2007年4月4日星期三

New Neighbours (Chapter 1-4)

The opening sentence of Pride and Prejudice—“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife”—establishes the centrality of advantageous marriage, a fundamental social value of Regency England.

The news that a wealthy young gentleman named Charles Bingley has rented the manor known as Netherfield Park causes a great stir in the neighboring village of Longbourn, especially in the Bennet household. Mrs. Bennet insists that they should have a visit to their new neighbor. When Mr Bennet reveals to his wife and daughters that he has made the new neighbor’s acquaintance, they are overjoyed and excited.

In the beginning of the ball, when an eye contact happens between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, love seems appear, which may be winding. Within Elizabeth’s hearing, Bingley exclaims to Darcy that Jane is "the most beautiful creature" he has ever beheld. He also suggests that Darcy dance with Elizabeth. However, Darcy refuses, saying, "she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me." He proceeds to declare that he has no interest in women who are "slighted by other men". Hearing that, Elizabeth developes an immediate and understandable disliking to Darcy. She regards him as an arrogant and uneasy-going man. Their first impression to each other is not very well.

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