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Gargi Hazarika

EGE23015

Fiction I (Early to Jane Austen) (EG 454)

Dr. Pallavi Jha

22 November, 2023

Twirling With The Setting In Pride and Prejudice

M.H. Abrams and Geoffrey Galt Harpham defines the “setting” of a narrative or dramatic work

as ‘the general locale, historical time and social circumstances in which action occurs’ and that

‘the setting of a single episode or a scene within the work is the particular physical location in

which it takes place.’ (A brams, 362)

Jane Austen's selection of settings can be deemed rather repetitive. Her characters often find

themselves in comparable types of environments, which may not come as a surprise. However,

this does not imply that the setting is less significance within these narratives. In Jane Austen’s

novels, the setting plays a significant role in characterizing the characters. The estates in Pride

and Prejudice namely Longbourn, Netherfield , Meryton, Pemberley and Rosings acts as a

representative of their inhabitants. The country houses in all Austen novels, and especially those

in Pride and Prejudice, are of constant values as each of them is a recognizable emblem for a

complex social, economic, and intellectual realities.

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Nikolaus Pevner states that, despite “the precision in dialogue and imprecision in the description

of setting, there is enough to be got out of the novels to picture the world she and her characters

lived in." (404)

The social groups in Austen's novels encompassed individuals who possessed land, including the

country or landed gentry, as well as professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and clergy, among

others, who enjoyed higher incomes. These individuals were commonly addressed as 'Sir" or

"Lady" if they held titles such as knight or simply as "Mr." and "Mrs." The landed gentry, such

as the Bennets, being the most influential segment of society during the Regency era in England,

aimed to amass wealth and expand their estates by passing down property to male offspring or

male relatives. Alongside the gentry, Jane Austen also introduces characters from the English

nobility, such as Lady Catherine, a hereditary social class positioned directly below the royalty,

consisting of dukes, marquises, earls, viscounts, and barons, all addressed as "Lord" or "Lady."

These characters, hailing from diverse backgrounds, are meticulously situated in settings that

accurately captures the economic, social, or intellectual status, typically through grand residences

referred to as "major houses" or "country estates."

“They returned therefore in good spirits to Longbourn, the village where they lived, and of
which they were the principal inhabitants.” (Austen,3)

The setting of Longbourn serves as the starting point for the narrative in Pride and Prejudice.

Longbourn House, the family estate of Mr Bennet, encompasses a dwelling and a land situated in

the vicinity of the fictitious town of Meryton, nestled in Hertfordshire, a region situated to the

north of London. The residence is filled with noise, disarray, and a slight inclination towards

materialism, mirroring the flighty nature of its matriarch, Mrs. Bennet. Moreover, the
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constrained environment of a household with five daughters signifies the economic standing of

the Bennet family, and various characters in the novel perceive the Bennets based on their

association with this estate. The Longbourn estate serves as the primary backdrop in Pride and

Prejudice, embodying a rural gentry household with modest expectations. Mr. Bennet, a

landowner and gentleman, lacks substantial wealth and seemingly manages his own agricultural

lands. Although he possesses a carriage, his financial means do not permit him to maintain

carriage horses. Most significantly, due to the absence of a male heir, the Longbourn estate and

all its assets are entailed to Mr. Bennet's cousin, Mr. Collins.

“My dear Mr. Bennet,” said his lady to him one day, “have you heard that Netherfield Park is

let at last?”(Austen,1)

The conversation between Mrs Bennet and Mr Bennet in chapter one introduces the significant

location of Netherfield Park.

“Mr. Bingley inherited property to the amount of nearly a hundred thousand pounds from his

father, who had intended to purchase an estate, but did not live to do it” ( Austen,17).

At the outset of the story, the character of Mr. Bingley and his estate, Netherfield, are introduced,

setting the tone for the narrative. Having inherited a substantial sum of money from his late

father, Mr. Bingley decides to rent the estate and make it his country home. He is soon joined by

his two sisters, a brother-in-law, and his close friend, Mr. Darcy. Unlike the enigmatic Mr.

Darcy, Mr. Bingley is a straightforward and amiable man, offering a glimpse into a more secure

and prosperous life. His estate, though not extensively described, serves as a symbol of entry into

the affluent world of Pride and Prejudice.

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The residence of Mr. Bingley, presents the initial occasion for Elizabeth and Darcy to engage

with each other. Upon traversing the damp countryside to pay a visit to a sick Jane at

Netherfield, Elizabeth becomes the target of Miss Bingley's derogatory remarks regarding the

dirt on her petticoat. However, despite this criticism, Darcy observes that the walk has bestowed

a newfound radiance upon Elizabeth's eyes. This marked the first instance where Darcy

displayed an inclination towards Elizabeth.

Elizabeth, who spends a considerable amount of time outdoors during her walks, views people

as a compliment to nature rather than a dominating force that governs the world. Her simple life

in the countryside has shielded her from the power of wealth and higher social status, and she has

never been compelled to submit to it in any way. Upon arriving at Netherfield after walking three

miles, her appearance stands in stark contrast to the opulence and grandeur of the setting, further

emphasizing her natural spirit.

