had continually talked of her power and prestige in his short time with us, yet she has done nothing so far against you. Which I am very thankful for. Imagine you decided to agree to his marriage. What a mistake that would have been. Anyways I am getting off topic from what I originally intended to write. I have picked up a new book by the name of Pride and Prejudice and I must say I am quite intrigued by it.
I am surprised by the amount of precision used in this book. The author was very acute in her details pertaining to our family and what we have gone through. She explained our family very well. I very strongly agree with her statement of “Lizzy has something more of quickness than her sisters”. However I find it quite discouraging in the way that she needed to use you as the basis of comparison for the other sisters. Her comments of “she is not half so handsome as Jane” and “nor half so good humoured as Lydia” put me in a bit of a mood. Although these comments were difficult to find truth with, I can be completely sure she is correct about everything she says about Mrs. Bennet’s nerves. How annoying they have grown over the years.
I am quite fascinated of the story which goes on between you and Mr. Darcey. While I am happier than ever for you, I never knew the full story that had gone on between the both of you. The sudden change in his mood towards you had utterly astounded me. The rude comments he had made about everyone at the first ball he came to really set me off during my reading. “He looked for a moment at Elizabeth… ‘She is tolerable; but not handsome enough to tempt me’”. How dare he say something like that towards my dear Lizzy. It is unimaginable that a person like that can transform into being your spouse. But so I thought. His character towards you changed very abruptly. I noticed the sudden change while you were at Netherfield and in the presence of Darcey. I noticed the way his style of speaking and his actions had changed while you were around him. Later on i found it interesting how he had managed to always run into you on your walks through the garden of Rosings Park. I find it your “ramble within the Park, unexpectedly meet Mr. Darcey” was not meant to be so unexpected. At least not on his end did it seem so. And what a surprise his marriage proposal was. I should be specific his “first” marriage proposal. How come you never told any of us about it? At least you should’ve told me. But that isn’t the matter anymore. As he had come with a second one. After his grand work with trying to fix Lydia’s situation, I was more than happy to have you accept his proposal. Speaking of his second proposal, has Lady Catherine De Bourgh disturbed you at all since? While many people may be in awe of what you did to reject her idea, I always knew that you were capable of showing your strength and standing up for yourself. I am very proud of you.
One of my most favorite things about this novel is how our relationship is portrayed. You are truly my favorite and I feel like it was able to be shown in this wonderful novel. Please write soon as it feels like you don’t do it enough. Visit us more often as this house is empty without your presence.
Sincerely,
Mr. Bennet
Nikita Orbits
DeleteDear Jane Austen,
ReplyDeleteWhen I heard of the rumor that a book was written about the illustrious Lady Catherine de Bourgh, I knew that I had to get my hands on it. The book that I put my highest expectations on left me with quite mixed emotions. You are clearly skilled at setting the scenery and atmosphere anywhere the story goes. As I read along, I could imagine myself actually being there whether it is at a ball at Netherfield Park or simply on the road, it was indeed very pleasant. Each page was a like breath of fresh air coming straight from the fields of Rosings. But as beautiful as your words are, you have based a story on the wrong subject.
Instead of the main focus being on her ladyship, it was on my cousin, Elizabeth Bennet. The Bennet family is hardly worth writing about. Their property is “almost entirely in an estate of two thousand a year”(18). Compared to my patron, the little wealth they have is absolutely meaningless. In addition, the “love” story between Elizabeth and Mr.Darcy, a respectable man I may add, could only manage to pull at the heartstrings of simpletons. In fact, it was quite tragic that Mr.Darcy had to pay a substantial amount to Mr.Wickham and ended up with someone so ill prominent. He would be in a much better position if he wed the lovely Anne de Bourgh. A story of her Lady’s daughter and nephew would be incomparably more intriguing.
I couldn’t help but notice that your writing was subpar in some parts of the novel especially when it was about me and Lady Catherine. When the Bennets finished reading my wonderfully crafted letter you added in their comment on how “there is a mixture of servility and self-importance”(43) in it. Indeed, I am a refined man and I take honor in serving Lady Catherine but there is something off-putting about this. The tone makes these appealing traits feel like insults and leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. When her ladyship was trying to prevent the horrible marriage between Elizabeth and Mr.Darcy, Elizabeth said several outright rude remarks such as “Your ladyship has declared it to be impossible”(238). Elizabeth actually had the nerve to mock the respectable women. She absolutely crossed the line when she talked back saying “But you are not entitled to know mine[relations]”(238). I will not stand to have these vile words be directed towards the lady and myself. I am already familiar with the disgrace of a person but I’m sure you did not mean to add in such comments into this book. While you made a mistake by focusing the story on Elizabeth Bennet, I trust that now you are aware of these mishaps, you will remove the foul remarks from any future prints. Along with that, you must write a formal apology to Lady Catherine de Bourgh. I do not wish to end this on a poor note as I do see the potential of excellent works if you would write with a focus on people more deserving.
Sincerely,
Mr.Collins
My Dear Lydia,
ReplyDeleteOh how I miss you! It has been so long since we last met and I can not bear to spend more time in this house without my most lovely daughter. I know that you do “not leave me because [you] are married; but only because [your] husband’s regiment happens to be so far off. If that had been nearer, [you] would not have gone so soon” (221). Yet I still miss you dearly and Mr. Bennet has no compassion on my poor nerves. He can not possibly know all that I suffer! Oh, my dear Lydia! While I was trying to find Mr. Bennet to beg of him to let you visit, I happened across a dreadful book in his office, called Pride and Prejudice. It is such a terrible book, focusing so much on Lizzy, while almost ignoring you and making it seem as if all I aim to do in life is to marry my daughters off to the wealthiest men they can find.
