Mrs. Gardiner's caution to Elizabeth was punctually and kindly given on the first favourable opportunity of speaking to her alone; after honestly telling her what she thought, she thus went on:
"You are too sensible a girl, Lizzy, to fall in love merely because you are warned against it; and, therefore, I am not afraid of speaking openly. Seriously, I would have you be on your guard. Do not involve yourself or endeavour to involve him in an affection which the want of fortune would make so very imprudent. I have nothing to say against him; he is a most interesting young man; and if he had the fortune he ought to have, I should think you could not do better. But as it is, you must not let your fancy run away with you. You have sense, and we all expect you to use it. Your father would depend on your resolution and good conduct, I am sure. You must not disappoint your father."
(Kristie Lee- Living in the Material World by George Harrison
Mrs.Gardiner's discussion of Wickham's wealth seemed to represent how most women during the Regency Fashion Era were always concerned with meeting a wealthy husband and living a comfortable life. The song "Living in the Material World" seemed to point out people's obsessions with materialistic factors, which fits into this scene.)
Seung Woo Eun
his article is similar to this situation because the article advises women to marry rich men. It is similar how Mr. Gardiner advises how Wickham lacks money and it would be wrong for her to marry Wickham because he is not economical stable. http://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=7757369&page=1
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/CollegeAndFamily/LoveAndMoney/do-smart-women-marry-money.aspx
(Amy Choi - This article relates to how Mr. Gardiner talks about how marrying Mr. Wickham would be imprudent because of Wickham's lack of fortune. The article talks about how money is very important and that marrying a young person without money is not a good thing. Therefore, this article portrays Mr. Gardiner's view on Wickham.)
No Money, No Love by Might Sparrow http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3KVc55XaCo
(Nana Park - Mrs. Gardiner talks about how Wickham lack fortune. In the lyrics, it says "She said poverty is a crime." Just like how Mrs. Gardiner is against marrying a guy with no fortune, the song also reflects that money is a very important factor in our life.)
(Nana Park - Mrs. Gardiner mentions about how Wickham is not suitable for Elizabeth because he lacks fortune. Just like the picture above many women during Regency period married men for their money. )
Marrying For Money by LAVINIA LEITCH http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F70B12FD355D13738DDDA80894DB405B848DF1D3
(Nana Park- The article shows how women regard money when they are in relationships. Just like how Mrs. Gardiner put a lot of emphasis on how Wickham is a poor man, many women are looking out for guys with money who can support their lives.)
(Jenny Lee - This comic shows the life of Wickhem, only wanting to marry ladies with fortune. This comic is depicting two men trying to get the love of a rich widow because they know they would be getting such big amount of money when marrying them. One of the men looks like it is Wickhem himself just because that is what he is doing.
(Rachel Choi http://www.troyrecord.com/articles/2010/09/29/opinion/doc4ca228bf3b072215009200.txt
The article is about how to get less stress in the workplace for the workers. Gray lists out six tips to become a happier worker. However, at the end, he mentions "If none this works for you then I leave you with my final solution. Just two words — marry money." This shows that men marry women for money when things do not work out well in life. Wickham does not have the most successful life in the book because he has low reputation and no money. This explains why he is so into girls with money. )
Sally Park
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb0Mu5eztBg - Gold Digger by Glee Cast This seems like the perfect description of Mr. Wickham. Although the women of this society are more likely to be classified as 'gold diggers' these day, Wickham is the prototype of a gold digger moving from one woman to the next. It seems as his sole purpose of having a social life is to spread rumors about Mr. Darcy to continue to receive money from him and the inheritance money of the women that he meets.
"My dear aunt, this is being serious indeed."
"Yes, and I hope to engage you to be serious likewise."
"Well, then, you need not be under any alarm. I will take care of myself, and of Mr. Wickham too. He shall not be in love with me, if I can prevent it."
"Elizabeth, you are not serious now."
"I beg your pardon, I will try again. At present I am not in love with Mr. Wickham; no, I certainly am not. But he is, beyond all comparison, the most agreeable man I ever saw—and if he becomes really attached to me—I believe it will be better that he should not. I see the imprudence of it. Oh! that abominable Mr. Darcy! My father's opinion of me does me the greatest honour, and I should be miserable to forfeit it. My father, however, is partial to Mr. Wickham. In short, my dear aunt, I should be very sorry to be the means of making any of you unhappy; but since we see every day that where there is affection, young people are seldom withheld by immediate want of fortune from entering into engagements with each other, how can I promise to be wiser than so many of my fellow-creatures if I am tempted, or how am I even to know that it would be wisdom to resist? All that I can promise you, therefore, is not to be in a hurry. I will not be in a hurry to believe myself his first object. When I am in company with him, I will not be wishing. In short, I will do my best."