Mr. Collins, who marries Elizabeth's close friend Charlotte, plays a significant role in the

narrative. It is through his character that Elizabeth is led to visit Rosings Park, the grand estate

owned by Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who is Darcy's aunt. Even before the actual visit takes

place, Mr. Collins constantly praises his beloved patroness, thereby establishing the importance

of Rosings in the story. This setting is frequently compared to other locations where Mr. Collins

appears, emphasizing the superiority of Rosings. As a result, the settings of Meryton, Longbourn,

and even Netherfield are portrayed as inferior, along with their respective residents in

comparison to Lady Catherine. The revelation of Darcy's connection to this aristocratic woman

further justifies the negative perception of his arrogant demeanor within the community.
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The initial depiction of Rosings is presented as a picturesque and contemporary structure,

strategically positioned on an elevated terrain, as seen from Hunsford parsonage, Mr Collins, and

Charlotte's modest parish. Darcy's demeanor remains unchanged during his stay at the estate, and

he appears to blend in perfectly with his aunt's aristocratic lifestyle. Rosings park serves as a

symbol of Darcy's social and character disparity, and it represents the most significant imaginary

barrier between him and Elizabeth. The estate's aristocratic origins justify Darcy's sense of

superiority, and their meeting at Rosings park highlights the vast mental distance between them.

Their spiritual connection seems implausible until they reunite at Pemberley.

In the first proposal scene at Hunsford, Darcy, unable to conceal his strong affection any longer,

pays a visit to Elizabeth, who harbors deep contempt and anger towards him. Upon his arrival,

Darcy anxiously paces around the room before commencing his emotional speech. Elizabeth's

negative response to his grandiose performance, which primarily revolves around Darcy's

internal struggle with societal degradation rather than involving her directly. Hunsford serves as

the residence of individuals who essentially serve Darcy's wealthy aunt, Lady Catherine. Lady

Catherine generously bestowed upon Mr. Collins this small estate, creating a sense of obligation

for him and his wife, which they have gratefully acknowledged and consistently praised.

Consequently, Darcy perceives his offer of devotion to Elizabeth as a favor to her. Darcy's

decision to come alone to this less significant and modest setting demonstrates his willingness to

lower himself to Elizabeth's level and accept her, despite her inferior social connections.

Consequently, he anticipates her gratitude and admiration.

The unveiling of Rosings serves to expose Darcy's world, which exists on a completely different

social and economic level than Elizabeth's, highlighting the incompatibility between their

respective perceptions of society.

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The setting of Meryton is in stark contrast to Pemberley, as it represents the lower gentry and

trade people rather than the country gentry. This is emphasized by the fact that Mrs. Bennet's

father was a local attorney and her sister lives in Meryton. The Bennet family's lower

connections are highlighted in this setting, The Gardiners. The Bennet ladies visit Meryton three

or four times a week to pay their duty to their aunt and get well acquainted with several members

of a militia regiment, for which Meryton is the headquarters. Mr. Wickham, who comes to

Meryton as a stranger, can act freely and manipulate ladies who are enchanted by his likeable

personality and charm. His nomadic lifestyle represents a way of escape from their routine

country lives and together with his fellow officers, they make life in Meryton more exciting.

However, with Lydia's elopement, Wickham proves everyone wrong and eventually gives space

for the higher society to step in and use its power for good. The instability of his character and

the militiamen's life in general is emphasized in a setting inhabited by people whose lives are not

completely stable and secured either.

The country setting of Darcy's home, which is finally revealed, holds a significant level of

intrigue and fascination. Throughout the entire novel, this setting is intertwined with Darcy's

character, shedding light on his background, social status, and enigmatic behavior. It is

emphasized that one must first understand Darcy's setting in order to truly comprehend his

essence. This unveiling of his home exposes a complexity within his character, rendering him

unique and deserving of both Elizabeth's and the reader's eventual sympathy.

Pemberley, the estate where Darcy resides, remains distant and elusive, frequently mentioned but

never fully shown. The mere mention of Pemberley adds an air of mystery to Darcy's persona.
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Darcy's unsociable nature is not a universal trait, as he claims, but rather dependent on the

circumstances of different settings. Prior to encountering Pemberley, he chooses not to engage in

social interactions with Elizabeth, even while falling in love with her. He makes no effort to

converse with her during their dances or even before proposing to her. Despite the absence of

personal contact, he expects her to agree to spend the rest of her life with him.

In his domestic environment, he finally perceives Elizabeth as an equal. He is in a place that

allows him to be his authentic self due to its casual nature. In this context, he is able to overlook

their differences and engage in a personal conversation with her. By inviting her to meet his

sister, he is extending an invitation for her to enter his personal life, which demonstrates his

respect and devotion towards her. The social hierarchy of the Gardiners does not concern him,

and he views them as equal companions. The conversations he has with both the Gardiners and

Elizabeth are effortless and revolve around common topics, unlike the conversations he engages

in at Netherfield and Rosings, which are centered on societal norms and expectations. This

contrast in settings allows the reader to gain a deeper understanding of Darcy's character.