Whatever my gripes with that book, it spoke so kindly of my Jane. Your sister was properly written as the beauty that she is. She is the most handsome woman in any room without a doubt and I am only grateful that she was properly represented in that manner. I did not appreciate how meddlesome I seemed, but, nonetheless, Jane’s looks and charm were not slighted. And oh how I enjoyed how taken with Jane Mr. Bingley was, my he simply adored her! All of them did, even bothersome Mr. Darcy quite liked her, as proud as he is.
That beginning of that wretched book however, was absolutely terrible. I cannot believe that they would dare represent me so unkindly. I am written of as vulgar and tactless, always embarrassing my children; it seemed as though I had no care but for money! While at that ball Mr. Bingley hosted at Netherfield, the book says that Lizzy was trying to “persuade [me] to describe [my] felicity in a less audible whisper; for to [Lizzy’s] inexpressible vexation, she could perceive that the chief of it was overheard by Mr. Darcy” (68). This dreadful author portrays me as an embarrassment and unable to act correctly in social situations, only wanting money, but that simply is not true! I care so deeply for all of my daughters! Oh, the things I do for you children! I put in so much work, go to such great lengths to secure good matches for you, and yet I am written as a woman lusting after money! Is it so wrong for me to want my children to be married well? I have daughters, only daughters, so it is my job as a mother to secure matches and I simply refuse to settle for less than the best for you. The disrespect was appalling. I simply cannot believe the manner in which that odious man Mr. Darcy spoke of me, and of you! He is Lizzy’s husband and yet he spoke of us in this way. I cannot understand it, and I refuse to speak of this matter further, but I must say that this author is simply too far out of line.
The book spoke horribly of you as well! You, my beautiful girl, were written, as the book put it, “untamed, unabashed, wild, and noisy, and fearless” (211). I, of course know how completely untrue that is. The book wrote you as completely unable to properly behave in public, which I think is preposterous! You are married to good and wealthy man and still you are disrespected in this manner!
Oh my dearest Lydia, I miss you so very much! I am shocked and very displeased that a book such as this could be exist, showing you and I in such poor light, but I will not speak of its dreadfulness any further. In the meantime, life at Longborn is not the same without you, and I do not even want to think about the future where you are not here with me. Oh why must your lovely husband need to be stationed so far from us, I simply cannot bear to wait until the next time we shall meet. I send you all my love!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Bennet
Dear Elizabeth, I realize I am not always completely thorough in expressing emotion. But I would like to be fully transparent in expressing how joyed I am that you would do me the honor of joining me in marriage. I am all too aware of the rough encounters of the past which we have shared but regardless I am grateful that those encounters were of little consequence in the end and things concluded in a matter in which I could not be happier with. The reason I am penning this letter is to inform you of a novel I have recently finished. And I do say it is some of the finest pieces of writing I have had the pleasure of completing. Although I will admit it was somewhat painful to read about some of those rough encounters between us throughout the novel. Yet bad things were said regarding both parties so I feel I have nothing to apologize for nor should you. Instead we should think to put these things behind us. But If I am being transparent I never thought I could recover from such statements as “ You could not have made me the offer of your hand in any possible way that would have tempted me to accept it.” (131) or “ But it is not merely this affair,’ she continued,’on which my dislike is founded.” (130). The novel also describes long creepy which looks I gave you from across the room, the nervous conversation I had with you, or even long silences which most likely made you uncomfortable but I can assure you these were nothing other than signs of affection I tried to demonstrate towards you although I have to admit I am not the best at it.
ReplyDeleteIronically awkward encounters are some of the things that I enjoyed most about Pride and Prejudice. These encounters all felt very human for a lack of a better word. And that to me is the most agreeable aspect of the book. And I feel if it was not for these encounters the book would be otherwise a pain to read. But never judge a book by it’s cover I suppose which ironically is a major part of Pride and Prejudice and may I add that many have quite irrational opinions of myself calling me a disagreeable man yet they don’t take the liberty of getting to know me. No matter for they are not company in which I would find necessary. Regardless I am getting distracted from the novel. The novel follows the life of your family Elizabeth the Bennet’s! It follows the many different relationships and hopes of different characters and the struggles and even the evolution of some feelings. It even depicted how your feelings for me fluctuate throughout the book as you became enlightened about different things to which I was not aware of until reading the novel. This was especially intriguing to follow. I was quite fond of how Austen organized different events in the novel for example when your youngest sister Lydia ran off with that putrid former acquaintance of mine, Mr.Wickham and someone had to pay him to marry her it is originally interpreted to be your uncle that pays him off. But it is later revealed in a shocking manner than I was the person to pay the amount. Again I feel urged to apologize for hiding that from you and will do my best to be transparent henceforth. But in the end I was quite satisfied in how everything unfolded indeed. And would recommend for you to read this novel and share the same pleasures I had while doing so.