"Perhaps it will be as well if you discourage his coming here so very often. At least, you should not remind your mother of inviting him." http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1077/is_6_60/ai_n13503193/?tag=content;col1
(Sam Lee - As a young woman, Elizabeth is perhaps not mature enough to find a suitable match for herself. The article suggests some ways to choose a faithful man. Just like in reality many people tend to marry for money, and fame, but one should be sure if he/she is the "right" one.)
"As I did the other day," said Elizabeth with a conscious smile: "very true, it will be wise in me to refrain from that. But do not imagine that he is always here so often. It is on your account that he has been so frequently invited this week. You know my mother's ideas as to the necessity of constant company for her friends. But really, and upon my honour, I will try to do what I think to be the wisest; and now I hope you are satisfied."
Her aunt assured her that she was, and Elizabeth having thanked her for the kindness of her hints, they parted; a wonderful instance of advice being given on such a point, without being resented. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JLztfosqik
(Sam Lee - In this specific section of the book, Mrs. Gardiner suggests that Mr. Wickham was not a good match for Elizabeth. However Elizabeth at the time thought that Mr.Wickham was the most agreeable man and she probably think that it is hard to find a better man. Not to mention that she was suggested to marry and to find a better man than Mr. Wickham.)
Mr. Collins returned into Hertfordshire soon after it had been quitted by the Gardiners and Jane; but as he took up his abode with the Lucases, his arrival was no great inconvenience to Mrs. Bennet. His marriage was now fast approaching, and she was at length so far resigned as to think it inevitable, and even repeatedly to say, in an ill-natured tone, that she "wished they might be happy." Thursday was to be the wedding day, and on Wednesday Miss Lucas paid her farewell visit; and when she rose to take leave, Elizabeth, ashamed of her mother's ungracious and reluctant good wishes, and sincerely affected herself, accompanied her out of the room. As they went downstairs together, Charlotte said:
"I shall depend on hearing from you very often, Eliza."
"That you certainly shall."
"And I have another favour to ask you. Will you come and see me?"
"We shall often meet, I hope, in Hertfordshire."
"I am not likely to leave Kent for some time. Promise me, therefore, to come to Hunsford."
Elizabeth could not refuse, though she foresaw little pleasure in the visit.
"My father and Maria are coming to me in March," added Charlotte, "and I hope you will consent to be of the party. Indeed, Eliza, you will be as welcome as either of them."
The wedding took place; the bride and bridegroom set off for Kent from the church door, and everybody had as much to say, or to hear, on the subject as usual. Elizabeth soon heard from her friend; and their correspondence was as regular and frequent as it had ever been; that it should be equally unreserved was impossible. Elizabeth could never address her without feeling that all the comfort of intimacy was over, and though determined not to slacken as a correspondent, it was for the sake of what had been, rather than what was. Charlotte's first letters were received with a good deal of eagerness; there could not but be curiosity to know how she would speak of her new home, how she would like Lady Catherine, and how happy she would dare pronounce herself to be; though, when the letters were read, Elizabeth felt that Charlotte expressed herself on every point exactly as she might have foreseen. She wrote cheerfully, seemed surrounded with comforts, and mentioned nothing which she could not praise. The house, furniture, neighbourhood, and roads, were all to her taste, and Lady Catherine's behaviour was most friendly and obliging. It was Mr. Collins's picture of Hunsford and Rosings rationally softened; and Elizabeth perceived that she must wait for her own visit there to know the rest.
Jane had already written a few lines to her sister to announce their safe arrival in London; and when she wrote again, Elizabeth hoped it would be in her power to say something of the Bingleys.
Her impatience for this second letter was as well rewarded as impatience generally is. Jane had been a week in town without either seeing or hearing from Caroline. She accounted for it, however, by supposing that her last letter to her friend from Longbourn had by some accident been lost.
"My aunt," she continued, "is going to-morrow into that part of the town, and I shall take the opportunity of calling in Grosvenor Street."
