How the Wickham-Lydia Affair Affects Darcy-Elizabeth’s Relationship
Pride and Prejudice is a notable literary work by Jane Austen. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Pride and Prejudice.
Answer
Discuss how the Wickham-Lydia affair affects Darcy-Elizabeth’s relationship. [NU. 2019]
The Wickham-Lydia affair is a key event in Jane Austen’s (1775-1817) classic novel “Pride and Prejudice,” published in 1813. It significantly impacts the relationship between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet. This affair highlights the theme of social consequences and character flaws and transforms the dynamics between Darcy and Elizabeth.
Darcy’s Involvement: When Lydia elopes with Wickham, the Bennet family is disgraced. Darcy had previously known about Wickham’s true character. He takes it upon himself to find the couple and ensure they marry. His intervention saves Lydia from social ruin. He also saves Elizabeth’s family from complete disgrace. This act of kindness and selflessness allows Elizabeth to see Darcy in a new light. She starts to soften her opinion of him. Mrs. Reynolds confirms Darcy’s good character by praising himself in such a way,
He is the best landlord, and the best master,
Elizabeth’s Changed Perception: Before the Wickham-Lydia affair, Elizabeth was strongly prejudiced against Darcy. She believes in Wickham’s story of Darcy’s mistreatment. She saw him as arrogant, proud, and unfeeling. However, Darcy saves her family from public shame. Upon reading Darcy’s letter, Elizabeth is forced to reconsider. She begins to realize that her initial judgments were wrong. This event forces her to rethink her negative opinions. She starts to recognize Darcy’s true character and intentions. She says,
Till this moment, I never knew myself.
Darcy’s Feelings: Throughout the novel, it is evident that Darcy is deeply in love with Elizabeth despite her initial rejection of his proposal. The Wickham-Lydia affair serves as a trigger for Darcy to understand the depth of his feelings for her. He realizes that Elizabeth is worth any sacrifice, even if it means risking his reputation. He ensures her family’s well-being. Mr. Darcy expresses his love for Elizabeth. He says,
My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.
Mutual Understanding: The Wickham-Lydia affair is a turning point for Darcy and Elizabeth. It leads to a deeper understanding of each other’s character and motives. Darcy becomes more humble and open about his past mistakes, while Elizabeth learns to be less prejudiced in her judgments. The affair becomes a medium for both characters to grow and mature. This establishes the foundation for a more genuine and meaningful relationship.
Marriage Proposal and Acceptance: At the novel’s end, Darcy proposes to Elizabeth, and she accepts. The Wickham-Lydia affair and its aftermath play a significant role in their eventual union. It leads to a transformation in both characters and helps them overcome their initial prejudices. Elizabeth says Darcy,
If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell me so at once.
In conclusion, the Wickham-Lydia affair significantly affects Darcy and Elizabeth’s relationship in Pride and Prejudice. It transforms their perceptions of each other, encourages personal growth, and ultimately paves the way for mutual love and happiness. The affair serves as a significant event in the development of their romance. This highlights the power of forgiveness, understanding, and true character in overcoming initial prejudices and misunderstandings.