Sincerely,
Fitzwilliam Darcy
My dear Jane Austen,
ReplyDeleteI skimmed through your novel over the past weekend and I have to say that I very much enjoyed it. It reminded me of all the fun I used to have as a little girl before I got married to my dear Wickham, whom I love with all of my heart! I very much like how I was portrayed in the book, a fine young woman as I am. I was always dancing and talking with the officers, such a social butterfly! Anyways, as much as I loved the book I am troubled by some aspects of it…
First and foremost I am concerned with your use of main character as my elder sister Elizabeth. I felt that my lovely trip to Brighton was not shown in enough detail. That is where I met my dear Wickham afterall! My trip to Brighton was extravagant and could be a novel in itself. Oh! How much I miss all of those officers! Anyways, I felt that my presence in the book was lacking, afterall I am the first one of my sisters to get married. I think you should consider writing, perhaps, a second book about my trip to Brighton and what it is like to be a married woman at just fifteen. You could even go in depth about my wedding and the beautiful gown I wore. Oh it was just lovely! Of course, Pride and Prejudice was an amazing novel, but I think Elizabeth and Jane bored me. It needed more of my lively spirit.
I would also like to address the section brought up about my dear Wickham and his not actually wanting to marry me. This was, unfortunately, given to you by false information. I confirmed it with him and he did marry me because he loves me. I know his character better than anyone and know that he has changed and is a well respected gentleman. The whole regiment in the North, where I reside now, agrees upon my inquiring. He loves me very much and I can tell by the way he looks at me. It is the most genuine relationship I have ever seen.
Furthermore, the quote, “Lydia was Lydia still; untamed, unabashed, wild, noisy, and fearless.” (211), from when I came home from my trip with Wickham, was unnecessary. I was confused to why I would need to feel unabashed. If anything I should have felt proud, and that is what I did feel. I was happily married and wanted to show off my ring, and so I did. I am always a fearless woman, as all woman should be, and I deserved to be noisy as it was MY wedding day! If you were to complain about the noise of any woman it should have been my mother. As I read the novel, oh, how I could not stand my mother. How irritating she was. I was so busy with the officers and my marriage that I was oblivious to her crying and yelling. I am sure your readers will sympathize with me. I also find it quite absurd that my mother, so quickly, accepted Darcy as soon as he proposed to Elizabeth. Darcy is nothing compared to my Wickham. Elizabeth and Jane were not as lucky as I in marriage, but I am glad that, with my encouragement, they finally did marry. For marriage is a blessing and it is good to end a novel on such a lovely note. I Did, however, find the ending a little abrupt. Perhaps, as I said before, you could have entertained the reader with my life in the North with Wickham, and how splendid of a time I am having. Maybe the next novel? I am giddy at the thought!
Yours,
Lydia Wickham.
I think I know where you're coming from. There were a lot of details Jane Austen never included, that would've made this story more fun. She probably would've explained what the Wickhams were up to, and maybe even other important things we'd rather know, if she were to write Pride and Prejudice 2.
DeleteDear Jane Austen,
ReplyDeleteI finished reading your exemplary piece of literature, “Pride and Prejudice.” Indeed it is a beautiful tale that captures a love story through series of incidences and challenging obstacles we all had to overcome, but I must say I did not quite concur with the way you portrayed myself as an arrogant man with too much pride. Although you only displayed those repugnant characteristics used to describe me in the beginning of this story, I was not at all delighted that you madame, Jane Austen, introduced me to the novel as presumptuous man. With every new encounter you are judged and evaluated, therefore first impressions are utterly consequential, primarily because it is nearly impossible to reverse what someone first thought of you. "…Haughty, reserved, and fastidious, and his manners, though well bred, were not inviting" (Austen 12). Those were the exact grim ways used to designate my personality, and I reckon that you should have showed the audience who I truly was initially, a sympathetic gentleman. I must also recall the time when you informed the readers that I have made myself odious to the entire village, as well as to the Bennet family. As a matter of fact this is untrue, and I choose to believe that the village were too quick to come to a conclusion about my character.
If truth be told, yes you have incorrectly designated me to begin with, but I do certainly fathom the opening description of me walking into the ball, “He soon drew the attention of the room by his fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien” (Austen 00). Skipping over the impertinent parts of the novel, I found Mr. Collins proposal to Elizabeth entirely amusing, “My situation in life, my connections with the family of de Bourgh, and my relationship to your own, are circumstances highly in my favour... as I must therefore conclude that you are not serious in your rejection of me, I shall choose to attribute it to your wish of increasing my love by suspense, according to the usual practice of elegant females”(Austen 00). It’s absurd as to why Mr. Collins has created a pro-con list, we could all concur with the point that even though Mr. Collins would inherit their house someday and has some money Elizabeth did good by refusing his proposal. As I am still talking about this matter of proposal, let me just convey I was in AWE when Elizabeth first refused my proposition, “You are mistaken, Mr. Darcy, if you suppose that the mode of your declaration affected me in any other way, than as it spared the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentlemanlike manner” (Austen 00). I would not like to revisit that vivid memory of mine when Elizabeth declined my offer, and broke my heart into parts. Let us all just be thankful that she has accepted my proposal the second time through or we will all have been in distress, including myself especially. As I continued with your novel, I found Mr. Wickham’s and Elizabeth’s interactions to be particularly intriguing. Once my love Elizabeth has read my letter and discovered how much of an ill-mannered person Wickham was, she immediately shut down any long conversations that were to evoke and used her sense of sarcasm and humor to assure Wickham that their friendship no longer existed. I do not want to take up much of your time, so to conclude this I would like to say that I very much loved your novel, my beloved wife Elizabeth and I are delighted to be a part of your story, even if your depiction of me was not so pretty.