She wrote again when the visit was paid, and she had seen Miss Bingley. "I did not think Caroline in spirits," were her words, "but she was very glad to see me, and reproached me for giving her no notice of my coming to London. I was right, therefore, my last letter had never reached her. I inquired after their brother, of course. He was well, but so much engaged with Mr. Darcy that they scarcely ever saw him. I found that Miss Darcy was expected to dinner. I wish I could see her. My visit was not long, as Caroline and Mrs. Hurst were going out. I dare say I shall see them soon here."
Elizabeth shook her head over this letter. It convinced her that accident only could discover to Mr. Bingley her sister's being in town.
Four weeks passed away, and Jane saw nothing of him. She endeavoured to persuade herself that she did not regret it; but she could no longer be blind to Miss Bingley's inattention. After waiting at home every morning for a fortnight, and inventing every evening a fresh excuse for her, the visitor did at last appear; but the shortness of her stay, and yet more, the alteration of her manner would allow Jane to deceive herself no longer. The letter which she wrote on this occasion to her sister will prove what she felt.
[Alice Ahn- Jane is rejected by Bingley's family and she feels great sadness and hopelessness but does not reveal her deep sorrow to Elizabeth. Instead, she pretends that she is fine and that everything will turnout positively. This picture, a smiley face that is crying, reflects Jane's emotion about Bingley by the smile she puts on her face yet the tear drop on her eyes.]
"My dearest Lizzy will, I am sure, be incapable of triumphing in her better judgement, at my expense, when I confess myself to have been entirely deceived in Miss Bingley's regard for me. But, my dear sister, though the event has proved you right, do not think me obstinate if I still assert that, considering what her behaviour was, my confidence was as natural as your suspicion. I do not at all comprehend her reason for wishing to be intimate with me; but if the same circumstances were to happen again, I am sure I should be deceived again. Caroline did not return my visit till yesterday; and not a note, not a line, did I receive in the meantime. When she did come, it was very evident that she had no pleasure in it; she made a slight, formal apology, for not calling before, said not a word of wishing to see me again, and was in every respect so altered a creature, that when she went away I was perfectly resolved to continue the acquaintance no longer. I pity, though I cannot help blaming her. She was very wrong in singling me out as she did; I can safely say that every advance to intimacy began on her side. But I pity her, because she must feel that she has been acting wrong, and because I am very sure that anxiety for her brother is the cause of it. I need not explain myself farther; and though we know this anxiety to be quite needless, yet if she feels it, it will easily account for her behaviour to me; and so deservedly dear as he is to his sister, whatever anxiety she must feel on his behalf is natural and amiable. I cannot but wonder, however, at her having any such fears now, because, if he had at all cared about me, we must have met, long ago. He knows of my being in town, I am certain, from something she said herself; and yet it would seem, by her manner of talking, as if she wanted to persuade herself that he is really partial to Miss Darcy. I cannot understand it. If I were not afraid of judging harshly, I should be almost tempted to say that there is a strong appearance of duplicity in all this. But I will endeavour to banish every painful thought, and think only of what will make me happy—your affection, and the invariable kindness of my dear uncle and aunt. Let me hear from you very soon. Miss Bingley said something of his never returning to Netherfield again, of giving up the house, but not with any certainty. We had better not mention it. I am extremely glad that you have such pleasant accounts from our friends at Hunsford. Pray go to see them, with Sir William and Maria. I am sure you will be very comfortable there.—Yours, etc."
This letter gave Elizabeth some pain; but her spirits returned as she considered that Jane would no longer be duped, by the sister at least. All expectation from the brother was now absolutely over. She would not even wish for a renewal of his attentions. His character sunk on every review of it; and as a punishment for him, as well as a possible advantage to Jane, she seriously hoped he might really soon marry Mr. Darcy's sister, as by Wickham's account, she would make him abundantly regret what he had thrown away.
(Despite The Bingley family's cold attitude, Jane does not mourn or is not overemotional about it. Jane actually seems to handle the situation well, and as mentioned in the book, wishes that Mr. Bingley's marriage with Georgiana works out well. Jane's ability to overcome such hardship, reminded me of the song. The idea of "big girls don't cry", signified or symbolized Jane's effort to overcome her separation with Bingley in a very mature and grown up like manner.)