Interestingly, the only place where he does not feel the weight of his own estate, Pemberley, is

within the confines of Pemberley itself.

The complexity of Darcy's character is revealed by the fact that Pemberley does not represent his

entire personality in a simplistic manner, the influence of love on Darcy prevents him from being

a one-dimensional character and allows him to remain relatable to Elizabeth, who values his

humanity. As a result, Elizabeth's response to Darcy at Pemberley is not unexpected, as she

encounters a softened yet still susceptible character.

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Elizabeth's association of her affection with Pemberley highlights the interdependence of

character and setting, a fundamental aspect of the structural design of Pride and Prejudice. This

literary technique enables Jane Austen to effectively convey the ironic development of a

benevolent young woman.

“It was a large, handsome stone building, standing well on rising ground, and backed by a ridge

of high woody hills; and in front a stream of some natural importance was swelled into greater,

but without any artificial appearance. Its banks were neither formal nor falsely adorned.

Elizabeth was delighted. She had never seen a place for which nature had done more, or where

natural beauty had been so little counteracted by an awkward taste.” (Austen, 134)

Elizabeth, who visits Pemberley as a guest to an empty house, experiences a change in behavior

due to the influence of her surroundings. Their unexpected encounter in his garden causes

Elizabeth to feel ashamed in his presence for the first time.

“Amazed at the alteration of his manner since they last parted, every sentence that he uttered

was increasing her embarrassment; and every idea of the impropriety of her being found there

recurring to her mind, the few minutes in which they continued together were some of the most

uncomfortable of her life.”(210)

The grandeur of his estate and the change in his demeanor leave her feeling overwhelmed,

causing her to recognize her status as a guest from a much humbler background. She holds

Pemberley in high esteem, just as she now respects Darcy and acknowledges that his initial pride

was perhaps justified by his social standing. When he confesses his love for a second time, she

shares her newfound feelings with a sense of shyness and humility, eagerly anticipating her

return to Pemberley, the place that opened her eyes and heart. It is only at Pemberley that she
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fully surrenders to the allure of a wealthy man who has captured her interest not through

materialistic means, but through the revelation of his true character, which is reflected in the

beauty of his home estate.

Elizabeth finds great joy in engaging in physical activities, and this particular novel is enhanced

by the inclusion of various outdoor locations such as Hertfordshire, Kent, and Derbyshire. These

settings provide Elizabeth with the opportunity to engage in numerous conversations, free from

the confines of indoor spaces. The influence of these external settings on the characters' behavior

can be observed when comparing Darcy's two proposals. Once Elizabeth comprehends the

source of Darcy's pride and gains insight into his true character at Pemberley, her sentiments

begin to align with his. Darcy's character is deeply intertwined with societal norms, making it

difficult for him to relax in an unfamiliar environment. If Darcy had proposed to Elizabeth within

the confines of Longbourn estate, it would have been challenging for him to express himself with

the same level of openness and honesty. The external setting grants him the freedom to be

himself and reinforces the perception of his transformed character, thereby strengthening the

sincerity of his words.

The setting of Pride and Prejudice is marked by the entrance of Mr. Bingley and later Mr. Darcy,

both of whom express their desire to become connected with Jane and Elizabeth, and by

extension, with Longbourn. Even Lady Catherine, the character of the highest rank and power in

the story, degrades herself by coming to prevent her nephew from marrying Elizabeth. The novel

begins by introducing a country family who are united by the walls of their house and suffer

from financial insecurity. It ends in the same place with the same family, now intertwined with

two wealthy men of higher status who ensure its bright future. Jane Austen skillfully utilizes the

attractiveness of her setting to enhance the overall impact of the narrative in Pride and Prejudice.
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Longbourn, the least noble country estate in the novel, serves as a bridge between different social

statuses and highlights the power of love, which overcomes them.

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WORKS CITED

Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. The Harvard Classics Shelf of Fiction. Selected by Charles W.

Elliot. vol. 3, part 2. P.F. Collier & Son, 1917. www.bartleby.com/ebook/adobe/3032.pdf.

McCann, Charles J. “Setting and Character in Pride and Prejudice.” Nineteenth-Century Fiction,
vol. 19, no. 1, 1964, pp. 65–75. JSTOR, https://www.jstor.org/stable/2932788.

Anderson, Walter E. “Plot, Character, Speech, and Place in Pride and Prejudice.” Nineteenth-
Century Fiction, vol. 30, no. 3, 1975, pp. 367–82. JSTOR, https://www.jstor.org/stable/2933075.

Kamencakova, Eva. "The Role OF Setting in Pride and Prejudice." Muni.Cz, 2017,
https://is.muni.cz/th/jzevo/The_Role_of_Settings_in_Pride_and_Prejudice.pdf