Sincerely,
Mr. Darcy
Dearest Lizzy,
ReplyDeleteHow have you been? I miss you so. Bingley and I are planning to visit at the beginning of this coming winter. I hope to see you then but the reason for my letter is related to what I have to say apon a novel I came across this summer “Pride and Prejudice” by a Lady named Jane Austen.
Oh, dearest sister to my surprise it was about you and Darcy. Beginning with the moving in of Bingley and ending with the marriage of you and Darcy. The novel was very agreeable and I do recommend this novel to you, I think you will love it. The meaning of the novel is very important, I love the quote “Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us.(13)” because it is important to understand your own pride and acknowledge it.
Ms. Austen is not honest when she describe me as I am not as handsome as she thinks. She is too kind. I learned a lot about myself . How Darcy thought I had not invited pleasure “by any participation of sentiment (134)”with Binley, I am very sorry to Bingley and Darcy that I did not show pleasure leading Darcy to believe I was not fond of Bingley which I very much was. I do think it a little rude of him to not tell Bingley of my stay in London but I understand it was of the best intentions for this friend’s well being.
I am quite distort with how Caroline treated you at your dinner at Pemberley. I knew of her distaste for me but I could never imagine her dislike of you, rudely calling “ your face too thin: your complexion had no brilliancy and your feature not at all handsome.(181). Dearest sister if I had know I would have used your advise not to blindly trust her. I am so very sorry. This novel really gave me a greater understanding of how you and Darcy fell in love. Oh Lizzy the way he helped poor Lydia after she ran off with Wickham, he loves you so much and I am so happy you found someone who would do anything in the world for you as I have with Bingley. When he said you were “one of the most handsomest women of his acquaintance.(181)” it made me blush and I so do agree with him on that. To me this novel show how we are all prejudice but your thoughts on a person can change for the worse or for the better. Once you got rid of your prejudices against Darcy, you say how kind of a person he was.
Dearest sister I am sorry to end this letter abruptly but today I am going back home to see mother and I shan't be late. With this letter I send this novel to you and after you read it please tell me your thoughts. I’d like to send it to Kitty, Mary and Lydia to as it is a very agreeable novel. I send all my love to you and Darcy.
Your's, &.
Jane Bingley
Dear Lizzy,
ReplyDeleteI thought this novel, “Pride and Prejudice”, much of a work of art. It was quite
introspective to see the different eyes and personnages during our year long period of hunting for a fair husband. Reading this piece in my study was quite the joy ride I do admit. The chemistry of your sisters was very well depicted, as was the relation between your mother and I. I laughed plenty when reading my own quite heckling comments towards her, like in the beginning of the story where I chirp her: “[Mrs. Bennet]: ‘You take delight in vexing me. You have no compassion on my poor nerves.’ [Mr. Bennet]: ‘You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They are my old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these twenty years at least.”(2) Our dynamic as a family was well shown in general. We all have our own traits that make us independent and interesting, but we all seem to have a common opinion on serious and larger picture subjects (not including Lydia). I thought the relationship between you and I was a quite heartwarming one; containing strong intersecting points of personality in points like the one where Mr. Collins had proposed to you. “An unhappy alternative is before you, Elizabeth. From this day you must be a stranger to one of your parents. Your mother will never see you again if you do not marry Mr. Collins, and I will never see you again if you do.”(77)
Moving away from our family, I thought it was rather galvanizing to see what was happening to you while I was not present. Continuity is always interesting because I can see what was happening to someone else while I am in another part of the country. An example can be found when I was in London looking for Lydia and you were at Derbyshire, Pemberley and Longbourne. The amount of stress you were going through in that period must have been that of how Mrs. Bennet feels when she misplaces her favorite brooch. Speaking of your stress, it was quite interesting to see how you dealt with the situation of your suitors. You did a very top shelf job of hiding it from your family that Mr. Darcy had proposed to you not only once. Whilst I can see why you so resented him in his premier attempt, I must say that if I knew this, I would have been much disappointed. From a sensible perspective I would have been much disappointed. But in hindsight, I can see that this sensible perspective actually appears more naive. I admit that I did not think you were capable enough of changing a man’s mind as you did, nor did I think that the “pleasing” nature of Darcy could be shifted as it was. In all the works of literature I have read in my study, I suppose there are subjects that cannot be taught in a book; to that I give you credit for being so independent.
While I can claim easily that I believe myself to be a man at the end of his education in my infinite wisdom, I will admit that this novel taught me much about myself. Seeing how I behave and how I reacted in certain scenarios had even taught me that I do not always pick the best reactions towards those around me. While I saw it always good to chat with your mother’s nerves and maybe deliver a backhanded comment; reading about these actions made me realize how inappropriate that can be. I will also take blame that my attitude made our families search for a husband harder than it had to be, and for that I apologize. It reflects quite poorly on my gallantry as a gentleman, although I would be lying if this meant my sarcasm would be coming to an end soon, for I propose that my tone will have a longer lifespan than Mr. Wickham’s tolerance for Lydia’s banter.
I will finish this letter with my congratulations, Lizzy. I could not be more proud of your decisions and choices, especially after reading this novel. I always knew you had a larger flare of independence and spunk that set you apart from your sisters. I know you will not brag of me saying this, because that is not in your character. I find solace in your contentedness of your partner; I know that what you have found is truly what you desired, and nothing could make me happier (besides the depth of his pockets). I hope your new home at Pemberley is everything you could hope for and more. Take care of your new husband, and don’t let that hag de Bourgh interfere with your peace. Give my son in law the best regards, and I hope to see you one of these weekends, I’m sure Kitty and Mary will be ecstatic that your mother will have someone else to beat.