Mrs. Gardiner about this time reminded Elizabeth of her promise concerning that gentleman, and required information; and Elizabeth had such to send as might rather give contentment to her aunt than to herself. His apparent partiality had subsided, his attentions were over, he was the admirer of some one else. Elizabeth was watchful enough to see it all, but she could see it and write of it without material pain. Her heart had been but slightly touched, and her vanity was satisfied with believing that she would have been his only choice, had fortune permitted it. The sudden acquisition of ten thousand pounds was the most remarkable charm of the young lady to whom he was now rendering himself agreeable; but Elizabeth, less clear-sighted perhaps in this case than in Charlotte's, did not quarrel with him for his wish of independence. Nothing, on the contrary, could be more natural; and while able to suppose that it cost him a few struggles to relinquish her, she was ready to allow it a wise and desirable measure for both, and could very sincerely wish him happy.
Lauren Kang- This painting piece of Roy Lichtenstein really matched the image of what Wickham was like as a character. Being attracted by the amount of money a certain girl has, Wickham seems to be a very cut-throat decision maker. He doesn't seem to look back on his choices and does seem to show much sign of sympathy and care towards the women he was once involved with. And the line "I'm fed up with your kinds!", seemed to match his tendency to characterize women to different groups based on wealth and beauty. Although he did not directly mention these kinds of lines towards Elizabeth, the Image of this overall painting seemed to match the situation.)
All this was acknowledged to Mrs. Gardiner; and after relating the circumstances, she thus went on: "I am now convinced, my dear aunt, that I have never been much in love; for had I really experienced that pure and elevating passion, I should at present detest his very name, and wish him all manner of evil. But my feelings are not only cordial towards him; they are even impartial towards Miss King. I cannot find out that I hate her at all, or that I am in the least unwilling to think her a very good sort of girl. There can be no love in all this. My watchfulness has been effectual; and though I certainly should be a more interesting object to all my acquaintances were I distractedly in love with him, I cannot say that I regret my comparative insignificance. Importance may sometimes be purchased too dearly.
(Lydia Ahn-This song explains how the man is over the woman, and doesn't think about her anymore. In the same way, Elizabeth was over Wickham once he decided to marry Ms. King for wealth. However, oddly enough, she didn't develop hatred for Ms. King and wasn't that upset over it. She thus concludes that she never loved Wickham in the first place, and that she doesn't believe this matter to be important. This shows that Elizabeth is clearly over Wickham and moves on with her life. The day that she thought would be extremely difficult after hearing about Wickham and Ms. King's marriage was actually not that bad. Like the song says as well, she thought it would be extremely painful but actually Elizabeth got over it pretty quickly and easily. )
(Joodi Son- The man is Wickham and the money, the bills, are Miss King. Wickham is a fickle man who just goes from woman to woman when a richer person appears. )
Kitty and Lydia take his defection much more to heart than I do. They are young in the ways of the world, and not yet open to the mortifying conviction that handsome young men must have something to live on as well as the plain."
Da Eun Lee
("I Never Loved You Anyway" by The Corrs well express the way Elizabeth feels while she is writing back to Mrs. Gardiner about Wickham. The fact that he became interested in Miss King does bother her, but she does not feel too terrible about it, which makes her conclude that she was never really in love with him. The lyrics of this song are "I never really loved you anyway, I'm so glad you're moving away," which is exactly the way Elizabeth feels towards Wickham. There is also a lyric that says "Does she know you're not a spender?" which is quick interesting, as Wickham is obsessed with gaining money through attracting young women.)
(Paul Choi -Marriage, Money, and Morality: Should Marriage be Political?
Should marriage be political?
This is where Elizabeth writes about Wickham's transition of interests towards Ms.King for his wealth. His pattern of behavior seems to display how he's trying to use marriage as a political leverage to bring his economic and social stance up. This article talks about the morality of doing doing such a thing, and reminded me immediately of Wickham. )
Yunjin Kim
Friends - Whodini
Just as Jane realizes Miss Bingley’s true nature and purpose of her actions, she finally decides that she is not the person she thought of. She also notices that Miss Bingley is not a true friend, by continuing to make excuses not to visit Jane and only breaking Jane’s heart further on by always mentioning Mr.Bingley’s Mr.Darcy’s relationship. Nevertheless, the song fits into the category of the fake friendship Miss Bingley had illustrated to Jane.