DeleteYours Truly,
Mr. Bennet
My letter had too many characters to post by itself so I had to go in 2 posts
DeleteDearest Miss Jane Austen,
ReplyDeleteI find it very peculiar that our names are very alike, but I do say your novel about my family situation is indeed quite accurate. Although I have not read many novels and only scrawled and read letters, I’m very fortunate to say that I do take great pleasure in your novel Miss Austen. Oh, how Lizzy and I were so fond of the characters you’ve had made us into as handsome and intelligent woman we can be. I’m undoubtedly grateful for your interpretation. Indeed, there can be moments in the when Lizzy can act as prideful as her husband, Mr. Darcy, though she greatly denies the harshness of which her tongue had spoken to him. As I have read in the novel, Lizzy states to Mr. Darcy that “from the very beginning—from the first moment, [she] may almost say—of [her] acquaintance with [him], [his] manners, impressing [her] with the fullest belief of [his] arrogance, [his] conceit, and [his] selfish disdain of the feelings of others, were such as to form the groundwork of the disapprobation on which succeeding events have built so immovable a dislike; and [she] had not known [him] a month before felt that [he] were the last man in the world on whom [she] could ever be prevailed on to marry.” (131) I had become all aware of Lizzy’s disapproval of Mr. Darcy, but never like this had I ever thought she would speak so poorly of him. But I suppose she can be quite the handful, particularly to her dearly beloved. However, love does travail in impenetrable ways.
ReplyDeleteApart from these lovers, I’m also very aware of the misfortune that has been upon Lydia and Wickham since their marriage. Miss Austen, with so many connections to our family, I cannot bear to hear that many of your acquaintances know many of the misfortunes my family had to endure, due to the careless motives my youngest sister Lydia has made. I do recollect the letters that had been sent to the family that fortnight. The revelation of Lydia missing with Mr. Wickham had set us all into despair, my mother indeed was unable to comprehend and fainted before finishing the letters. When Lizzy returned home from Derbyshire out of harm's way, she was the most in rage I may have ever saw her to be. I had received another letter from Lydia from Colonel Foster and conveyed the letter to my sister Lizzy. These were contents of the letter. ``MY DEAR HARRIET, You will laugh when you know where I am gone, and I cannot help laughing myself at your surprise to-morrow morning, as soon as I am missed. I am going to Gretna Green, and if you cannot guess with who, I shall think you a simpleton, for there is but one man in the world I love, and he is an angel. I should never be happy without him, so think it no harm to be off. You need not send them word at Longbourn of my going, if you do not like it, for it will make the surprise the greater when I write to them and sign my name Lydia Wickham. What a good joke it will be! I can hardly write for laughing. Pray make my excuses to Pratt, for not keeping my engagement, and dancing with him to-night. Tell him I hope he will excuse me when he knows all and tell him I will dance with him at the next ball we meet, with great pleasure. I shall send for my clothes when i get to Longbourn; but I wish you would tell Sally to mend a great slit in my worked muslin gown, before they are packed up. Good bye. Give my love to Colonel Foster, I hope you will drink to our good journey. ‘Your affectionate friend, ‘LYDIA BENNET’.” (195) Lizzy and I are very open with one another and I do see the concern and guilt she has with her. The concern she obtains for Lydia, for the thoughtless actions my younger sister has made and the guilt of not expressing her judgement of Mr. Wickham towards the family has been very heart brokening for me to witness on Lizzy. I do wish to have comfort Lizzy through that time, but since growing up as sisters, I know very well that Lizzy can be strong than she appears to many. I am fortunate to what has become in the Bennett family and I assure you, Miss Austen, that I do not regret any misconduct my family has bestowed in Longbourn nor in any place in England. I hope to write to you soon and look forward to the many novels I will read from you.
Yours truly,
Jane Bennett
Dear Jane Austen,
ReplyDeleteI hope this letter finds you in good health as I have just had the displeasure of reading your book Pride and Prejudice. I have many a word to say about the book and how you portray me. I believe that I came across, for lack of a better term, an ass! While you may feel you gave an accurate representation of my life and personality, those that I call friend realize that my behaviours are completely just. It can be said that I always act in a utmost gentlemanly manner. And if this claim were to be false, I would not be the clergyman of the parish in the de Bourgh’s estate. Which as we all know, is a very high honor and Lady Catherine de Bourgh respects my opinion as we are very close friends.
First off, I want to acknowledge that the way you present Mr. Bingley’s ball as the talk of the town was precisely what it was. I knew the young Elizabeth was obviously nervous, so I asked her to be my partner for the first two dances as a polite gesture. But you depicted me as being oblivious to the fact that she wanted nothing to do with me. Which might I add, cannot possibly be true as she did accept my invitation to join her in a dance, which proves an indisputable affection for me. Ms. Austen, you also state that during the ball I was, “often moving wrong without being aware of it” (62). This could not be farther from the truth. It was I who danced without error while everyone else was moving wrong. Nonetheless, Elizabeth and I had a splendid time.