Chapter 26
Mrs. Gardiner's caution to Elizabeth was punctually and kindly given on the first favourable opportunity of speaking to her alone; after honestly telling her what she thought, she thus went on:"You are too sensible a girl, Lizzy, to fall in love merely because you are warned against it; and, therefore, I am not afraid of speaking openly. Seriously, I would have you be on your guard. Do not involve yourself or endeavour to involve him in an affection which the want of fortune would make so very imprudent. I have nothing to say against him; he is a most interesting young man; and if he had the fortune he ought to have, I should think you could not do better. But as it is, you must not let your fancy run away with you. You have sense, and we all expect you to use it. Your father would depend on your resolution and good conduct, I am sure. You must not disappoint your father."
(Kristie Lee- Living in the Material World by George Harrison
Mrs.Gardiner's discussion of Wickham's wealth seemed to represent how most women during the Regency Fashion Era were always concerned with meeting a wealthy husband and living a comfortable life. The song "Living in the Material World" seemed to point out people's obsessions with materialistic factors, which fits into this scene.)
Seung Woo Eun
his article is similar to this situation because the article advises women to marry rich men. It is similar how Mr. Gardiner advises how Wickham lacks money and it would be wrong for her to marry Wickham because he is not economical stable.
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=7757369&page=1
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/CollegeAndFamily/LoveAndMoney/do-smart-women-marry-money.aspx
(Amy Choi - This article relates to how Mr. Gardiner talks about how marrying Mr. Wickham would be imprudent because of Wickham's lack of fortune. The article talks about how money is very important and that marrying a young person without money is not a good thing. Therefore, this article portrays Mr. Gardiner's view on Wickham.)
No Money, No Love by Might Sparrow
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3KVc55XaCo
(Nana Park - Mrs. Gardiner talks about how Wickham lack fortune. In the lyrics, it says "She said poverty is a crime." Just like how Mrs. Gardiner is against marrying a guy with no fortune, the song also reflects that money is a very important factor in our life.)
(Nana Park - Mrs. Gardiner mentions about how Wickham is not suitable for Elizabeth because he lacks fortune. Just like the picture above many women during Regency period married men for their money. )
Marrying For Money by LAVINIA LEITCH http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F70B12FD355D13738DDDA80894DB405B848DF1D3
(Nana Park- The article shows how women regard money when they are in relationships. Just like how Mrs. Gardiner put a lot of emphasis on how Wickham is a poor man, many women are looking out for guys with money who can support their lives.)
(Jenny Lee - This comic shows the life of Wickhem, only wanting to marry ladies with fortune. This comic is depicting two men trying to get the love of a rich widow because they know they would be getting such big amount of money when marrying them. One of the men looks like it is Wickhem himself just because that is what he is doing.
(Rachel Choi
http://www.troyrecord.com/articles/2010/09/29/opinion/doc4ca228bf3b072215009200.txt
The article is about how to get less stress in the workplace for the workers. Gray lists out six tips to become a happier worker. However, at the end, he mentions "If none this works for you then I leave you with my final solution. Just two words — marry money." This shows that men marry women for money when things do not work out well in life. Wickham does not have the most successful life in the book because he has low reputation and no money. This explains why he is so into girls with money. )
Sally Park
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb0Mu5eztBg
- Gold Digger by Glee Cast
This seems like the perfect description of Mr. Wickham. Although the women of this society are more likely to be classified as 'gold diggers' these day, Wickham is the prototype of a gold digger moving from one woman to the next. It seems as his sole purpose of having a social life is to spread rumors about Mr. Darcy to continue to receive money from him and the inheritance money of the women that he meets.
"My dear aunt, this is being serious indeed."
"Yes, and I hope to engage you to be serious likewise."
"Well, then, you need not be under any alarm. I will take care of myself, and of Mr. Wickham too. He shall not be in love with me, if I can prevent it."
"Elizabeth, you are not serious now."
"I beg your pardon, I will try again. At present I am not in love with Mr. Wickham; no, I certainly am not. But he is, beyond all comparison, the most agreeable man I ever saw—and if he becomes really attached to me—I believe it will be better that he should not. I see the imprudence of it. Oh! that abominable Mr. Darcy! My father's opinion of me does me the greatest honour, and I should be miserable to forfeit it. My father, however, is partial to Mr. Wickham. In short, my dear aunt, I should be very sorry to be the means of making any of you unhappy; but since we see every day that where there is affection, young people are seldom withheld by immediate want of fortune from entering into engagements with each other, how can I promise to be wiser than so many of my fellow-creatures if I am tempted, or how am I even to know that it would be wisdom to resist? All that I can promise you, therefore, is not to be in a hurry. I will not be in a hurry to believe myself his first object. When I am in company with him, I will not be wishing. In short, I will do my best."
"Perhaps it will be as well if you discourage his coming here so very often. At least, you should not remind your mother of inviting him."
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1077/is_6_60/ai_n13503193/?tag=content;col1
(Sam Lee - As a young woman, Elizabeth is perhaps not mature enough to find a suitable match for herself. The article suggests some ways to choose a faithful man. Just like in reality many people tend to marry for money, and fame, but one should be sure if he/she is the "right" one.)
"As I did the other day," said Elizabeth with a conscious smile: "very true, it will be wise in me to refrain from that. But do not imagine that he is always here so often. It is on your account that he has been so frequently invited this week. You know my mother's ideas as to the necessity of constant company for her friends. But really, and upon my honour, I will try to do what I think to be the wisest; and now I hope you are satisfied."
Her aunt assured her that she was, and Elizabeth having thanked her for the kindness of her hints, they parted; a wonderful instance of advice being given on such a point, without being resented.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JLztfosqik
(Sam Lee - In this specific section of the book, Mrs. Gardiner suggests that Mr. Wickham was not a good match for Elizabeth. However Elizabeth at the time thought that Mr.Wickham was the most agreeable man and she probably think that it is hard to find a better man. Not to mention that she was suggested to marry and to find a better man than Mr. Wickham.)
Mr. Collins returned into Hertfordshire soon after it had been quitted by the Gardiners and Jane; but as he took up his abode with the Lucases, his arrival was no great inconvenience to Mrs. Bennet. His marriage was now fast approaching, and she was at length so far resigned as to think it inevitable, and even repeatedly to say, in an ill-natured tone, that she "wished they might be happy." Thursday was to be the wedding day, and on Wednesday Miss Lucas paid her farewell visit; and when she rose to take leave, Elizabeth, ashamed of her mother's ungracious and reluctant good wishes, and sincerely affected herself, accompanied her out of the room. As they went downstairs together, Charlotte said:
"I shall depend on hearing from you very often, Eliza."
"That you certainly shall."
"And I have another favour to ask you. Will you come and see me?"
Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEihOBovURo&feature=PlayList&p=43E68A315D0F5A62&index=0&playnext=1
(Jisoo Jean: This song talks about someone who asks his lover to come to him. It is similar in that in this situation, Charlotte is asking Lizzy to visit her, since she will miss her when she lives with Mr. Collins. The lyrics, "you can come see me" reflect Charlotte's wishes.)
"We shall often meet, I hope, in Hertfordshire."
"I am not likely to leave Kent for some time. Promise me, therefore, to come to Hunsford."
Elizabeth could not refuse, though she foresaw little pleasure in the visit.
"My father and Maria are coming to me in March," added Charlotte, "and I hope you will consent to be of the party. Indeed, Eliza, you will be as welcome as either of them."
The wedding took place; the bride and bridegroom set off for Kent from the church door, and everybody had as much to say, or to hear, on the subject as usual. Elizabeth soon heard from her friend; and their correspondence was as regular and frequent as it had ever been; that it should be equally unreserved was impossible. Elizabeth could never address her without feeling that all the comfort of intimacy was over, and though determined not to slacken as a correspondent, it was for the sake of what had been, rather than what was. Charlotte's first letters were received with a good deal of eagerness; there could not but be curiosity to know how she would speak of her new home, how she would like Lady Catherine, and how happy she would dare pronounce herself to be; though, when the letters were read, Elizabeth felt that Charlotte expressed herself on every point exactly as she might have foreseen. She wrote cheerfully, seemed surrounded with comforts, and mentioned nothing which she could not praise. The house, furniture, neighbourhood, and roads, were all to her taste, and Lady Catherine's behaviour was most friendly and obliging. It was Mr. Collins's picture of Hunsford and Rosings rationally softened; and Elizabeth perceived that she must wait for her own visit there to know the rest.
Jane had already written a few lines to her sister to announce their safe arrival in London; and when she wrote again, Elizabeth hoped it would be in her power to say something of the Bingleys.
Her impatience for this second letter was as well rewarded as impatience generally is. Jane had been a week in town without either seeing or hearing from Caroline. She accounted for it, however, by supposing that her last letter to her friend from Longbourn had by some accident been lost.