Later in your story, I proposed to Elizabeth in an orderly manner, “on the advice and recommendation of the very noble lady who I have the honour of calling patroness” (73). I knew very well that Elizabeth had no designs for me, for my inclination is to be very observant, yet it was distressing that she responded in a typical elegant female fashion. If I were her, I most certainly wouldn't have turned down such an exquisite offer. As it is her own pride and arrogance that got in the way of our marriage. For it would have established Mr. Bennet’s wealth going back into the family, although it is not a great sum. My intention was to do the right thing for the Bennet family because that is what a gentleman would do. I might also mention that it appears I made an intelligent choice not to marry Elizabeth because I would have had to cope with Mrs. Bennet, and everyone in the village of Meryton know no one wants to take on her nerves and non-stop gossip.
Now, as for the Lydia scandal, my thoughts are quite set in stone. In the letter I wrote to the Bennets, you, dear Jane, made me come across as insensitive and rude, which I am most certainly not. I am not ashamed of telling Mr. and Mrs. Bennet that they should have disowned Lydia for I can only tell the truth. Who in their right mind would elope with a man without a marriage proposal secured? The truth is, they should have raised her better and that is what they get for being negligent parents.
I do wish Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy the best of luck because they brought this family upon themselves, and it will be their undoing. To be in the presence of that delusional Mrs. Bennet always running around like a chicken with its head cut off would be unbearable for any sensible man. Furthermore, I have no doubt that they will regret their decision. For only a fool would want to marry into the Bennet family. Next time you wish to tell a tale, please avoid all the drivel.
Sincerely,
W. Collins
P.S. How dare you accuse me of never reading novels! I obviously read yours even though I would not consider it a novel worth a farthing.
It's a roast fest out here!
DeleteYou can say that again!
Delete
ReplyDeleteOh my Dear Mr. Bennet,
I have recently come upon the most shocking piece of literature! Though I rarely tend to look at such things, I made an exception when I discovered this novel, Pride and Prejudice. All the reading has put such a toll on my poor nerves that I beg you to hasten home to Longbourn. With so many daughters out it seems I have few who can comfort me.
It begins in our very own manor, describing our family in the most complementary way. I feel it gives Lizzie far too much credit when Jane has always been the most agreeable and lovely girl. And Lizzie who promised me she would never dance with Mr. Darcy! It’s all too much!
But oh Mr. Bennet! Do you remember when my brother and I arranged for Lydia’s marriage to Wickham? As it turns out it was Darcy the whole time! I never would have guessed it from such a horrid man. But Mr. Bennet! He is not a horrid man at all! His demeanor was so misleading. As it turns out, he seems to have saved us all.
Though I still have my doubts. I don’t believe I have seen that man smile since the day Lizzie married him. Not that it matters, as he does have over 10,000 a year. But Oh! It was so shocking! If only you could see the state I am in with my poor nerves. If I only knew at the time of all these things. This book has revealed so much! Especially on the topic of Mr. Wickham. What a wretched man. We can never allow this book to come near Lydia or anyone who speaks with her. She would be mortified! Oh Mr. Bennet! Did you know he never had any intention of marrying her? And to think all this time I believed he was in love with our daughter!
I am somewhat dissatisfied with myself, as I thought I was quite good at getting my daughters happily married. I have not heard from Lydia in over a month now and because of this book I am quite beside myself with worry. I do hope you will be back soon to read it. You have no idea what that man has done! Mr. Bennet it tortures me so to have you gone at a time like this! I am quite vexed!
Your most affectionate wife,
Mrs. Bennett
Get your marshmallows out cuz we're roasting by the fire!
DeleteBig time roasting!
DeleteMy Dearest Lizzy,
ReplyDeleteI have a few minutes, so I improve on this opportunity to write to you. I sincerely hope all is well in Pemberley. I recognize it was not yet been a fortnight since our last meeting together. However, there is not a moment that I don’t miss your humor and slight criticisms of me -of which I confess are in short supply in Netherfield where my husband wishes to flatter me at a every moment possible-. I could not love him more for it though. My new life with Bingley is going exceedingly well at present. Oh Lizzy! He is so amiable, and compassionate. I confess I do not presume there is any other man of whom would bring me so much happiness. We spend most of the day together, however, during the unfortunate hours when he is not in my presence I have begun to occupy myself with the books in his study. Though I do sincerely acknowledge his munificence in bestowing to me the perpetual use of his library, I confess I struggle to find equal contentment in the pages of books to you, dear Lizzy.
Now Lizzy, since writing the above I have come across an alluring book entitles Pride and Prejudice. Upon reading the first chapter I was immediately aghast to uncover that every character’s name from the novel is either one from within our family or a name of someone intimately acquainted with us. Furthermore, the plot of the story consists of events uncommonly similar to the events of the past year. I wonder if one of our friends is responsible? However though this author is responsible for writing our lives in her novel I do not believe her actions justify her as culpable of any moral crime. I would not be alarmed dear Lizzy for I know you too well to doubt your skepticism. I am sure that the writer of this novel means perfectly well in subjecting our family's story to speculation. A life story is an intimate one so I am sure if this author: Jane Austen was aware of our story’s prominence and delicacy she would not have attempted to commit it to paper. In fact, I dare say the events of this past year could serve as a model for future generations to live by while flourishing the necessary obstacles of life (especially events similar to ones we have experienced. However, perhaps Austen is not acquainted with us, or our story at all and this book is simply the product of a prodigious coincidence. Regardless, I am satisfied there is no cause to doubt the invulnerability of our personal affairs.