"My aunt," she continued, "is going to-morrow into that part of the town, and I shall take the opportunity of calling in Grosvenor Street."
She wrote again when the visit was paid, and she had seen Miss Bingley. "I did not think Caroline in spirits," were her words, "but she was very glad to see me, and reproached me for giving her no notice of my coming to London. I was right, therefore, my last letter had never reached her. I inquired after their brother, of course. He was well, but so much engaged with Mr. Darcy that they scarcely ever saw him. I found that Miss Darcy was expected to dinner. I wish I could see her. My visit was not long, as Caroline and Mrs. Hurst were going out. I dare say I shall see them soon here."
Elizabeth shook her head over this letter. It convinced her that accident only could discover to Mr. Bingley her sister's being in town.
Four weeks passed away, and Jane saw nothing of him. She endeavoured to persuade herself that she did not regret it; but she could no longer be blind to Miss Bingley's inattention. After waiting at home every morning for a fortnight, and inventing every evening a fresh excuse for her, the visitor did at last appear; but the shortness of her stay, and yet more, the alteration of her manner would allow Jane to deceive herself no longer. The letter which she wrote on this occasion to her sister will prove what she felt.
[Alice Ahn- Jane is rejected by Bingley's family and she feels great sadness and hopelessness but does not reveal her deep sorrow to Elizabeth. Instead, she pretends that she is fine and that everything will turnout positively. This picture, a smiley face that is crying, reflects Jane's emotion about Bingley by the smile she puts on her face yet the tear drop on her eyes.]
"My dearest Lizzy will, I am sure, be incapable of triumphing in her better judgement, at my expense, when I confess myself to have been entirely deceived in Miss Bingley's regard for me. But, my dear sister, though the event has proved you right, do not think me obstinate if I still assert that, considering what her behaviour was, my confidence was as natural as your suspicion. I do not at all comprehend her reason for wishing to be intimate with me; but if the same circumstances were to happen again, I am sure I should be deceived again. Caroline did not return my visit till yesterday; and not a note, not a line, did I receive in the meantime. When she did come, it was very evident that she had no pleasure in it; she made a slight, formal apology, for not calling before, said not a word of wishing to see me again, and was in every respect so altered a creature, that when she went away I was perfectly resolved to continue the acquaintance no longer. I pity, though I cannot help blaming her. She was very wrong in singling me out as she did; I can safely say that every advance to intimacy began on her side. But I pity her, because she must feel that she has been acting wrong, and because I am very sure that anxiety for her brother is the cause of it. I need not explain myself farther; and though we know this anxiety to be quite needless, yet if she feels it, it will easily account for her behaviour to me; and so deservedly dear as he is to his sister, whatever anxiety she must feel on his behalf is natural and amiable. I cannot but wonder, however, at her having any such fears now, because, if he had at all cared about me, we must have met, long ago. He knows of my being in town, I am certain, from something she said herself; and yet it would seem, by her manner of talking, as if she wanted to persuade herself that he is really partial to Miss Darcy. I cannot understand it. If I were not afraid of judging harshly, I should be almost tempted to say that there is a strong appearance of duplicity in all this. But I will endeavour to banish every painful thought, and think only of what will make me happy—your affection, and the invariable kindness of my dear uncle and aunt. Let me hear from you very soon. Miss Bingley said something of his never returning to Netherfield again, of giving up the house, but not with any certainty. We had better not mention it. I am extremely glad that you have such pleasant accounts from our friends at Hunsford. Pray go to see them, with Sir William and Maria. I am sure you will be very comfortable there.—Yours, etc."
This letter gave Elizabeth some pain; but her spirits returned as she considered that Jane would no longer be duped, by the sister at least. All expectation from the brother was now absolutely over. She would not even wish for a renewal of his attentions. His character sunk on every review of it; and as a punishment for him, as well as a possible advantage to Jane, she seriously hoped he might really soon marry Mr. Darcy's sister, as by Wickham's account, she would make him abundantly regret what he had thrown away.
Lauren Kang
Download this Mp3 @ Booster MP3
(Despite The Bingley family's cold attitude, Jane does not mourn or is not overemotional about it. Jane actually seems to handle the situation well, and as mentioned in the book, wishes that Mr. Bingley's marriage with Georgiana works out well. Jane's ability to overcome such hardship, reminded me of the song. The idea of "big girls don't cry", signified or symbolized Jane's effort to overcome her separation with Bingley in a very mature and grown up like manner.)
Mrs. Gardiner about this time reminded Elizabeth of her promise concerning that gentleman, and required information; and Elizabeth had such to send as might rather give contentment to her aunt than to herself. His apparent partiality had subsided, his attentions were over, he was the admirer of some one else. Elizabeth was watchful enough to see it all, but she could see it and write of it without material pain. Her heart had been but slightly touched, and her vanity was satisfied with believing that she would have been his only choice, had fortune permitted it. The sudden acquisition of ten thousand pounds was the most remarkable charm of the young lady to whom he was now rendering himself agreeable; but Elizabeth, less clear-sighted perhaps in this case than in Charlotte's, did not quarrel with him for his wish of independence. Nothing, on the contrary, could be more natural; and while able to suppose that it cost him a few struggles to relinquish her, she was ready to allow it a wise and desirable measure for both, and could very sincerely wish him happy.
Lauren Kang- This painting piece of Roy Lichtenstein really matched the image of what Wickham was like as a character. Being attracted by the amount of money a certain girl has, Wickham seems to be a very cut-throat decision maker. He doesn't seem to look back on his choices and does seem to show much sign of sympathy and care towards the women he was once involved with. And the line "I'm fed up with your kinds!", seemed to match his tendency to characterize women to different groups based on wealth and beauty. Although he did not directly mention these kinds of lines towards Elizabeth, the Image of this overall painting seemed to match the situation.)
All this was acknowledged to Mrs. Gardiner; and after relating the circumstances, she thus went on: "I am now convinced, my dear aunt, that I have never been much in love; for had I really experienced that pure and elevating passion, I should at present detest his very name, and wish him all manner of evil. But my feelings are not only cordial towards him; they are even impartial towards Miss King. I cannot find out that I hate her at all, or that I am in the least unwilling to think her a very good sort of girl. There can be no love in all this. My watchfulness has been effectual; and though I certainly should be a more interesting object to all my acquaintances were I distractedly in love with him, I cannot say that I regret my comparative insignificance. Importance may sometimes be purchased too dearly.
(Lydia Ahn-This song explains how the man is over the woman, and doesn't think about her anymore. In the same way, Elizabeth was over Wickham once he decided to marry Ms. King for wealth. However, oddly enough, she didn't develop hatred for Ms. King and wasn't that upset over it. She thus concludes that she never loved Wickham in the first place, and that she doesn't believe this matter to be important. This shows that Elizabeth is clearly over Wickham and moves on with her life. The day that she thought would be extremely difficult after hearing about Wickham and Ms. King's marriage was actually not that bad. Like the song says as well, she thought it would be extremely painful but actually Elizabeth got over it pretty quickly and easily. )
(Joodi Son- The man is Wickham and the money, the bills, are Miss King. Wickham is a fickle man who just goes from woman to woman when a richer person appears. )
Kitty and Lydia take his defection much more to heart than I do. They are young in the ways of the world, and not yet open to the mortifying conviction that handsome young men must have something to live on as well as the plain."
Da Eun Lee
("I Never Loved You Anyway" by The Corrs well express the way Elizabeth feels while she is writing back to Mrs. Gardiner about Wickham. The fact that he became interested in Miss King does bother her, but she does not feel too terrible about it, which makes her conclude that she was never really in love with him. The lyrics of this song are "I never really loved you anyway, I'm so glad you're moving away," which is exactly the way Elizabeth feels towards Wickham. There is also a lyric that says "Does she know you're not a spender?" which is quick interesting, as Wickham is obsessed with gaining money through attracting young women.)
(Paul Choi -Marriage, Money, and Morality: Should Marriage be Political?
Should marriage be political?
This is where Elizabeth writes about Wickham's transition of interests towards Ms.King for his wealth. His pattern of behavior seems to display how he's trying to use marriage as a political leverage to bring his economic and social stance up. This article talks about the morality of doing doing such a thing, and reminded me immediately of Wickham. )
Yunjin Kim
Friends - Whodini
Just as Jane realizes Miss Bingley’s true nature and purpose of her actions, she finally decides that she is not the person she thought of. She also notices that Miss Bingley is not a true friend, by continuing to make excuses not to visit Jane and only breaking Jane’s heart further on by always mentioning Mr.Bingley’s Mr.Darcy’s relationship. Nevertheless, the song fits into the category of the fake friendship Miss Bingley had illustrated to Jane.
Chapter 27