From [Jane]
Chloe Hanrahan
ReplyDeleteDear Ms. Jane Austen,
Ms. Austen, I want to thank you for following my family these past few years, but I as I look back on the product of your work I am not without remorse, Us having the good heart and allowing you to follow, tracking our every move I fear you’ve allowed some prejudice to influence your writing. I hoped to read a book that reflected my true cool, calm headed personna and yet I feel as though you have written me as a young immature maiden. One specific moment that I view truly to be out of my character is when I had heard of Lydia and Wickham's romance; you write me to be weak and fragile in that moment, you describe me as having my “knees tremb[ling] under” me and falling into Darcy’s arms. Although I do concede that my heart and mind were a flutter, I am a strong young women and having trembling knees, and needing to fall into Darcy, is not a sentiment I would like to associate with my name.
You have done a beautiful job of showing my family and truly capturing the tone of my father and mother. The way you have showcased their relationship is perfect to the truth, but to respect the memory of my father and mother I believe it to be too accurate for the liking of our family, to show the state of my parents marriage. If I may the showcasing of my father’s satirical nature leaves my family embarrassed in the company of society. The writing of my father’s teasing my mother about visiting Darcy at the beginning of your novel captures the very essences of my father’s gleeful nature, but I ask you again as this was a private moment of family must have you written it so true? You took his facetious words of refusing to meet Bingley, but truthfully in that he did caused such a raucous in my home. I had hoped for this sarcastic satire of my father to be omitted from your final work. My sisters have been written again too true to nature. I would’ve hope you’d have written them with a tone of sentiment, and less of one of truthfulness.. Mary would like to inquire as to why she has been written to sound dull and untalented, she’d like to remind you, Ms. Austen, that she is high educated and sings with the proper of a very fine lady. Mary asks for the words you said she had spoken “‘Pride… is a very common failing, I believe. By all that I have ever read, I am convinced that it is very common indeed; that human nature is particularly prone to it, and that there are very few of us who do not cherish a feeling of self-complacency on the score of some quality or other, real or imaginary. Vanity and pride are different things, though the words are often used synonymously. A person may be proud without being vain. Pride relates more to our opinion of ourselves, vanity to what we would have others think of us’”(12-13), why they are so confusing and if you had changed what she said.
My Darcy and I’s romance was lovely written.. But I would like to inquire as to why you showed no moments of tenderness before his declaration of love between us. Surely you know that we did have moments of laughter, as I truthfully was apprehensive to laugh with him before, there were moments between of us of peace and beauty, You have written our love story to have been all changed in the reading of one letter; it was the key of allowance to love and it were the article of truth that gave me willingness to love him, it did not make me love him. Truthfully i realized my feelings before alas i dared not speak of them without recognition of his goodly manner.
DeleteI fear you have written me as the only truly sane girl in your novel. You write my sisters as fluttering fairies with the willingness of eager school children and my friends as with only the wish of a high marriage. As it is true my sisters are young and excitable, my friend Charlotte has been written in a low manner, Charlotte is a kind girl with the most honest intentions in life, she looks at the world in a truly different manner than me, but with an outlook more common than mine. She married Mr. Collins in the correct manner of the world, but you have written her to marry Collins a manner of only looking for status in the world.
Your book was a joy to read, but I do believe it is too honest in the manner of my family. I would’ve preferred if you had the discretion to opite the moments of character failings among my family.
Yours truly,
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Bennet
Dear Ms. Austen,
ReplyDeleteI do not know who you are or how you know about my affairs with the Bennet family, but I do not like how I was portrayed in the novel. I was in fact not as rude and arrogant as you said I was. When I said “No arguments shall be wanting on my part that can alleviate so severe a misfortune—or that may comfort you, under a circumstance that must be of all others the most afflicting to a parent’s mind. The death of your daughter would have been a blessing in comparison of this.” I wanted to sympathise with them, not be condescending towards them. I will admit to having a connotation in my letter about Elizabeth making the wrong decision when she did not accept my proposal for marriage. That family deserved every bit of that letter yet you seemed to make me the one who was at fault. Furthermore when Elizabeth was staying at my estate, I was being polite by showing her around the house. I did not mean to show off, and instead wanted to make sure she could enjoy her stay as much as possible. Though it did correspond to how the events actually panned out, I did not enjoy the ending. I thought the Bennets, after Lydia’s mistake, were not fit to marry at all. They were especially not fit to marry such rich and prestigious men as Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy. When Lady Catherine de Bourgh encouraged Elizabeth not to marry Darcy she should have listened, for now she has not only brought down her name, but Darcy’s as well. I haven’t been getting any letters from Elizabeth recently, which is strange considering how we all know she secretly adored me.
Moving on past Elizabeth, you seemed to portray my wife, Charlotte, as unhappy in our relationship. It is of my utmost delight to inform you that her feelings for me are of quite the contrary. She could not possibly be in a happier relationship, for I have given her everything she could have ever wanted. Reading your book I did realize that Elizabeth might have made my wife jealous, for Elizabeth obviously loves me tremendously even if she won’t admit it. Perhaps that is why I haven’t received any letters from Elizabeth; my wife has burned them all out of jealousy!
When I read your book, I was surprised about how characters needed much more respect than you gave them. Lady Catherine de Bourgh is a prime example of this. She is more of a woman than you will ever be, and even though people disobeyed her and disrespected her, they will not be the ones remembered in the future. The most prestigious ones and no one of the likes of Elizabeth Bennet will be remembered.
With all due respect,
Mr. Collins
My Darcy and I’s romance was lovely written.. But I would like to inquire as to why you showed no moments of tenderness before his declaration of love between us. Surely you know that we did have moments of laughter, as I truthfully was apprehensive to laugh with him before, there were moments between of us of peace and beauty, You have written our love story to have been all changed in the reading of one letter; it was the key of allowance to love and it were the article of truth that gave me willingness to love him, it did not make me love him. Truthfully i realized my feelings before alas i dared not speak of them without recognition of his goodly manner.
ReplyDeleteI fear you have written me as the only truly sane girl in your novel. You write my sisters as fluttering fairies with the willingness of eager school children and my friends as with only the wish of a high marriage. As it is true my sisters are young and excitable, my friend Charlotte has been written in a low manner, Charlotte is a kind girl with the most honest intentions in life, she looks at the world in a truly different manner than me, but with an outlook more common than mine. She married Mr. Collins in the correct manner of the world, but you have written her to marry Collins a manner of only looking for status in the world.
Your book was a joy to read, but I do believe it is too honest in the manner of my family. I would’ve preferred if you had the discretion to opite the moments of character failings among my family.
Yours truly,
Elizabeth (Lizzy) Bennet
Ignore this! meant to put this with the rest of mine sorry! (Chloe)
DeleteDear Mr Bennet,
ReplyDeleteI write to you in short time to entertain you on a novel I stumbled upon in my studies in the fine library of the Hunsford Parsonage. An interesting novel with the title of Pride and Prejudice. Strangely, the book seemed as if it was written about the events that have taken place over the past year, and I thought you would be fascinated at the similarities. I highly advise you to take some time and read this novel because one of the characters reminds me very much of none other than yourself; a gentleman without a son to inherit his fortune. I would also like to take this time to ask about your amiable daughters Jane and Elizabeth, and of course your youngest Lydia. I am happy to hear that her unfortunate elopement has all been for the better, and would like to congratulate you on her engagement to the highly respectable Mr Wickham, as well as Jane’s engagement to Mr Bingley.
The novel was one of the finest romantic novels I have come across because it encapsulates an array of twists and turns in the ever-changing plot. I find the tone of this book to be sweet and humorous, with new details and information after each turn of the page. I enjoyed the book, however, I was quite offended by the insults made to myself and my humble patroness Lady Catherine de Bourg by your family and yourself. I did not intend on causing the Bennett family any harm, but these sly remarks are simply unsensible and rude. The novel in fact took place in Longbourn, and followed your family, especially your daughters, as they have had success finding love in matrimony. I do mean to say that I would never have expected love to flourish between Lizzy and my patroness’ nephew, Mr Darcy. I am aware that Lady Catherine did not long for the marriage and I would like to inform Elizabeth that her disrespectful words towards my ladyship have not been forgotten. I once more apologize, because it has caused me much uneasiness, for the circumstances of my entailment to the Longbourn estate.
Sincerely,
William Collins
Dear cousin Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteA most upsetting matter indeed has come to my attention, and I find it only just that I must share these troubles with you, cousin. While browsing the splendorous library of Rosings Park, a book, Pride and Prejudice, caught my attention. You can imagine my shock and distaste when I began to read and immediately saw that this certain book chronicles the recent events in the life of your family, and more startling still, you seem to be the protagonist! Imagine! Although, it is to my belief that you do not have to imagine this most unsettling story. It is not in my nature, as a clergyman to her Ladyship Catherine de Bourgh, to become quickly vexed at anyone, much less someone of my family. Yet, as much as it pains me, I can only assume you have been a consultant to Ms. Austen through her writing of this novel. You see, I have reached this conclusion because the plot follows your family, with you written most favorably of all. It is clear to me that your biased accounts of certain events were the only version Ms. Austen was aware of. And of course, had she any sensibility, this novel would be about Lady Catherine de Bourgh. I do not mean to offend, cousin, but the differences between the rather dull life your family lives and the grand, fascinating goings-on of her Ladyship are quite perceptible. Ms. Austen’s skill with a quill is astounding, yet the subject matter of this novel in particular is in dire need of improvement. I mean no insult, of course. Tell me cousin, would a member of the public enjoy reading of your sister Lydia’s most stressful elopement and marriage, or rather of Rosings Park and all it takes to maintain the grounds? An itinerary of my patroness’ day? An inventory of her cars? I believe the answer is clear. Regardless, Ms. Austen’s bias was most clear in the upsetting re-telling of my proposal to you. I am written to be a fool! A joke! Clearly you did not fully understand the benefits of our union, there is no other reason I can imagine for you to have rejected my hand, even as I very simply laid out my reasons for marriage, “My reasons for marrying are, first, that I think it a right thing for every clergyman in easy circumstances (like myself) to set the example of matrimony in his parish. Secondly, that I am convinced it will add very greatly to my happiness; and thirdly [...] that it is the particular advice and recommendation of the very noble lady whom I have the honor of calling patroness.” (73). Though those are very convincing and fair points, you seem to misunderstand. For you then say, “[...] I am perfectly serious in my refusal. --- You could not make me happy, and I am convinced that I am the last woman in the world who would make you so. --- Nay, were your friend Lady Catherine to know me, I am persuaded she would find me in every aspect ill qualified for the situation” (74). I must admit, it was impossible to know where to start in addressing your words on this subject when this incident first occurred. Though now, having time to think and see those words in print, I must ask: HOW DARE YOU QUESTION LADY CATHERINE?
I am, however, sympathetic, not everyone can recognize a good deal when they are offered one. I wish you and your sister Jane happiness in your new marriages. Charlotte sends her regards.
Most Sincerely,
W. Collins